What to do if a cat has a tick under the skin? - briefly
Use fine‑pointed tweezers to grasp the embedded tick as close to the cat’s skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure; then disinfect the area and monitor for redness or irritation. If any adverse reaction occurs, contact a veterinarian promptly.
What to do if a cat has a tick under the skin? - in detail
When a feline host harbors a tick that has penetrated beneath the skin surface, immediate and careful action is required to prevent infection and disease transmission.
First, locate the parasite. Part the fur with a fine-tooth comb or a blunt-ended tweezers, exposing the attached tick. Observe the body for a visible bulge or a small, dark spot surrounded by a raised ring of skin.
Second, gather proper tools: fine-tipped, non‑toothed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal device, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine), and a clean container with a lid for the specimen.
Third, execute removal:
- Grip the tick as close to the skin as possible, grasping the head or mouthparts, not the abdomen.
- Apply steady, gentle traction; avoid twisting or jerking motions that could break the mouthparts.
- Continue pulling until the entire organism separates from the host.
- Place the tick in the container, label with date and location for possible veterinary analysis.
Fourth, treat the bite site. Clean the area with antiseptic, then apply a mild topical antibiotic ointment if the skin appears irritated. Monitor for signs of inflammation, swelling, or discharge over the next 24‑48 hours.
Fifth, assess the need for professional care. Seek veterinary assistance if:
- The tick’s mouthparts remain embedded.
- The cat shows lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, or abnormal behavior.
- The bite area becomes markedly red, swollen, or ulcerated.
- The cat has known exposure to tick‑borne diseases (e.g., Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis).
Sixth, implement preventive measures. Use a veterinarian‑approved tick collar, spot‑on treatment, or oral medication on a regular schedule. Inspect the cat’s coat after outdoor excursions, especially in wooded or grassy environments, and maintain a clean yard to reduce tick habitats.
By following these steps, owners can safely eliminate an embedded tick, minimize health risks, and establish a routine that lowers future infestations.