Many people wonder if cats get ticks, and the answer is yes. Felines are also exposed to this type of problem, even if it seems strange. Cat ticks are more common in animals that live in a house with a yard, that walk on the street or that live with a small dog. However, other everyday situations can also leave the cat with a tick, such as a trip to the vet or a trip to the bathroom.a simple trip on the street (even if the kitty stays in the transport box all the time). Therefore, every guardian should know how to identify the problem and how to remove ticks from cats. See below for some tips to remove and prevent unwanted parasites!

Cat with tick: what signs indicate the problem?

One of the first signs that a cat has a tick is when it starts scratching itself more than usual, showing that it is bothered by the presence of the foreign body stuck to them. As felines are very sensitive animals, anything that bothers them can make them extremely irritated - and this is exactly what happens when the tick gets on a cat. In addition, the place canhave redness or hair loss due to excessive itching.

Ticks have a brownish color and are easily recognizable. When ticks attach to cats, the most likely places for them to stick are behind the ear and around the neck. So the easiest way to tell if your kitten is infected is during cuddle time or while brushing. At these times, keep an eye out for any dark shadows or little balls that look likewith warts, because it can be a tick on a cat.

The types of ticks in cats

When it comes to ticks, cats can be affected by different species. In more rural environments or with a lot of bushes around, the most common is Amblyomma cajennense, also known as the star tick in cats. The parasite is one of the main transmitters of spotted fever and is therefore considered very dangerous. In addition to it, the red dog tick is also another type of tick in cats.As the name implies, this is a parasite that is quite common in dogs but can also affect cats (albeit to a lesser extent). It causes tick-borne disease.

"Does a cat tick get on a human?" The answer is yes. Every parasite has its "preferred" host, but in the absence of a host, a tick can attach itself to the skin of another living being to feed, including humans. Although it is rare, it is important to be vigilant so as not to contract diseases.

Tick-borne disease in cats: what is it and what are the symptoms?

Tick-borne disease in cats can manifest itself in two ways: Ehrlichiosis, which is caused by the bacterium Ehrlichia Canis; or Babesiosis, which is caused by the protozoan Babesia Canis. Both have very similar symptoms and can only be identified by blood testing, but some signs that may indicate the problem are:

• Pale mucous membranes
• Lack of appetite
• Weight loss
• Apathy
• Vomit
• Petechiae (red dots scattered over the body)
• Nasal bleeding

If you notice the symptoms of tick-borne disease in cats, it is best to seek the help of a trusted veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.

How to remove tick from cat?

Unlike fleas, cat ticks are slower moving and easier to remove. If you suspect a problem, it is best to separate some items that can help remove them, such as:

• Brush to be able to see the cat's skin during brushing;
• Specific tweezers for tick removal (if you don't have them, you can use a regular one);
• Absorbent cotton soaked in alcohol.

When it comes to removing cat ticks, just follow the step-by-step instructions:

1. Choose a quiet time for your pet when they are calm and relaxed.
2. Locate the area where the cat has ticks.
3. Take tweezers and slide one of the parts under the cat tick to detach it.
4. Very carefully pull the tweezers to remove it.
5. Use absorbent cotton to clean the area very well.

When removing the tick, care must be taken to pull out the entire parasite. With the use of common tweezers, it is common to leave some part - especially the fangs - stuck to the animal's skin - which can cause infections and even new infestations.

Another option is to use a home remedy for ticks in cats, especially for those who have a feline with sensitivity. Learn how to eliminate ticks naturally:

Ingredients

• 200 ml white vinegar;
• ¼ cup warm water;
• ½ teaspoon of salt;
• ½ teaspoon baking soda

How to prepare and how to use

1. Mix all the ingredients in a spray bottle and apply to the animal. Pay more attention to the hottest areas such as the neck and behind the ears.
2. Beware of areas that are bruised, the mixture may sting and irritate your pet.

It is necessary to get rid of cat ticks in the yard and indoors

The great danger of a cat with a tick is that, if there is no proper cleaning of the environment in which the cat lives, the chances of a new infestation are high. To prevent this from happening, it is necessary to take special care when it comes to getting rid of cat ticks in the yard and indoors. In addition to insecticidal products found in specialized stores, you can also make your own.homemade recipes to eliminate pests from the site.

• Apple cider vinegar and baking soda

Just mix two cups of apple cider vinegar with one cup of warm water and add half a spoonful of baking soda. Then just put it in the spray and spray it in the room.

• Clove

There are two options: apply the cloves directly to the desired location or boil the spice with a citrus fruit and apply to the house with a spray bottle.

• Lemon and citrus fruits

Just heat two cups of water and then put two lemons cut in half for an hour. You can use any other citrus fruit instead. Finally, just put the liquid in the spray.

5 tips to prevent cat ticks

If you've seen pictures of small ticks and are worried that your pet might be infected, prevention is the best medicine. From small daily care to the use of vet-prescribed medications, here's how to prevent your cat from being infested with the parasites:

1. Don't let your cat run around outside. Indoor rearing is the safest for him.
2. If you have a dog in the same house, keep it tick-free by using the right medication.
3. Talk to your veterinarian about the best tick remedy for cats.
4. Keep the house clean at all times.
5. Whenever you go outside, when you come back, check to make sure there are no ticks. Removing the first one early on is the best way to prevent an infestation from occurring.

Originally published on: 12/09/2019

Updated on: 23/08/2021