Fleas on a cat: how can their presence be determined? - briefly
Examination of the cat’s coat with a fine-toothed comb, focusing on the spine, tail base, and neck, reveals adult fleas, eggs, or dark specks of feces. Additional indicators include persistent scratching, visible bite marks, and a sudden increase in hair loss.
Fleas on a cat: how can their presence be determined? - in detail
Detecting a flea infestation on a cat requires systematic observation and targeted testing. Visual cues include small, dark specks moving on the skin or fur, especially along the neck, base of the tail, and under the belly. These specks may be adult insects, nymphs, or eggs, each roughly 1–3 mm in size.
Behavioral indicators such as frequent scratching, biting at the skin, or excessive grooming often accompany an infestation. Persistent hair loss or rough, irritated patches suggest localized flea activity.
A fine-toothed flea comb provides a practical diagnostic tool. Running the comb through the coat from head to tail collects adult fleas, larvae, or flea feces (known as "flea dirt"). The collected material can be examined under a magnifying lens; flea dirt appears as dark granular particles that turn reddish when moistened with water, indicating digested blood.
Laboratory confirmation is possible through skin scrapings or adhesive tape tests performed by a veterinarian. These methods reveal flea eggs, larvae, or pupae that are not easily seen on the surface.
Additional techniques include:
- Flea dirt test: Place a small amount of suspected debris on a white surface, add a drop of water; a reddish stain confirms blood‑filled feces.
- Blacklight examination: Ultraviolet light highlights flea feces and eggs, which fluoresce faintly.
- Environmental sampling: Use sticky traps or flea monitoring cards in the cat’s sleeping area to detect jumping adults.
A comprehensive assessment combines direct inspection, combing results, behavioral signs, and, when necessary, professional veterinary diagnostics. Early detection enables prompt treatment, preventing the rapid reproduction cycle that can quickly amplify the infestation.