What should you do if a cat is found to have a tick? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure, then disinfect the bite site and wash your hands. Monitor the cat for irritation or illness and contact a veterinarian if any abnormal signs develop.
What should you do if a cat is found to have a tick? - in detail
If you discover a tick attached to your cat, act promptly to minimize the risk of disease transmission.
First, restrain the animal gently but firmly. Use a towel or a cat‑carrier to prevent sudden movements that could cause the tick to embed deeper.
Next, gather the necessary tools: fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal device, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a clean container for the specimen. Disinfect the removal instrument before use.
Proceed with removal:
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, holding the mouthparts, not the body.
- Apply steady, even pressure to pull straight upward. Avoid twisting or crushing the tick, which can leave mouthparts embedded.
- Release the tick into the container, then dispose of it by submerging in alcohol or sealing in a plastic bag and discarding in the trash.
After extraction, cleanse the bite site with antiseptic and monitor for redness, swelling, or discharge. Record the date of removal and, if feasible, retain the tick for identification.
Contact a veterinarian within 24 hours, especially if the cat shows signs of fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or joint pain. The veterinarian may recommend a blood test for tick‑borne pathogens such as Bartonella, Anaplasma, or Babesia, and may prescribe prophylactic medication.
Implement preventive measures to reduce future infestations:
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral ectoparasiticide according to the recommended schedule.
- Inspect the cat’s coat daily, focusing on the neck, ears, and base of the tail.
- Maintain a tidy indoor environment; vacuum regularly and keep grass or shrubs trimmed around the home.
By following these steps, you lower the likelihood of complications and protect your cat’s health.