How can lice be removed from a cat at home? - briefly
Comb the cat with a fine‑toothed lice comb soaked in warm soapy water, pulling each insect from the fur. Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical treatment (such as selamectin or a pyrethrin spray) to eliminate any remaining parasites and prevent reinfestation.
How can lice be removed from a cat at home? - in detail
Lice infestations in felines require prompt, thorough action to prevent skin irritation and secondary infection. Begin with a careful inspection: part the coat with a fine‑toothed comb, looking for tiny, grayish insects and their nits attached to hair shafts near the base of the skin. Confirm the presence of lice before proceeding.
Materials needed
- Fine-toothed flea comb or lice comb
- Mild cat‑safe shampoo (e.g., formulated for sensitive skin)
- Diluted dish‑soap solution (1 % concentration) or a veterinary‑approved lice spray
- Soft cloth or gauze
- Warm water
- Disposable gloves
- Vacuum cleaner with HEPA filter
- Washable bedding and blankets
Step‑by‑step removal
- Isolation – Place the cat in a confined, safe area to limit movement during treatment.
- Bath – Wet the animal with warm water, apply the gentle shampoo, and lather thoroughly, especially around the neck, behind the ears, and the tail base. Rinse completely to avoid residue that could irritate the skin.
- Chemical aid – While the coat remains damp, apply a thin layer of the diluted dish‑soap solution using a cloth. The surfactant loosens the grip of the parasites, making them easier to extract. Allow the mixture to sit for 2–3 minutes, then rinse.
- Mechanical extraction – Using the fine-toothed comb, run it through the entire coat from head to tail, brushing against the direction of hair growth. After each pass, wipe the comb on a paper towel and inspect for captured lice or nits. Repeat until no insects are visible.
- Spot treatment – For areas where nits persist, apply a few drops of a veterinary‑approved lice spray directly to the skin, following the product’s dosage instructions.
- Environmental sanitation – Wash all bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and floors, disposing of the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately.
- Monitoring – Conduct daily comb checks for at least two weeks. If live lice reappear after the third day, repeat the bathing and combing cycle.
Preventive measures
- Maintain regular grooming sessions with a lice comb.
- Keep the living area clean and free of clutter where parasites can hide.
- Avoid contact with other infested animals until the infestation is cleared.
Adhering to this protocol eliminates adult lice, destroys eggs, and reduces the likelihood of reinfestation without professional intervention. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks or the cat shows signs of severe dermatitis, seek veterinary care.