Ticks are small insects that feed off the blood of living animals. They live in tall grasses and will jump onto an unsuspecting cat without being noticed. They only feed for a few days before leaving the host, but can cause physiological reactions or spread disease.
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Visible Tick
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The most obvious way to tell if your cat has been bitten is by observing the tick on the cat. If you see a tick walking on the cat's fur or inside the house, it has likely bitten the cat.
Cat Behavior
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Cats that have been bitten may spend a lot of time grooming the affected area. Obsessive grooming in one location may be an indicator of a tick.
Allergic Reaction
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Some cats have severe skin reactions to ticks. The skin can become red or a hot spot may develop.
Health Changes
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Cats may contract diseases from ticks. Some symptoms of a tick-related disease include lethargy, loss of appetite, lack of energy, dizziness, fever or swelling of the limbs.
Tick Removal
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Ticks should be removed as soon as possible. This may prevent skin problems or disease in your cat.
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