Cat has fleas: what should be done? - briefly
Treat the cat with a veterinarian‑approved flea product and thoroughly clean its surroundings—wash bedding, vacuum carpets, and use a suitable household flea spray. Schedule a veterinary check‑up to confirm elimination and prevent recurrence.
Cat has fleas: what should be done? - in detail
A flea infestation on a cat requires immediate, systematic action to eliminate parasites and prevent re‑infestation.
First, treat the animal. Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea product according to the label dosage. Use a product that contains an adulticide and an insect growth regulator to kill existing fleas and interrupt the life cycle. Repeat the treatment after seven days to target emerging adults. If the cat is particularly sensitive, consider a prescription shampoo followed by a short‑term oral medication; consult a vet before combining products.
Second, address the environment. Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use. Apply a residual insecticide spray or fogger to the home, focusing on areas where the cat rests. Follow the product’s safety interval before allowing the cat back into treated spaces.
Third, manage outdoor exposure. Keep the cat indoors during treatment periods to avoid re‑infection. If outdoor access is necessary, treat the surrounding area with a pet‑safe outdoor flea spray and eliminate wildlife hosts such as rodents and stray cats that can harbor fleas.
Fourth, monitor progress. Check the cat’s coat daily for live fleas or “flea dirt” (small black specks). Use a fine‑toothed flea comb to remove any remaining insects and collect debris for microscopic verification. Continue environmental cleaning for at least three weeks, as flea eggs and larvae can persist in the habitat.
Finally, establish a preventive regimen. Administer a monthly flea preventive year‑round, even when no active infestation is observed. Combine this with regular grooming and routine veterinary examinations to detect early signs of infestation and address them promptly.
By following these steps—direct treatment, thorough environmental control, limited outdoor exposure, diligent monitoring, and ongoing prevention—the flea problem can be eradicated and the risk of recurrence minimized.