Safe ways to eliminate fleas in a pregnant cat?

«Understanding the Risks of Fleas for Pregnant Cats»

«Health Concerns for the Mother Cat»

«Anemia and Weakness»

Flea infestations can cause significant blood loss in pregnant cats, leading to anemia and consequent weakness. The female’s increased metabolic demands during gestation amplify the impact of even modest hemoglobin reductions, resulting in lethargy, poor appetite, and reduced ability to care for her kittens.

Anemia from fleas arises when adult parasites feed repeatedly on the cat’s blood, while larvae may also ingest blood from the mother’s skin. Continuous feeding depletes iron stores, decreasing oxygen transport capacity. In a gestating feline, this compromises uterine blood flow, potentially affecting fetal development and increasing the risk of premature birth.

Mitigating anemia requires prompt, safe flea control. Options include:

Topical treatments formulated for pregnant cats, applied according to label instructions, providing rapid kill of adult fleas and interruption of the life cycle.
Oral medications approved for use during pregnancy, delivering systemic action that eliminates fleas without skin contact.
Environmental management such as regular vacuuming, washing bedding at high temperatures, and using flea‑free zones to prevent re‑infestation.

Concurrent supportive care strengthens the cat’s blood volume. Administering iron‑rich diets, supplementing with B‑complex vitamins, and ensuring adequate hydration help restore hemoglobin levels. Veterinary monitoring of packed cell volume (PCV) and total protein guides treatment adjustments.

If anemia progresses despite flea control, veterinary intervention may involve blood transfusion or injectable iron preparations. Early detection through routine blood work prevents severe weakness and supports successful gestation.

Overall, integrating veterinarian‑approved flea eradication methods with nutritional support addresses anemia and weakness, safeguarding both the pregnant cat and her developing offspring.

«Skin Irritation and Infections»

Fleas bite the skin of an expectant cat, causing redness, itching, and, if left untreated, secondary bacterial or fungal infections. The irritation results from saliva injected during feeding, which triggers an inflammatory response. Persistent scratching can break the epidermis, creating entry points for opportunistic pathogens such as Staphylococcus or Candida species. Infections may manifest as pustules, crusted lesions, or foul‑smelling discharge and can worsen the cat’s overall health and pregnancy outcomes.

Effective, non‑toxic flea control reduces the risk of skin complications. Recommended measures include:

Topical spot‑on products formulated for pregnant cats, containing low‑dose fipronil or selamectin; apply a single dose to the back of the neck to avoid ingestion during grooming.
Oral medications approved for gestating felines, such as a single dose of a spinosad‑based tablet; administer with food to enhance absorption.
Environmental management: wash bedding at ≥60 °C, vacuum carpets daily, and use a flea‑free indoor spray based on pyrethrins that are labeled safe for pregnant animals.
Regular grooming: comb the coat with a fine‑toothed flea comb to remove adult insects and eggs, reducing skin exposure.

If skin irritation appears, veterinary intervention should include:

Antiseptic cleansing of affected areas with chlorhexidine solution to lower bacterial load.
Topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin ointment) applied twice daily until lesions resolve.
Systemic therapy only when deep infection is confirmed; choose drugs with established safety profiles for feline pregnancy, such as amoxicillin‑clavulanate.
Anti‑inflammatory agents like low‑dose prednisolone may be prescribed to control severe pruritus, but only under veterinary supervision.

Monitoring the cat’s skin condition throughout flea treatment ensures early detection of secondary infections and supports a healthy gestation.

«Threats to Kittens»

«Flea Anemia in Newborns»

Flea‑borne blood loss can cause severe anemia in newborn kittens, especially when the mother carries a heavy infestation during gestation. Adult female cats transmit fleas to their offspring through close contact and by shedding eggs into the nesting area. Newborns, unable to groom, ingest or absorb flea saliva, which can destroy red blood cells and lead to rapid decline in hemoglobin levels. Clinical signs include lethargy, pale mucous membranes, rapid breathing, and a weak pulse; without prompt intervention, mortality rates rise sharply.

