Ticks on cats in the UK: how to spot them, remove them safely, and when to call the vet

​It’s one of those pet-owner moments that can turn your stomach a bit: you’re stroking your cat and feel a small, firm bump you don’t remember being there.

In the UK, ticks are most common when cats spend time outdoors in long grass, woodland edges, gardens and parkland. Most of the time a tick can be removed safely at home — but it’s important to know what you’re looking at, how to remove it properly, and when it’s safer to let a vet handle it.

This guide covers how to spot ticks on cats, how to remove them calmly and safely, what to do afterwards, and the signs that mean it’s time to call your vet.

​On this page

What are ticks (and why do cats get them)?
How to spot ticks on cats
How to remove a tick from a cat safely
What to do after you remove the tick
When to call the vet (and when to go urgently)How to prevent ticks on cats in the UK

1. Key takeaways (a simple checklist)

What are ticks (and why do cats get them)?

Ticks are small parasites that attach to animals (and sometimes people) to feed on blood. They’re not insects — they’re more closely related to spiders.

Cats pick up ticks by brushing past vegetation where ticks are waiting. Outdoor cats that explore hedgerows, fields and gardens are most at risk, but ticks can occasionally hitch a ride into the home on other pets or clothing.

If you’d like a general overview for all pets, you may also find our guide on how to spot and remove ticks on pets helpful.

Why does this matter for UK cat owners?

A tick bite can irritate the skin, and sometimes a small lump or scab can remain for a while after removal. The bigger concern is that ticks can carry infections.

Most cats will be absolutely fine after a tick is removed — but knowing what’s normal and what’s not helps you act quickly if anything seems off.

For additional welfare advice, you can read the RSPCA’s guidance on ticks on dogs and cats and Blue Cross advice on cats and ticks.

How to spot ticks on cats

Ticks can be tiny before they feed, and larger and darker once they’ve been attached for a while. They often feel like a small, rounded bump on the skin.

Common places ticks hide

When checking for ticks on cats, focus on warm, protected areas:

1. Around the head and neck (especially under the collar area)
2. In and around the ears
3. Under the chin
4. Under the front legs (armpit area)
5. Along the back and flanks
6. Around the tail base
7. Between toes and paw pads (less common, but worth checking)

Quick “tick check” routine (30 seconds)

If your cat goes outdoors, a simple routine after they come in can help:

1. Run your fingertips slowly through the fur, feeling for any new bumps
2. Check around the ears and under the chin
3. Part the fur over any lump to see what you’re dealing with

NOTE

A tick can look a bit like a small skin tag or a wart at first glance. If you’re unsure, take a clear photo and call your vet for advice before trying to remove it.

How to remove a tick from a cat safely

If your cat is calm and you can clearly see the tick, many owners can remove it safely at home.

Before you start, it’s worth reading our step-by-step guide on how to remove a tick safely and making sure you have the right tool.

What you’ll need

1. A tick remover tool (a small “hook” or “twister” designed for ticks)
2. Gloves (optional, but a good idea)
3. Some treats (to help your cat stay relaxed)
4. A small container or tissue to dispose of the tick

Safe tick removal steps

1. Keep your cat still and comfortable (a second person can help gently hold them)
2. Part the fur so you can see where the tick is attached
3. Slide the tick remover tool under the tick, close to the skin
4. Follow the tool instructions (usually a slow twist or gentle lift) until the tick releases
5. Check the area for any remaining mouthparts (don’t panic if you can’t tell — your vet can check)
6. Dispose of the tick safely (wrap it in tissue and bin it; avoid crushing it with your fingers)

What not to do

These common “old-school” methods can make things worse:

• Don’t use petroleum jelly, alcohol, essential oils, soap, nail varnish remover or heat
• Don’t squeeze the tick’s body with tweezers (this can increase irritation and the chance of infection)
• Don’t pull sharply — it’s more likely parts of the tick will remain embedded

If your cat won’t tolerate removal, or the tick is in a sensitive area (like deep inside the ear), it’s safest to stop and call the vet.

What to do after you remove the tick

It’s normal for the skin to look slightly red or irritated afterwards. Some cats may scratch at the area for a day or two.

Normal after-effects (usually mild)

1. A small red mark at the bite site
2. A tiny scab
3. Mild itchiness

Concerning signs to watch for

Call your vet if you notice any of the following after a tick bite (or after tick removal):

• Swelling that’s getting bigger over 24–48 hours
• Pus, a strong smell, or the area feels hot
• Your cat seems unusually tired or “not themselves”
• Reduced appetite for more than a day
• Lameness, wobbliness, or reluctance to jump
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Breathing changes

If you’re not sure whether something is urgent, it can help to phone your practice and describe the symptoms (and share a photo of the bite site).

If you need tips on making the appointment less stressful, see our guide on taking your cat to the vet.

When to call the vet (and when to go urgently)

Every cat is different, and what’s “fine to monitor” for one may be more concerning for another — especially kittens, older cats, or cats with ongoing health conditions.

Situations where you should call your vet today

1. You can’t remove the tick completely (or you think part has been left behind)
2. The tick is attached near the eye, inside the ear, or another sensitive area
3. The bite site looks infected
4. Your cat has multiple ticks (this can suggest they’ve had heavy exposure)
5. Your cat is very itchy, distressed, or keeps reopening the skin

Situations that are more urgent

Seek urgent veterinary advice if your cat has:

1. Sudden weakness or collapse
2. Trouble breathing
3. Severe swelling (especially around the face)
4. Repeated vomiting, or they can’t keep water down

IMPORTANT

If you’re ever unsure, it’s completely reasonable to call your vet for guidance. A quick conversation can save a lot of worry.

How to prevent ticks on cats in the UK

Prevention tends to be easier (and kinder) than dealing with ticks after they’ve attached.

Practical prevention tips

• Use a vet-recommended parasite treatment that covers ticks (your vet can advise what’s safe for cats)
• Avoid using dog-only flea/tick products on cats — some ingredients can be dangerous to cats
• Check outdoor cats regularly during warmer months
• Keep grass trimmed in your garden where possible

For a broader approach to parasite control, you might also like our guide to flea, tick and worm prevention.

Key takeaways (a simple checklist)

• Ticks are common in the UK, especially for outdoor cats
• Check your cat’s head, neck and ears regularly
• Remove ticks with a proper tick tool (don’t squeeze, burn, or smother)
• Watch the bite site over the next few days
• Call the vet if you can’t remove the tick cleanly or your cat seems unwell

Protecting your cat after a tick bite

Finding a tick on your cat can be unpleasant, but it’s also something many UK cat owners deal with at some point. A calm tick-check routine, the right removal tool, and knowing the warning signs can make the whole situation much less stressful.

If your cat needs veterinary treatment after a tick bite, having pet insurance in place can help with unexpected vet bills. With any policy, cover depends on the terms and conditions, and pre-existing conditions are typically excluded — so it’s always worth checking what’s included before you need to claim. You can learn more about our approach to cat insurance when you’re ready.