Ticks in dogs and cats: how to spot them, remove them and protect your pet
Ticks are very common external parasites in dogs and cats. They are found mainly from spring to fall, but can be present all year round when temperatures are mild.
Beyond their alarming appearance, ticks can transmit certain diseases. It is therefore important to remove them quickly and to protect your companion regularly.
What is a tick?
A tick is a parasitic mite that feeds on animals' blood. Unlike fleas, it neither jumps nor flies.
It simply waits for an animal to pass through grass, bushes or undergrowth, then clings to its coat before looking for a patch of skin to attach to.
After several days of feeding on blood, it drops off by itself.
Where are ticks found?
Ticks are particularly fond of:
- tall grass;
- undergrowth;
- forests;
- hedges;
- some gardens;
- country paths.
Even an animal living mainly in town can bring them back after a walk in a park or green space.
How do you recognize a tick?
Before feeding, a tick is small, flat and dark brown.
After several hours or days attached to the animal, it gradually swells until it forms a small grayish or light brown ball stuck to the skin.
They are often found:
- around the ears;
- on the head;
- on the neck;
- between the toes;
- in the armpits;
- on the belly.
What are the symptoms?
Most of the time, a tick causes few symptoms.
You may, however, notice:
- a small ball attached to the skin;
- slight redness;
- localized itching;
- licking or scratching of the area.
After removal, a small scab may remain for a few days.
What are the risks?
Not all ticks transmit diseases, but some can carry infectious agents.
In dogs, they can transmit certain vector-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis or babesiosis, depending on the region.
In cats, these diseases are much rarer, but a tick can still cause local irritation or an infection at the bite site.
How do you remove a tick?
It is best to use a tick remover, available from pharmacies, vets or pet stores.
The method is simple:
- slide the hook under the tick;
- twist gently until it comes away;
- then disinfect the area.
Avoid:
- pulling sharply;
- using tweezers if you risk crushing the tick;
- applying alcohol, ether, oil or any other product before removal. These methods can encourage the release of irritating substances or infectious agents.
Should you see a vet?
A consultation is recommended if:
- the tick cannot be removed properly;
- the skin becomes very red or swollen;
- your pet shows fever, lethargy, loss of appetite or lameness in the days or weeks following a bite.
These signs don't necessarily mean that a disease has been transmitted, but they do justify a veterinary examination.
How can you protect your dog or cat?
Several options exist:
- spot-on treatments;
- tablets;
- antiparasitic collars;
- sprays.
The choice depends on your pet, its lifestyle and your vet's recommendations.
After every walk in the countryside, in the woods or in tall grass, take a few minutes to check your companion's coat.
Key points
Ticks are common, and it is normal for a dog or cat to pick one up from time to time, even when well cared for.
The main thing is to:
- remove ticks quickly;
- keep an eye on the bite site;
- protect your pet regularly with a suitable treatment;
- see your vet if any unusual symptoms appear.
Good to know
A tick generally has to stay attached for several hours before it can transmit certain diseases. The sooner it is removed, the lower the risk of transmission. That is why checking the coat after every walk is a simple habit that can make all the difference.
Read also
To protect your companion effectively against parasites, see also our guides on fleas and worms in dogs and cats. Regular prevention helps limit many risks to their health.