Effective, pregnancy‑compatible flea management reduces the risk of neonatal anemia. The following measures are endorsed by veterinary authorities:

Apply a veterinarian‑prescribed spot‑on product containing a low‑dose insect growth regulator; formulations approved for use in pregnant cats avoid systemic toxicity.
Use a topical flea collar that releases an insecticide at concentrations proven safe for gestating felines; replace according to label schedule.
Maintain a strict environmental control program: vacuum carpets daily, launder bedding at 60 °C, and treat indoor spaces with a residual insecticide labeled for use around pregnant animals.
Administer an oral medication containing a flea‑specific enzyme inhibitor only if the product label explicitly permits use during pregnancy; dosage must follow veterinary guidance.

Monitoring newborn kittens for anemia involves weekly hematocrit assessments during the first four weeks of life. If hemoglobin falls below 20 %, immediate blood transfusion and iron supplementation are indicated. Concurrently, treat the dam with the chosen flea control method to prevent re‑infestation and protect future litters. Continuous collaboration with a veterinarian ensures both maternal safety and neonatal health.

«Transmission of Diseases»

Fleas serve as vectors for several pathogens that can affect both the mother and the developing kittens. The most common agents transmitted by cat fleas include Rickettsia felis (causing flea‑borne spotted fever), Bartonella henselae (cat‑scratch disease), and Dipylidium caninum (tapeworm). Transmission occurs when an infected flea bites the cat, injecting bacteria or releasing embryonated eggs that are later ingested during grooming. In pregnant cats, maternal infection can lead to placental invasion, fetal loss, or neonatal illness due to transplacental passage of certain agents, particularly Bartonella species.

Preventing disease transmission hinges on eliminating the flea population without exposing the pregnant cat to toxic chemicals. Safe interventions include:

Topical spot‑on products formulated for use during gestation, containing low‑toxicity insect growth regulators (e.g., selamectin) that interrupt the flea life cycle.
Oral flea preventatives with established safety profiles in pregnancy, such as a low‑dose spinosad formulation administered according to veterinary guidance.
Environmental control using vacuuming, washing bedding at >60 °C, and applying insecticidal powders labeled for use in homes with pregnant animals; these powders act by desiccating eggs and larvae and carry minimal systemic risk.
Regular grooming with a fine‑toothed flea comb to physically remove adult fleas and reduce the chance of pathogen transfer during the critical gestational period.

Veterinarians may also recommend a short course of a safe, prescription‑only flea medication if the infestation is severe, ensuring dosage aligns with the cat’s weight and stage of pregnancy. Monitoring for clinical signs of infection—fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, or gastrointestinal disturbances—allows early therapeutic intervention, which can mitigate the impact on both dam and offspring.

«Safe Flea Treatment Options for Pregnant Felines»

«Consulting Your Veterinarian»

«Importance of Professional Advice»

Professional veterinary consultation is indispensable when addressing flea infestations in a pregnant cat. Only a veterinarian can evaluate the stage of gestation, the cat’s health status, and the severity of the infestation to recommend a treatment plan that safeguards both the mother and developing kittens.

Veterinarians possess access to products approved for use during feline pregnancy. These products undergo rigorous testing for safety and efficacy, ensuring that the medication does not cross the placental barrier in harmful concentrations. Over‑the‑counter flea remedies often lack such validation and may contain ingredients that could induce teratogenic effects or disrupt normal fetal development.

A veterinarian’s assessment also identifies underlying conditions that may complicate flea treatment. For example, concurrent infections, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies require simultaneous management; ignoring these factors can diminish the effectiveness of flea control and jeopardize pregnancy outcomes.

Key reasons to seek professional advice:

Accurate diagnosis of flea species and infestation level
Prescription of pregnancy‑safe topical or oral agents
Guidance on environmental decontamination methods that avoid toxic chemicals
Monitoring of treatment response and adjustment of protocols as gestation progresses

Relying on expert veterinary guidance eliminates guesswork, reduces the risk of adverse drug reactions, and promotes a healthy birth.

«Discussing Health History»

When a cat is pregnant, the veterinarian’s assessment of her medical record determines which flea‑control options are permissible. The practitioner must verify that the cat has completed the recommended vaccination series, as some flea products can interfere with vaccine efficacy. A record of previous allergic reactions to topical or oral medications alerts the clinician to avoid agents that previously caused dermatitis or gastrointestinal upset.

