How can a cat be combed to remove fleas at home? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on a relaxed cat, working from head to tail and rinsing the comb in soapy water after each pass to kill and remove fleas. Repeat the process daily until no fleas are seen and wash the cat’s bedding to prevent re‑infestation.
How can a cat be combed to remove fleas at home? - in detail
Fleas on a cat can be eliminated with a dedicated grooming tool and a systematic approach. Begin by selecting a fine‑tooth flea comb, preferably stainless steel, and preparing a shallow container of warm, soapy water for immediate disposal of captured insects. Trim the cat’s nails to reduce the risk of scratches, and choose a quiet area where the animal feels secure.
- Pre‑comb preparation – Lightly brush the coat with a regular grooming brush to remove tangles; this allows the flea comb to glide more efficiently.
- Combining technique – Hold the comb at a 45‑degree angle to the fur, start at the head and move toward the tail, making short, deliberate strokes. After each pass, wipe the teeth on a damp cloth and dip them in the soapy water to drown any fleas.
- Focused zones – Pay special attention to the neck, behind the ears, under the belly, and the base of the tail, where fleas commonly congregate.
- Repetition – Perform the process for 5–10 minutes per session, repeating daily for at least two weeks to break the flea life cycle.
- Post‑comb care – Bathe the cat with a veterinarian‑approved flea shampoo if tolerated, then dry thoroughly. Apply a spot‑on or oral flea preventive as recommended by a professional.
Maintain a clean environment to prevent reinfestation. Wash bedding, vacuum carpets, and treat the surrounding area with an appropriate insecticide or natural remedy (e.g., diatomaceous earth) according to label instructions. Regular grooming, combined with preventive medication, provides a reliable, home‑based solution for flea removal.