What should I do if there is a tick under the skin of a cat? - briefly
Secure the cat, locate the embedded tick, and grasp it with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible. Pull upward with steady pressure, disinfect the site, and monitor for signs of infection.
What should I do if there is a tick under the skin of a cat? - in detail
When a tick has penetrated the skin of a cat, prompt and careful removal is essential to reduce the risk of infection and disease transmission.
First, restrain the animal gently but securely. Use a towel or a cat‑specific restraining bag to limit movement while keeping the cat calm. Inspect the area closely, preferably with a magnifying lens, to locate the tick’s head and mouthparts.
To extract the parasite, follow these steps:
- Choose fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible, holding the mouthparts, not the body, to avoid crushing it.
- Apply steady, upward pressure. Pull straight out without twisting or jerking, which could leave mouthparts embedded.
- Place the tick in a sealed container with alcohol for proper disposal or keep it for identification if recommended by a veterinarian.
After removal, cleanse the bite site with a mild antiseptic solution such as chlorhexidine or povidone‑iodine. Observe the wound for signs of redness, swelling, or discharge over the next 24–48 hours. If any of these symptoms appear, contact a veterinary professional promptly.
Consider the following additional measures:
- Monitor the cat’s temperature and behavior for fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or joint pain, which may indicate tick‑borne illness.
- Schedule a veterinary examination if the tick was attached for more than 24 hours, if the cat shows systemic signs, or if you are uncertain about complete removal.
- Discuss prophylactic treatments with the veterinarian, such as topical acaricides, oral preventatives, or collars, to lower future infestation risk.
- Maintain a regular grooming routine, especially after outdoor excursions, to detect and remove ticks early.
Document the date of removal, the tick’s approximate size, and any observed symptoms. This record assists the veterinarian in diagnosing potential infections and deciding on appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics or supportive care.