The health history also reveals any concurrent illnesses that could be exacerbated by flea treatments. Chronic kidney disease, liver dysfunction, or endocrine disorders such as hyperthyroidism require dosage adjustments or alternative products. Documentation of past pregnancies and any complications, such as dystocia or stillbirths, guides the selection of agents with proven safety for fetal development.

Key elements to review before initiating flea control:

Vaccination status and dates
Known drug allergies or sensitivities
Existing systemic conditions (renal, hepatic, endocrine)
History of reproductive issues or previous litters
Current medications, including supplements and herbal remedies

By integrating these data points, the veterinarian can prescribe a flea management plan that eliminates parasites while preserving maternal health and fetal safety. The chosen regimen typically involves products with minimal systemic absorption, such as a veterinarian‑approved, pregnancy‑tested spot‑on formulation applied at a reduced frequency, or a non‑chemical environmental control strategy combined with regular grooming.

«Recommended Topical Treatments»

«Flea Combs and Manual Removal»

Flea combs provide a non‑chemical means of reducing flea populations on a pregnant cat. The fine‑toothed metal comb captures adult fleas, eggs, and larvae while allowing the animal’s skin to remain undisturbed. Regular combing removes a visible portion of the infestation and prevents further breeding cycles.

To use a flea comb effectively:

Perform combing on a clean, dry coat; wet fur can cause the comb to snag and reduce capture efficiency.
Hold the cat gently but firmly to prevent sudden movement, supporting the body with one hand while the other guides the comb.
Starting at the head, draw the comb through the fur toward the tail in slow, deliberate strokes.
After each pass, tap the comb over a white surface (paper or towel) to dislodge captured insects, then rinse the comb with warm water.
Repeat the process on each body region, paying special attention to the neck, back, and base of the tail where fleas commonly congregate.
Conduct the routine twice daily during an active infestation, then reduce to once daily once flea numbers decline.

Manual removal complements the combing process. Inspect the cat’s skin for visible fleas, especially in folds and under the limbs. Use a pair of tweezers with a fine tip to grasp the flea as close to the skin as possible, applying steady pressure to extract the entire insect without crushing the abdomen. After removal, clean the bite site with a mild antiseptic solution to reduce the risk of secondary infection.

Precautions for pregnant cats:

Avoid harsh pulling or squeezing that could cause skin trauma.
Do not use chemical sprays, powders, or topical insecticides during pregnancy; the comb and manual extraction are the only safe interventions.
Monitor the cat for signs of stress or anemia; if excessive blood loss or lethargy occurs, seek veterinary assistance promptly.

Consistent combing combined with careful manual extraction can substantially lower flea loads without exposing a pregnant cat to toxic treatments.

«Vet-Approved Spot-Ons and Shampoos»

Veterinarians recommend only products that have undergone safety testing for gestating felines. Spot‑on treatments that contain selamectin or imidacloprid are classified as pregnancy‑compatible when applied according to label directions. The medication disperses through the skin, reaches the bloodstream, and eradicates fleas without systemic toxicity. Application must occur on a dry coat, avoiding the face and mammary area; the dose is calculated per kilogram of body weight.

Shampoos formulated with pyrethrin‑free, low‑toxicity insecticidal agents provide an alternative for immediate flea removal. Products that combine a mild surfactant with a concentration of 0.5 % pyrethroid‑free insecticide, such as a benzyl alcohol‑based formula, are safe for use during all trimesters. The cat should be rinsed thoroughly, and the shampoo should not remain on the skin for longer than the recommended five minutes.

Key considerations for both modalities:

Verify that the product label explicitly states “safe for pregnant cats” or “use under veterinary guidance.”
Use the exact dose specified; overdosing can lead to neurotoxicity.
Apply spot‑ons at the base of the skull, away from the udder, to prevent accidental ingestion by the kittens.
Perform a patch test on a small skin area if the cat has a history of dermatitis.
Re‑treat only after the manufacturer‑specified interval, typically 30 days for spot‑ons and 7 days for shampoos.

When combined with environmental control—regular vacuuming, washing bedding at 60 °C, and treating the home with a veterinarian‑approved indoor spray—the described spot‑on and shampoo options effectively reduce flea populations while protecting the developing kittens.

«Environmental Flea Control Strategies»

«Regular Cleaning and Vacuuming»

Regular cleaning reduces flea populations by removing eggs, larvae, and pupae that develop in the environment. Frequent laundering of the cat’s bedding, blankets, and any fabric the animal contacts eliminates the stages of the flea life cycle that are not yet on the host.

