Natural Method for Feline Tick Removal

Your cat can pick up a tick even if he's outdoors only a short while, and even if he doesn't leave your yard. A tick attaches itself to the cat's skin, just as it would do to a dog or human. Because ticks are common carriers of diseases that can affect cats, you should remove a tick from your cat as soon as you notice it.

  1. Methods to Avoid

    • Forget the old wives' tale tick removal methods you've probably heard about. It's not a good idea to pull a tick off with your fingers or to twist the tick either clockwise or counter-clockwise. You'll most likely break the tick's body off and leave the head in the cat's skin, and this action may release harmful bacteria onto your hands. Additionally, don't bother applying lighter fluid, nail polish, petroleum jelly or a match that was just blown out. These substances don't encourage the tick to let go, and may agitate the tick enough to release fluids into the wound.

    Removing the Tick

    • Two tools are beneficial for removing ticks. One is a blunt-tipped tweezers, and the other a tick removal device available in pet stores. You might want to wear a pair of latex gloves, although that's not necessary if you don't touch the tick. Grab the tick by the head with the tool, or as close to the head as possible, but don't squeeze it. Pull the tick directly backward in one slow motion. You can kill the tick by placing it in a jar of rubbing alcohol, or keep it in a plastic bag in the freezer if you think you might bring it to your cat's veterinarian for testing. Pour a disinfectant solution over the tweezers or tick removal device, and then wash your hands with soap and water.

    After-Care

    • Clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol, antibiotic ointment or some other antiseptic. Keep an eye on the bite area for the next several days, and if it does not heal or worsens, make an appointment with your cat's vet. If part of the head or mouth is still stuck in your cat's skin, it most likely will be dislodged by the feline natural body processes.