What is a Tick?
A tick is a parasite that attacks animals and humans. By inserting its head under the host’s skin, it feeds on their blood. This parasite can transmit various potentially serious diseases. Ticks in cats commonly attach themselves to the neck, back, and head but can latch onto any area.
How Do Cats Get Infested?
Ticks attach to their host in different ways:
- Climbing up from the ground.
- Dropping from tall grasses when sensing vibrations from nearby animals.
They remain attached for 3 to 14 days before detaching once full. Migratory birds also significantly contribute to their spread, especially from the United States.
Tick-Borne Diseases in Cats
Ticks in cats can carry microorganisms responsible for serious diseases. The most common include:
- Cytauxzoonosis: Caused by Cytauxzoon felis, potentially fatal.
- Tularemia: Caused by Francisella tularensis, transmissible to humans.
- Lyme disease: Caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, more common in dogs but can affect cats too.
How to Remove a Tick?
To remove a tick effectively, it’s recommended to use a tick remover like Deticker®, a small plastic tool shaped like a crowbar. Follow these steps:
- Insert the tool between the tick and the skin.
- Gently rotate until the tick detaches without leaving mouthparts behind.
- Carefully clean the area after removal.
⚠️ Important precaution: Always wear gloves when handling ticks to avoid direct skin contact.
How to Prevent Ticks in Cats?
The best protection for your pet is preventive treatment from spring through autumn. These products effectively prevent infestations and reduce disease transmission risks.
For more information about ticks and suitable solutions for your pet, contact our veterinary team!
