What should I do if a cat still has a tick? - briefly
Remove the attached tick using fine‑point tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight out; then clean the bite site with antiseptic and observe the cat for irritation or illness. If any swelling, redness, or abnormal behavior occurs, seek veterinary care promptly.
What should I do if a cat still has a tick? - in detail
If a cat retains a tick after an initial check, act promptly to avoid disease transmission.
First, isolate the animal in a safe area to prevent escape. Use fine‑pointed tweezers or a dedicated tick removal tool; grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding squeezing the body. Pull upward with steady, even pressure until the head separates from the skin. Do not twist or jerk, which can leave mouthparts embedded.
After removal, place the tick in a sealed container with alcohol for identification if needed. Clean the bite site with a mild antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine) and monitor for swelling or redness. Observe the cat for at least 24 hours; any signs of fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or unusual behavior warrant immediate veterinary attention.
If the tick was attached for more than 24 hours, consider a prophylactic treatment. Discuss with a veterinarian the appropriate antiparasitic medication—oral or topical formulations such as selamectin, sarolaner, or a spot‑on product. The vet may also recommend a blood test to screen for tick‑borne pathogens like Bartonella, Ehrlichia, or Anaplasma.
Maintain a regular grooming schedule to spot additional parasites early. Trim long fur in areas prone to attachment (ears, neck, abdomen) and use a flea‑tick comb during routine checks. Apply a veterinarian‑approved preventive on a monthly basis, especially during peak tick season.
Finally, keep the home environment tick‑free. Treat outdoor spaces with appropriate acaricides, clear tall grass, and limit the cat’s exposure to known tick habitats. Consistent preventive measures combined with swift removal dramatically reduce health risks associated with lingering ticks.