A domestic cat has gotten fleas: what should be done? - briefly
Administer a veterinarian‑approved flea medication—topical, oral, or collar—and follow the dosing schedule precisely. Clean the cat’s bedding, vacuum all carpets, and treat the home with a suitable insecticide to eliminate remaining fleas and prevent re‑infestation.
A domestic cat has gotten fleas: what should be done? - in detail
Your indoor cat has a flea infestation. The first step is to verify the problem by examining the coat, especially around the neck, tail base, and abdomen. Look for live insects, dark specks (flea dirt), or excessive scratching.
Once confirmed, begin treatment immediately. Use a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral product that kills adult fleas and interrupts the life cycle. Apply the medication exactly as directed, typically once a month for products that provide continuous protection. If the cat is very young, pregnant, or has health issues, choose a formulation specifically labeled for those conditions.
Treat the environment simultaneously, because adult fleas lay eggs that fall off the host. Follow these actions:
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, upholstery, and cracks in flooring thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
- Apply a flea spray or fogger approved for indoor use, covering the entire living area and allowing the recommended dwell time before re‑entry.
- Treat any other pets in the household with the same or a compatible flea control product to prevent cross‑infestation.
After the initial treatment, monitor the cat for at least two weeks. Re‑apply the medication if the label advises a second dose for heavy infestations. Continue regular preventative applications to keep the cat flea‑free year‑round.
Prevent future problems by maintaining a consistent prevention schedule, keeping the home clean, and limiting the cat’s exposure to outdoor environments where fleas are common. Regular grooming with a flea comb can detect early signs before an outbreak becomes severe.