Wash all washable items in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat for at least 20 minutes.
Discard or replace items that cannot be laundered, such as old cushions or worn rugs.
Clean litter boxes daily, removing clumps and waste to prevent flea eggs from escaping.
Wipe hard surfaces with a mild, pet‑safe detergent to remove debris that may harbor larvae.

Vacuuming complements washing by extracting flea eggs and pupae from carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring. Use a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter to trap microscopic particles and prevent re‑circulation of allergens. Operate the vacuum at least twice weekly, focusing on areas where the cat rests, feeds, or plays. After each session, empty the canister or bag into a sealed bag and dispose of it outside the home to avoid re‑infestation.

Consistent execution of these cleaning and vacuuming practices creates an environment hostile to flea development, protecting both the pregnant cat and her unborn kittens without resorting to chemical treatments.

«Washing Bedding and Linens»

Washing all bedding and linens eliminates adult fleas, eggs, and larvae that hide in fabric, reducing the risk of re‑infestation for a pregnant cat.

Remove all blankets, cushions, and washable toys from the cat’s environment.
Pre‑treat heavily infested items with a flea‑specific enzymatic cleaner or a solution of 1 % hydrogen peroxide; let it sit 10 minutes.
Machine‑wash at a minimum of 60 °C (140 °F) using a pet‑safe detergent; high temperature kills all life stages of the flea.
Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to neutralize residual chemicals and deodorize.
Dry on the highest heat setting for at least 30 minutes; tumble‑drying at high heat ensures complete eradication.

After washing, store cleaned items in sealed containers until the cat returns to the area. Replace any damaged fabric that cannot be thoroughly cleaned.

Select detergents free of harsh fragrances and dyes; these compounds can irritate a pregnant cat’s respiratory system. Ensure the cleaned environment is completely dry before allowing the cat back inside to prevent fungal growth and maintain comfort. Regular laundering—once weekly during an active flea treatment program—maintains a flea‑free habitat without exposing the mother to toxic insecticides.

«Treatments to Avoid During Pregnancy»

«Harmful Chemical Ingredients»

«Insecticides with Pyrethroids»

In flea control for pregnant felines, pyrethroid‑based insecticides are frequently cited. These compounds act on the nervous system by prolonging sodium‑channel opening, causing rapid paralysis in insects. Cats lack the hepatic enzymes required to metabolize pyrethroids efficiently, leading to accumulation of the toxin. During gestation, the maternal liver’s capacity is further reduced, increasing the risk of systemic toxicity and potential fetal exposure.

Research documents neurotoxic signs—tremors, hypersalivation, seizures—in cats that ingest or absorb pyrethroids. Laboratory studies indicate that pyrethroids can cross the placental barrier, raising concerns about embryonic development and possible teratogenic outcomes. Consequently, veterinary guidelines classify pyrethroids as contraindicated for use on pregnant or nursing cats.

If flea eradication is necessary, the following measures are considered safe:

Prescription‑only oral flea medication containing nitenpyram or spinosad, administered under veterinary supervision.
Topical products formulated with fipronil or selamectin, approved for use in pregnant cats.
Environmental control using vacuuming, steam cleaning, and washing bedding at ≥60 °C.
Regular grooming with a flea‑comb to remove adult insects mechanically.

When a pyrethroid product is the only option available, a veterinarian may permit limited use, specifying exact dosage, application site, and duration, while monitoring the cat for adverse reactions. In all cases, professional veterinary assessment remains essential to ensure both maternal and fetal health.

«Organophosphates and Carbamates»

Fleas infestations in a gestating cat demand a treatment plan that protects both the mother and the unborn kittens. Chemical classes such as organophosphates and carbamates are frequently mentioned in flea control discussions, yet their pharmacologic actions render them unsuitable for use during pregnancy.

Organophosphates inhibit acetylcholinesterase, causing accumulation of acetylcholine at synaptic junctions. Carbamates produce a similar effect by reversible binding to the same enzyme. Both groups produce systemic toxicity that can cross the placental barrier, leading to neurodevelopmental disturbances and possible embryonic loss.

