5 Incorrect Ways to Remove a Tick from Pets Safely

Ticks are small, repulsive-looking parasites from the arachnid family, which can latch onto the skin of pets like cats and dogs, and even people, where they pierce the skin to feed on blood.

These unpleasant parasites not only look unsettling, but they can also pose serious health risks to your cat or dog. Ticks are known to spread diseases, cause localised skin reactions, and infections around the bite area.

In severe cases of tick infestation, although rare in pets, these parasites can feed so extensively that they may cause anaemia due to blood loss. Such serious conditions highlight why correct tick removal is essential for responsible pet ownership.

With warmer weather approaching in spring, ticks become more active. They are typically found in long grass, boggy or marshy areas, patiently waiting to latch onto passing mammals. Pet owners living in areas where ticks are common often face the task of removing ticks from their dogs and cats each year.

However, not all methods of tick removal are safe or effective. This article explores five incorrect ways of removing ticks that pet owners should avoid, explaining why these methods are problematic and how to remove ticks safely.

1. Using Flat Tweezers

Before the rise of specialised tick removal tools, many people used flat tweezers to remove ticks by attempting to grasp the tick behind its head. While tweezers can allow you to catch the tick, using flat tweezers risks squeezing the tick’s body. This pressure can force harmful toxins from the tick into your pet’s skin, potentially increasing the risk of infection.

If tweezers are the only option available, it’s vital to use fine-pointed ones and gently grasp the tick’s mouthparts as close to the skin as possible, pulling steadily without twisting or squeezing. However, the best practice is to avoid tweezers entirely in favour of specially designed tick removal tools.

2. Wiggling or Rocking the Tick

Some traditional advice recommends wiggling or rocking the tick back and forth to loosen its grip before removal. This method is unnecessary and dangerous as it can cause the tick’s head to break off and remain embedded in your pet's skin, leading to infection and further complications.

The safest approach is to grip the tick firmly and pull it out steadily without any twisting or jerking motions. The tick’s mouthparts release naturally when pulled out correctly, minimising the risk of leaving any parts behind.

3. Using Your Fingers to Remove Ticks

When no tools are at hand, it might be tempting to use your fingers to remove a tick. However, this method is unhygienic and risky. Handling ticks directly increases your own risk of disease transmission, and fingers cannot grasp the tick properly at the mouthparts. This often results in crushing the tick’s body, which can inject harmful pathogens into your pet’s skin, or leaving the tick’s head stuck in the bite site.

It’s much safer to wait until a proper tool is available or seek veterinary assistance. Remember to protect your hands with gloves if possible while handling ticks.

4. Covering the Tick in Vaseline or Other Substances

Another common myth is that smothering a tick with Vaseline, nail polish, or oil will suffocate it and cause it to drop off. Unfortunately, ticks can survive for hours without breathing at a normal rate, so these substances are ineffective at killing them.

Covering the tick delays removal, which can increase the chances of disease transmission and stress for your pet. The safest method is immediate and proper removal rather than waiting for it to drop off.

5. Burning the Tick Off

Some owners might consider burning off ticks with a lit match or hot tool to force the tick to detach. This method is highly dangerous and strongly discouraged.

Approaching your pet with a flame or hot object risks burning or singeing their skin and fur, causing pain and damage. Additionally, the heat can cause the tick to regurgitate harmful fluids into the bite wound, increasing infection risk. A dead tick may also remain embedded under the skin, leading to further complications.

Moreover, the traumatic experience may make your pet fearful and uncooperative during future tick removals.

Safe Tick Removal: What You Should Do

The most effective, safe, and stress-free way to remove ticks is by using a specialised tick removal tool, such as a tick twister, which is designed to grasp the tick securely near its mouthparts and gently pull it free without squeezing or twisting.

Alternatively, if unsure or if your pet has multiple ticks or reactions, seek professional removal from your veterinarian. They have the experience and tools to remove ticks safely and provide advice on prevention and treatment options.

Regular tick checks after outdoor activities, especially in high-risk areas, combined with preventive measures like acaricide treatments, can protect your pets year-round.

By following these guidelines, you help ensure your beloved cat or dog stays healthy, comfortable, and free from tick-related health issues.