What treatment should be used for ticks on cats? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑prescribed feline‑approved acaricide, such as a topical (e.g., selamectin) or oral medication (e.g., fluralaner or sarolaner). Do not apply dog products and follow the vet’s dosage and safety instructions.
What treatment should be used for ticks on cats? - in detail
Ticks attach to the skin, feed on blood, and can transmit pathogens such as Bartonella and Rickettsia. Immediate removal reduces the risk of disease transmission. Use fine‑pointed tweezers or a tick‑removal tool: grasp the tick close to the skin, pull upward with steady pressure, avoid squeezing the abdomen. After removal, clean the area with mild antiseptic and monitor for signs of irritation or infection.
Effective control options include:
- Topical spot‑on products – applied to the neck or between the shoulder blades, these formulations contain acaricides (e.g., fipronil, selamectin, imidacloprid) that spread across the skin coat and kill attached ticks and prevent new infestations for up to 30 days. Follow the label dosage based on the cat’s weight; do not apply to kittens under the minimum weight specified.
- Oral acaricidal tablets – contain isoxazoline compounds (e.g., fluralaner, afoxolaner) that provide systemic protection for 12 weeks. Administer with food, ensure accurate weight measurement, and observe for vomiting or neurological signs. Prescription from a veterinarian is required.
- Tick collars – impregnated with deltamethrin or imidacloprid, these devices release active ingredients continuously for several months. Verify that the collar fits snugly but allows movement; replace when the efficacy period expires.
- Environmental measures – vacuum carpets, upholstery, and bedding daily; wash pet bedding in hot water; treat indoor areas with a reputable insecticide labeled for tick control; maintain a trimmed lawn and clear leaf litter to reduce outdoor tick habitats.
When selecting a product, consider the cat’s health status. Contraindications include:
- Pregnant or lactating queens – avoid systemic oral medications unless a veterinarian explicitly approves.
- Cats with liver or kidney disease – reduce dosage or choose a topical option with minimal systemic absorption.
- Allergic skin conditions – prefer oral treatments to prevent topical irritation.
Veterinary consultation is essential before initiating any regimen. A professional can confirm species identification, assess for co‑infections, and recommend a schedule that aligns with regional tick activity peaks. Regular re‑examination after treatment ensures that no live ticks remain and that the chosen method maintains efficacy.