Finding a tick on your pet can be unsettling. Ticks can spread diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis and anaplasmosis, so removing them quickly and correctly is important. The good news is that tick removal is simple once you know how. Here’s a step-by-step guide to removing a tick from a dog or cat safely.
Ticks need time to feed before they spread many diseases. Removing them as soon as possible lowers the risk. Our guide to heartworm, fleas and ticks explains how to prevent ticks in the first place.
Tick removal tools often have a small notch. Slide the notch under the tick, close to the skin, and gently lift or twist as the tool’s instructions direct.
Sometimes small mouthparts stay in the skin. Don’t dig them out, as this can cause irritation or infection. Clean the area and let the body push them out naturally. Call your vet if the area becomes red, swollen or painful.
Some pet parents keep the tick in a sealed bag with the date, in case their pet gets sick later.
Don’t use:
These methods don’t work well and can cause the tick to release more saliva into your pet. Some essential oils are toxic to pets. Our article on whether essential oils are safe for pets explains why.
The steps are the same, but cats can be harder to hold still. Wrap your cat in a towel, and ask a helper to keep them calm. Never use dog tick products on cats, since some are toxic to them.
Tick-borne diseases can take days to weeks to show signs. Watch for:
Our article on signs your dog is in pain can help you spot subtle changes.
After walks in wooded or grassy areas, run your hands over your pet’s whole body. Check inside ears, around the eyes, between toes, under the collar, in the armpits and around the tail.
A tick tool works well. Avoid using your fingers, which can squeeze the tick.
Not always, but call your vet if you see signs of illness or skin infection.
Talk to a licensed vet 24/7, even on holidays, by chat, voice call or video call. Your first month is free with code FREEMONTH, then US $9.99/month, at NYPTeleVet.com. One membership covers up to 6 pets, and you can cancel anytime.
Our vets can’t prescribe medication, but they’ll tell you what’s likely needed and when an in-person visit is the next step.
⚠️ Disclaimer: NYP TeleVet is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. For emergencies (trouble breathing, seizures, severe bleeding, collapse), go to the nearest veterinary clinic immediately.
🚫 Currently not available in Hong Kong.
Not sure what to do next? Ask a vet now.
