Ticks can be harmful to cats and should be removed as soon as possible. There are several methods to kill ticks on cats, including:
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Medicated Shampoo: Bathing your cat with a shampoo that contains medicated ingredients will generally kill ticks on contact. This can be an inexpensive method of protecting your cat during the peak tick season. You will also need to repeat the process more often, about every two weeks, as the effective ingredients won’t last as long as a spot-on or oral medication.
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Tick Dips: Tick dips are another method of topical medication. They are an effective method for killing and repelling ticks from your pet. Be sure that the dip you are using is labeled for cats before use. Also, make sure you check the label to make sure that the product is designed to kill ticks as well as fleas. This very fine powder can be an irritant to the mouth or lungs if inhaled, so use small amounts and slowly rub it into the skin. Keep dips away from the face and eyes when applying.
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Tick Powders: Another method of topical medication, tick powders are an effective method for killing and repelling ticks from your pet. Be sure that the powder you are using is labeled for cats before use. Also, make sure you check the label to make sure that the product is designed to kill ticks as well as fleas. This very fine powder can be an irritant to the mouth or lungs if inhaled, so use small amounts and slowly rub it into the skin. Keep powders away from the face and eyes when applying.
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Tick Spray: Tick spray kills ticks quickly and provides residual protection. Sprays can be used in between shampoos and dips, and they can be useful if your cat spends significant time in wooded areas. Be very careful when using this product around your cat’s face. Read labels carefully to be sure the spray is made for use on cats before applying, and do not use it on or around any other animals in the home.
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Apple Cider Vinegar: You can use apple cider vinegar to remove and kill ticks on your cat. Mix it with some water and neem oil and apply.
It is important to note that if you find a tick on your cats body, remove it immediately (while wearing gloves). The best way to do this is to grasp the tick at the skin line with a pair of forceps or tweezers. Try to grasp the tick by the head and pull gently and steadily straight out from the cats body. Physical removal is the way to go.