We found a tick on a cat; what should we do? - briefly
Remove the tick using fine‑pointed tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight out without twisting; then clean the bite site and observe the cat for any signs of illness. Contact a veterinarian promptly for advice on monitoring, possible preventive medication, and further treatment.
We found a tick on a cat; what should we do? - in detail
A tick attached to a cat requires prompt removal to reduce the risk of disease transmission.
First, prepare the tools: fine‑pointed tweezers or a dedicated tick‑removal device, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a container with a lid for the specimen.
- Secure the cat – gently restrain the animal, preferably with another person assisting, to prevent sudden movements.
- Expose the tick – part the fur around the attachment site using a comb or your fingers while wearing gloves.
- Grasp the tick – hold the tick as close to the skin as possible, targeting the head or mouthparts, without squeezing the body.
- Apply steady traction – pull upward with even force, avoiding twisting or jerking motions. The tick should detach cleanly.
- Dispose of the tick – place it in the sealed container; you may keep it for identification if the cat later shows symptoms.
- Disinfect the bite area – cleanse with antiseptic and monitor for redness or swelling.
After removal, observe the cat for at least two weeks. Signs that warrant veterinary attention include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, joint pain, or any unusual behavior.
Preventive measures: administer a veterinarian‑approved ectoparasite product regularly, keep the cat indoors when possible, and inspect the animal’s coat after outdoor excursions.
If the cat shows any health changes or if the tick could not be removed completely, contact a veterinarian immediately for evaluation and possible treatment.