Can Cats Get Ticks?

Bringing home a cat is an exciting experience, but it also comes with a learning curve. New cat owners quickly discover there's much more to feline care than providing food, water, and a cozy place to nap. From understanding your cat's behavior to recognizing potential health risks, learning about common issues can help you keep your furry companion happy and healthy. One question many first-time cat owners ask is whether cats can get ticks—and the answer is yes.

Cats can absolutely get ticks, especially if they spend time outdoors or live in areas with tall grass, wooded trails, or dense vegetation. Ticks attach themselves to a cat's skin to feed on blood, often hiding around the ears, neck, face, and between the toes. While indoor cats are at a much lower risk, they aren't completely safe—ticks can hitch a ride indoors on people, dogs, or even clothing. Regularly checking your cat after they've been outside can help you spot and remove ticks before they become a bigger problem.

Ticks are more than just an annoying pest; they can also carry diseases that may affect both cats and humans. If you find a tick on your cat, remove it carefully with fine-tipped tweezers or a tick-removal tool, making sure to grasp it close to the skin. Avoid squeezing the tick's body, as this can increase the chance of disease transmission. After removal, monitor the area for redness or swelling and contact your veterinarian if your cat develops unusual symptoms such as lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, or joint pain. Using a veterinarian-recommended tick preventative is one of the best ways to keep your feline friend protected year-round.