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What's this on my stray cat's neck? Is it a tick and dangerous?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | unneutered

I befriended a stray cat and he comes and spends time with me every day. I felt something under his fur on his neck a couple of days ago but ignored it. Today I checked it out and found something. I am not sure what it is or if it's dangerous for him. Please help.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Linda G,  MS, DVM

Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 20th, 2020

Hello. That is a tick. You can use a pair of tweezers or use a tissue to grab the tick as close to the skin as possible. A steady pull will dislodge the tick. Clean the spot with some peroxide & a dab pf a triple antibiotic. Then, wash your hands & Bobo should be fine. But do watch for any signs of illness as ticks do carry diseases that can be quite dangerous to cats. It might take a week or two to see signs, if they are to appear. If you can, try to apply a good flea & tick preventative on Bobo regularly to prevent more ticks from getting on him. Two to consider are Frontline GOLD or Bravecto for cats. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
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