How can fleas be combed out of a kitten? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on a dry kitten, starting at the head and moving toward the tail, brushing each stroke gently and wiping the teeth with a damp cloth after each pass. Repeat every few hours and dispose of captured fleas in soapy water to prevent reinfestation.
How can fleas be combed out of a kitten? - in detail
Removing fleas from a young cat with a fine-toothed comb requires preparation, technique, and follow‑up care. The process begins with selecting the proper tool: a stainless‑steel flea comb with teeth spaced 0.2–0.3 mm. Before combing, bathe the kitten in a mild, kitten‑safe shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and dry gently with a towel. The heat from the bath opens the skin’s pores, making it easier to dislodge parasites.
Step‑by‑step procedure
- Environment – Place a clean, flat surface covered with a white towel or paper. The contrast helps spot fleas and debris.
- Comb position – Hold the kitten securely but gently, supporting the neck and back. Keep the animal calm; a soothing voice reduces stress.
- Combing motion – Starting at the head, run the comb through the fur toward the tail in a smooth, forward stroke. After each pass, wipe the teeth on a damp cloth and tap the comb to release captured insects.
- Repeated passes – Perform at least three passes over each body region: neck, ears, chest, belly, legs, and tail base. Pay extra attention to areas where fleas congregate, such as the base of the tail and under the chin.
- Inspection – After each session, examine the towel for live fleas, eggs, or blood‑stained debris. Dispose of captured insects by flushing them down the toilet or sealing them in a bag.
- Cleaning the comb – Rinse the comb in hot, soapy water after use, then sterilize by soaking in a 10% bleach solution for five minutes, followed by a thorough rinse.
After‑care considerations
- Bath frequency – Repeat the combing routine every 24 hours for a week, then reduce to every other day for another week to break the flea life cycle.
- Environmental control – Wash bedding, blankets, and any fabrics the kitten contacts in hot water (≥ 60 °C). Vacuum carpets and upholstery, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister.
- Preventive products – Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea preventive once the kitten reaches the minimum weight specified on the product label. Do not use adult‑dose treatments on a young animal.
- Health monitoring – Observe the kitten for signs of irritation, anemia, or allergic reactions. If excessive scratching, lethargy, or skin lesions develop, seek veterinary evaluation promptly.
By adhering to this systematic combing method, combined with hygiene measures and appropriate preventive medication, a kitten can be cleared of fleas efficiently and safely.