What should be done with a cat that has been bitten by a tick? - briefly
Remove the tick with fine-tipped tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight outward, then disinfect the bite site and watch for signs of infection or illness. Contact a veterinarian promptly for evaluation and possible preventive treatment.
What should be done with a cat that has been bitten by a tick? - in detail
When a tick attaches to a cat, act promptly. First, locate the parasite by feeling along the fur and skin, especially around the head, neck, ears, and between toes. Use fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool; grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or squeezing the body, which can leave mouthparts embedded and increase infection risk.
After removal, cleanse the bite site with a mild antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine or diluted povidone‑iodine. Pat the area dry with a clean gauze pad. Observe the wound for signs of inflammation, swelling, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours.
Schedule a veterinary examination within 24 hours. The veterinarian will:
- Assess the bite for secondary bacterial infection or tick‑borne disease transmission.
- Perform blood tests if the tick species is known to carry pathogens such as Bartonella, Anaplasma, or Ehrlichia.
- Administer appropriate antibiotics or antiparasitic medication if indicated.
- Update the cat’s preventative regimen, recommending monthly ectoparasite control products (topical, oral, or collar formulations) to reduce future infestations.
Maintain a record of the tick’s appearance, including size, color, and any visible markings, and provide this information to the vet. This assists in identifying the species and estimating the attachment duration, both critical for evaluating disease risk.
Continue monitoring the bite site for at least two weeks. If redness expands, the cat develops fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or joint pain, contact the veterinarian immediately. Early detection of tick‑borne illnesses improves treatment outcomes.
Preventive measures include regular grooming, checking outdoor cats after each excursion, and keeping the environment free of tall grass and leaf litter where ticks thrive. Using veterinarian‑approved tick preventatives year‑round eliminates most exposure opportunities.