The Importance of Tick Prevention by Our Vets in Highgate

As temperatures rise in North London, ticks become more active—starting prevention early is one of the simplest ways to protect your pet. Ticks aren't just unpleasant; they can transmit serious illnesses, including Lyme disease, which can affect dogs, cats (albeit less commonly) and humans, and may cause long-term joint and kidney problems.

Early, consistent protection helps break the cycle of disease and infestation, often killing ticks before they can transmit serious illnesses. Our vets at Highgate Veterinary Clinic advise arranging your tick prevention treatment early this season - just book an appointment and we'll provide tailored protection.

Protecting pets from ticks this season

Why early protection matters

Ticks are often picked up on walks through long grass, woodland edges, or areas frequented by livestock and deer in North London. Once attached, they can feed for hours or days, increasing the risk of disease transmission.

Regular preventative treatments create a protective barrier, killing or repelling ticks before they can do harm. Book an appointment to speak to our vets in Highgate, or reorder your tick medication via our website.

Protecting cats and dogs

• Use a vet-recommended tick preventative treatments regularly, tailored to your pet's lifestyle.
• Check your pet after time outdoors, especially dogs after countryside walks and cats that roam around North London.
• Pay close attention to hidden spots: ears, neck, armpits, groin and between toes.
• Keep lawns trimmed to reduce damp, shady habitats where ticks thrive
• Discourage tick-carrying hosts, such as deer and rodents, by securing rubbish bins, removing fallen fruit, and using deer-resistant fencing or plants (if you have these visit your garden).

How to remove a tick safely

If you find a tick, don't panic; and don't pull it out with fingers or tweezers. Use a tick removal tool, which slides under the tick and gently twists it away from the skin. Twisting (not pulling) reduces the risk of leaving mouthparts behind or squeezing infectious material into the bite.

Ask us about tick removal tools. Our nurses at Highgate Veterinary Clinic are happy to show you how to use them.

Tick FAQs

Should I check my cat regularly for ticks?

Yes. Our vets in Highgate recommend that outdoor cats, especially those hunting or roaming near fields and hedgerows, should be checked routinely.

What will a tick look like on my pet?

Ticks appear as small, dark bumps attached to the skin. As they feed, they can swell and look like a grey or brown bead.

How do I check my pet for ticks?

Run your hands slowly over your pet's body after time outside, feeling for small lumps. Part the fur to inspect the skin closely.

What diseases do ticks spread?

Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other infections that may cause lameness, lethargy, fever, and appetite changes. For tailored tick protection, book an appointment with our team at Highgate Veterinary Clinic and let's keep your pet safe this season.