What is a subcutaneous tick in a cat? - briefly
A subcutaneous tick is a parasite that inserts its mouthparts beneath a cat’s skin, producing a localized swelling rather than a visible attached insect. It may cause irritation, anemia, and transmit disease, so veterinary removal is recommended.
What is a subcutaneous tick in a cat? - in detail
A subcutaneous tick in a feline is a parasite that embeds its mouthparts beneath the skin, leaving only a small, often invisible, swelling. The adult tick remains alive, feeding on blood while the host’s immune response may create a granuloma around the attachment site.
Typical signs include localized swelling, a firm nodule, occasional itching, and occasional bleeding if the tick is disturbed. Systemic effects can involve anemia, fever, lethargy, or transmission of pathogens such as Bartonella or Rickettsia species.
Detection relies on careful physical examination:
- Palpation of the entire body, focusing on the neck, back, and limbs.
- Visual inspection for raised, firm lesions.
- Use of a fine‑pointed needle or a magnifying lens to confirm the presence of a tick body beneath the skin.
Removal procedure:
- Apply a warm compress for several minutes to dilate blood vessels.
- Sterilize a pair of fine tweezers or a dedicated tick removal tool.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding crushing the body.
- Pull steadily and evenly until the tick is extracted completely.
- Disinfect the wound with a veterinary‑approved antiseptic.
- Monitor the site for signs of infection or persistent swelling; consult a veterinarian if the nodule does not regress within a few days.
Potential complications:
- Secondary bacterial infection of the granuloma.
- Persistent inflammation if mouthparts remain embedded.
- Transmission of tick‑borne diseases, which may require specific antimicrobial therapy.
Preventive measures:
- Routine administration of acaricidal collars, spot‑on treatments, or oral preventatives approved for cats.
- Regular grooming and inspection, especially after outdoor exposure.
- Maintaining a tidy environment to reduce tick habitats, such as tall grass and leaf litter.
Prompt identification and proper removal significantly reduce health risks associated with subcutaneous ticks in cats. Regular veterinary check‑ups ensure early detection of any disease transmitted by these hidden parasites.