Pregnant felines exhibit heightened sensitivity to cholinergic overload; clinical signs include salivation, tremors, respiratory distress, and, in severe cases, fetal demise. Veterinary guidelines classify these agents as contraindicated for breeding animals, and many regulatory agencies have removed them from the market for household pet use.

Safe flea management for a pregnant cat relies on non‑systemic and low‑toxicity strategies:

Frequent vacuuming of carpets, bedding, and upholstery to remove eggs and larvae.
Washing all bedding in hot water (≥ 60 °C) weekly.
Applying a veterinarian‑approved topical flea preventive that contains fipronil or selamectin, both demonstrated safe for gestation.
Administering an oral product containing lufenuron, a growth‑inhibitor that does not affect adult insects but prevents egg development.
Using a fine‑mesh flea comb daily to mechanically remove adult fleas and eggs.

Implementing these measures eliminates the flea burden without exposing the pregnant cat to cholinesterase‑inhibiting toxins, thereby safeguarding maternal health and fetal development.

«Oral Medications and Their Potential Side Effects»

«Systemic Risks to Fetus»

Flea‑control products that enter the bloodstream of a pregnant cat can cross the placental barrier and affect fetal development. Systemic insecticides, especially those administered orally, are absorbed rapidly, distribute through the circulatory system, and may reach the uterus within hours. Their chemical structures often resemble neurotoxic agents; exposure during organogenesis can disrupt neuronal signaling, leading to malformations or functional deficits in the offspring.

Topical formulations designed for absorption through the skin also pose a risk. Although intended for localized action, a portion of the active ingredient migrates into the systemic circulation, especially when applied to a cat with increased skin permeability during pregnancy. Transdermal movement can result in measurable concentrations in fetal tissues, potentially interfering with hormone regulation and organ maturation.

Environmental treatments, such as foggers or residual sprays, generate aerosolized particles that settle on the cat’s fur and are subsequently ingested during grooming. Ingested residues enter the digestive tract, are absorbed, and become part of the maternal blood supply. Continuous low‑level exposure can accumulate, raising the likelihood of subclinical toxicity that may manifest as reduced birth weight or delayed growth.

Key systemic hazards to the fetus

Neurotoxicity: interference with acetylcholine pathways, possible seizures or developmental delays.
Endocrine disruption: alteration of progesterone and estrogen balance, affecting gestation maintenance.
Teratogenicity: structural anomalies in skeletal, cardiac, or renal systems when exposure occurs in the first trimester.
Immunosuppression: reduced fetal immune competence, increasing susceptibility to infections after birth.

Choosing flea‑control methods that remain outside the maternal bloodstream—such as manual removal, regular bathing with mild, pregnancy‑safe shampoos, and thorough cleaning of the cat’s environment—eliminates the systemic route of exposure and protects fetal health.

«Gastrointestinal Upset in Mother Cat»

Pregnant cats are vulnerable to gastrointestinal disturbances caused by flea‑borne agents, oral medications, and stress from infestation. The mother’s digestive system can react to systemic insecticides, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and dehydration, which may compromise fetal development.

Common triggers include:

Oral flea treatments containing pyrethrins or neonicotinoids; absorption through the gut can irritate the mucosa.
Ingested flea debris during grooming; contaminated fur introduces bacterial toxins.
Sudden dietary changes introduced to manage fleas; abrupt shifts disrupt normal gut flora.

Assessment should focus on clinical signs, hydration status, and fecal examination. Blood work may reveal electrolyte imbalances and mild anemia associated with chronic flea exposure.

Management strategies prioritize safety for both dam and kittens:

Apply veterinarian‑approved topical products that remain on the skin, minimizing ingestion.
Use a monthly flea collar formulated for pregnant felines; the collar releases low‑dose insecticide without systemic absorption.
Implement environmental control: vacuum carpets, wash bedding at high temperature, and treat the home with insect growth regulators that do not enter the cat’s digestive tract.
Offer a bland diet (e.g., boiled chicken and rice) during acute upset; reintroduce regular food gradually over 48‑72 hours.
Provide oral rehydration solutions or subcutaneous fluids if dehydration is evident.
Monitor for recurrence; repeat fecal checks after two weeks to confirm clearance.

Avoid oral flea tablets, injectable insecticides, and essential‑oil products, as these increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and systemic toxicity. Collaboration with a veterinary professional ensures that flea elimination methods protect the mother’s digestive health while safeguarding the unborn litter.

