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My cat has a bump after I pulled out a tick. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 2 years and 9 months old

my cat had a tick on her 4about 5 days ago, which I pulled out not realising it was a tick, it had legs on when I pulled it out, but now there is a bump where it was attached, (maybe a pus lump) what is the best thing to do? should I take her to the vet? or get rid of the lump by popping it? Its hard to see in the picture but we tried to flick of the top thinking it was a spot (which is why it is red) it was just white before. she doesn't seem in pain when I touch it, what do you think is best?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on October 14th, 2017

YEs this is quite likely a tick bite reaction and there may be part of the tick still there causing irritation. Bathing with warm saline soaked cotton wool will help to keep the area clean if she allows you, monitor closely for increasing redness, pain, lameness or fever which may indicate a widespread infection which would require additional treatment. I recommend using a tick prevention such as bravecto every 3months to prevent further incidents

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6Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 26th, 2015

    It is common to have a local reaction after a tick bite. You could clean the area with peroxide and apply an over the counter antibiotic cream. I would definitely monitor for anything abnormal and have him examined by a vet if needed.

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    38Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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