Ticks are small parasites that feed on blood and can attach themselves to our cats while they are exploring outdoors. If not promptly removed, ticks can transmit serious diseases.
These parasites are commonly found in woodland and grassy areas, but they can also be present in your garden if you live in proximity to deer or sheep. Cats can pick up ticks at any time of the year while outside, although they are more prevalent between spring and autumn.
How to recognise a tick on your cat
If your cat spends a lot of time outdoors, it's important to regularly check them for ticks. Run your hand over your cat's body and feel for any unusual lumps or bumps. When you come across a tick, it will feel like a small lump initially.
Ticks come in various sizes, ranging from as tiny as a millimeter to as long as a centimeter. Before feeding, they have a white body, but after feeding, they darken in color and significantly increase in size.
How to remove a tick from your cat
When it comes to removing ticks from your pet, it's crucial to proceed with caution. Ensure that you remove the entire tick, as sometimes the head can be left behind, leading to potential infection.
Avoid squeezing the tick's body, as this can force blood back into your cat and increase the risk of disease transmission.
To effectively remove a tick from your cat:
- Use a tick removal tool specifically designed for this purpose. These tools are available at most pet shops and can help ensure the complete removal of the tick from your cat.
- Slide the tool under the tick, getting as close to your cat's skin as possible to ensure you have a firm grip on the entire tick.
- Twist the tick out gently instead of pulling or squeezing it, as twisting is more likely to result in the complete removal of the tick.
- After a few twists, the tick should release its grip on your pet, allowing you to dispose of it safely.
If you are uncertain about removing a tick yourself, it is best to contact your veterinarian, who can assist you in the proper removal of the tick.
How to prevent cats getting ticks
While ticks are less common on cats, if you live in an area where there are lots of ticks, you should regularly treat your cat with a tick treatment from your vet. This will help to prevent ticks from latching on to your cat as it will kill them when they do.
Can humans get ticks from cats?
Ticks can also affect humans, so it's crucial to handle them properly when removing them from your cat. Even though ticks cannot survive as long on humans, they can still attach and feed on us. If a tick carries the bacteria causing Lyme disease, humans can be at risk of contracting the disease.
Therefore, it is essential to follow appropriate tick removal procedures and take precautions to minimize the risk of tick-borne diseases.
