How can fleas be removed from a domestic cat? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral insecticide, comb the cat daily with a fine‑toothed flea comb, and treat the home with an appropriate spray or fogger. Bathing the animal with «flea shampoo» and laundering bedding in hot water further reduces infestation.
How can fleas be removed from a domestic cat? - in detail
Flea infestation on a pet cat requires a systematic approach that combines immediate removal, pharmacological treatment, and environmental sanitation.
Immediate mechanical removal involves using a fine‑toothed flea comb several times a day. Each pass should start at the head and move toward the tail, isolating live insects on a white surface for disposal. Bathing with a cat‑safe flea shampoo accelerates killing of adult parasites; the shampoo must remain on the coat for the time specified on the label before rinsing thoroughly.
Pharmacological options include:
- Topical spot‑on products applied to the dorsal neck region; they spread across the skin and kill fleas for up to four weeks.
- Oral systemic agents administered according to body weight; they eliminate adult fleas within hours and interrupt the life cycle for several weeks.
- Collars containing insect growth regulators; they provide continuous protection for up to eight months.
Environmental control is essential because only a small fraction of the flea population resides on the animal. Effective measures are:
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; discard vacuum bags or clean canisters immediately.
- Apply an insect growth regulator spray or fogger to indoor areas, following manufacturer safety instructions.
- Treat outdoor resting spots (e.g., shaded garden areas) with a pet‑safe outdoor flea spray if the cat frequents them.
Monitoring continues for at least two months, the typical duration of the flea life cycle. Re‑application of topical or oral treatments should follow the product’s recommended schedule, usually every four weeks. If infestations persist despite proper use of over‑the‑counter products, veterinary consultation is required to obtain prescription‑strength medication or to assess for secondary skin infections.