How can fleas be combed out of a cat? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on a dry coat, starting at the head and moving toward the tail, cleaning the comb after each pass and discarding any captured insects. Repeat the process daily until no fleas are visible, and supplement with a veterinarian‑approved treatment for full eradication.
How can fleas be combed out of a cat? - in detail
Begin by selecting a fine‑toothed flea comb, preferably one with metal teeth spaced 0.2‑0.3 mm apart. Use a comb designed specifically for flea removal; plastic variants tend to bend and miss parasites.
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Prepare the cat – Choose a calm environment, preferably after a brief play session to reduce stress. Place the animal on a non‑slipping surface, such as a towel on a hard floor. Have a bowl of water or a damp cloth nearby to moisten the fur lightly; this immobilizes fleas and makes them easier to catch.
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Apply a light conditioner – A few drops of a pet‑safe detangling spray or a small amount of diluted aloe gel reduce static and allow the comb to glide smoothly. Avoid scented products that might irritate the cat’s skin.
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Comb systematically – Start at the head, moving toward the tail. Work in sections of 2–3 cm, pulling the comb through the coat from skin to tip with steady pressure. After each stroke, wipe the teeth on a white paper towel to reveal any captured insects. Continue until the entire body, including the neck, back, belly, legs, and tail base, has been examined.
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Collect and dispose – Transfer captured fleas into a container of soapy water; the soap destroys the exoskeleton. Seal the container and discard it in an outdoor trash bin.
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Repeat the process – Perform combing at least twice daily for a week, as flea life cycles can produce new adults within 24–48 hours. Consistency prevents reinfestation.
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Complementary measures – After the combing regimen, wash the cat’s bedding, vacuum carpets, and treat the home environment with a veterinarian‑approved flea spray or fogger. Maintain regular grooming to keep the coat free of debris that could shelter parasites.
By following these steps, fleas are mechanically removed from the animal’s fur, reducing the need for chemical treatments and minimizing irritation. The method relies on thorough, repeated combing combined with immediate disposal of the insects and environmental control.