«Post-Treatment Care and Prevention»

«Monitoring for Flea Re-infestation»

«Regular Inspections»

Regular inspections are a cornerstone of flea management for an expectant feline. By examining the cat and its environment consistently, owners can detect early signs of infestation and intervene before chemicals become necessary.

A systematic inspection routine includes the following actions:

Daily coat check: Run fingertips through the fur, especially behind the ears, neck, and tail base, to feel for moving insects or small dark specks.
Weekly skin assessment: Look for redness, small bite marks, or clusters of flea dirt (tiny black particles) on the skin and bedding.
Environmental sweep: Inspect carpets, upholstery, and sleeping areas for flea eggs or larvae; use a fine-toothed comb on fabric surfaces.
Record keeping: Note any findings, dates, and locations to track patterns and adjust cleaning frequency.

Consistent monitoring reduces the need for topical or oral treatments, protecting both the mother and developing kittens from potential drug exposure.

«Signs of Flea Activity»

Identifying flea activity is the first step in protecting a pregnant cat from infestation. Fleas can compromise maternal health and affect developing kittens, so early detection allows for prompt, safe intervention.

Typical indicators include:

Frequent scratching or biting at the skin, especially around the neck, tail base, and hindquarters.
Small, dark specks (flea feces) on the fur or bedding, which turn red when moistened.
Visible adult fleas moving through the coat or falling onto surfaces.
Red, irritated patches of skin, often accompanied by hair loss or thinning.
Restlessness or agitation, particularly when the cat lies down.
Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite, which may signal a heavy flea burden.

Monitoring these signs enables timely, pregnancy‑compatible flea control measures.

«Maintaining a Flea-Free Environment»

«Ongoing Cleaning Schedule»

A consistent cleaning routine is essential for controlling flea populations while protecting a pregnant cat and her developing kittens. Regular removal of eggs, larvae, and adult fleas from the environment reduces the need for chemical treatments that could affect the mother’s health.

Begin each day by vacuuming all carpeted areas, rugs, and upholstery for at least ten minutes. Immediately empty the vacuum canister or dispose of the bag in a sealed container to prevent re‑infestation. Follow with a damp mop on hard floors, using a mild, cat‑safe detergent. Repeat this process every other day during the first two weeks of treatment, then transition to a weekly schedule once flea counts decline.

Implement a weekly deep‑cleaning protocol:

Strip pet bedding and wash in hot water (≥130 °F) with a fragrance‑free detergent; dry on high heat.
Launder blankets, towels, and any removable covers used by the cat.
Steam‑clean carpets and upholstery to reach crevices where eggs may hide.
Disinfect litter boxes with a diluted vinegar solution; rinse thoroughly and replace litter.
Clean feeding areas and water bowls with a mild bleach solution (1 tsp per quart of water), then rinse well.

Maintain the schedule for at least six weeks, the typical flea life cycle, to ensure all stages are eliminated. Monitor the cat’s behavior and skin condition; if flea activity persists, consult a veterinarian for additional safe interventions.

«Preventative Measures for Other Pets»

When a pregnant cat is undergoing flea control, the health of cohabiting animals must be considered. Fleas can migrate between pets, so preventive actions protect all members of the household and reduce the need for additional treatments.

Keep the environment clean: vacuum carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding daily; dispose of vacuum contents immediately. Wash all washable fabrics in hot water to kill any life stages of fleas.
Restrict outdoor access for other pets during the treatment period. Limit exposure to areas where the pregnant cat has rested or been treated.
Use non‑chemical flea prevention on dogs and other cats, such as veterinarian‑approved collars, shampoos, or sprays that do not contain insecticides harmful to a gestating feline.
Apply spot‑on products only on the intended species and follow label instructions precisely. Avoid cross‑application, as formulations differ in safety profiles.
Maintain regular grooming: brush dogs and other cats to detect and remove adult fleas early. Dispose of comb debris in sealed bags.
Provide balanced nutrition and routine veterinary care for all pets; strong immune systems lessen the likelihood of severe infestations.

Monitoring is essential. Inspect each animal weekly for signs of fleas—scratching, visible insects, or flea dirt. If any pet shows an infestation, consult a veterinarian promptly to select a treatment that does not jeopardize the pregnant cat’s condition.