Cat with fleas: what should be done? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment to the cat and simultaneously clean its bedding, vacuum the home, and use environmental insecticides to eradicate eggs and larvae. Continue monthly preventive medication to maintain a flea‑free environment.
Cat with fleas: what should be done? - in detail
A flea infestation in a cat is diagnosed by spotting adult fleas, flea dirt (dark specks that turn red when moistened), or excessive scratching and hair loss. Confirm the presence by combing the coat with a fine-toothed flea comb and examining the collected material under a light.
Effective treatment combines immediate parasite removal and longer‑term control:
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral adulticide that kills existing fleas within 24 hours.
- Use a fast‑acting adulticide for the initial burst, followed by a product that also interrupts the life cycle (inhibits egg development).
- Treat all animals in the household simultaneously, even if they appear unaffected.
- Administer the medication according to the label schedule; most products require re‑application every 30 days.
Environmental management eliminates the source of reinfestation:
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily for two weeks; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately.
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable furniture covers in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Apply an EPA‑registered insecticide spray or fogger to carpets, cracks, and baseboards, focusing on areas where the cat rests.
- Consider professional pest‑control treatment for severe infestations.
Preventive measures sustain a flea‑free status:
- Maintain a regular schedule of monthly preventative medication for each cat.
- Keep outdoor cats indoors during peak flea season (spring and summer).
- Trim grass and weeds around the home to reduce wildlife hosts.
- Inspect new pets before introducing them to the household; treat them preemptively.
Consult a veterinary professional if the cat shows signs of anemia, severe skin irritation, or if flea control fails after two treatment cycles. The veterinarian may prescribe prescription‑strength products, conduct blood work, or recommend a tailored integrated pest‑management plan.