Tick season - how to protect your pets and remove ticks correctly

It's that time of year again, tick season is upon us and our dogs and cats are frolicking in the woods and meadows again. In Switzerland, this time begins as soon as it gets warm and humid outside, because this is when the unloved ticks become active. This means that special protection is particularly important from March to November. In most cases, however, one or two tick bites cannot be prevented - then it is important to remove the tick correctly using the necessary tools.

Removing ticks correctly - opinions are divided here

We are often asked whether ticks should be pulled or removed. As our furry friends are all indoor cats, we are fortunately spared this issue. However, we also research topics that do not directly concern us in order to be able to provide you with information.

Opinions differ widely on whether to pull or twist. The most important thing, however, is that regardless of whether you pull or turn slowly it shall happen.

If possible, use an aid such as a Tick tweezers, tick card or a Tick hook at hand.
Move the hair slightly to the side so that you don't pull out any of your cat's or dog's hair with the tool
You should grab the tick as close to the skin as possible. It is important that you do not squeeze the abdomen, which is usually already filled with blood.
Once you have a «firm grip» on the tick, you can pull it out slowly. Make sure that you remove it from the skin as vertically as possible and in one continuous pull

Take a look at our tools that you can use to remove ticks

Attention!

Avoid household remedies such as nail polish, oil, alcohol, toothpaste, etc. This does not make removing a tick any easier - it is even dangerous, as such household remedies may increase the risk of infection.

If a part of the tick remains in the skin - observe - but don't panic! In principle, this does not pose any danger as these parts are usually expelled from the body. In most cases, this remnant is only the tick's biting apparatus.

After the tick has been removed, you should keep a close eye on your pet for the next few days. If there is swelling at the bite site after removal or if your pet shows symptoms such as lack of appetite or exhaustion, you should visit the vet.

If you are unsure, always contact your vet. The vet can also show you how to remove ticks.

Protect your pet from ticks and prevent

To prevent tick and vermin infestation, you will find a number of articles in our store, such as SpotOns and collars for the dog. As with cats advise against collars altogether, we recommend the natural solution for your velvet paws the BIOSPOTIX SpotOn to be used.