How can you get rid of fleas from a cat and its kittens? - briefly
Use a vet‑approved flea treatment on the mother cat and wash all bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water; then, once the kittens are at least four weeks old, apply the same safe medication to them and treat the home with an appropriate flea spray or fogger. Repeat the process according to product instructions to break the flea life cycle.
How can you get rid of fleas from a cat and its kittens? - in detail
Treat the adult cat first. Use a veterinarian‑approved topical flea medication that is labeled for both cats and kittens older than four weeks. Apply the product to the nape of the neck according to the package instructions; the dose is based on the animal’s weight. If the cat is younger than four weeks, consult a vet for a safe alternative, such as a diluted flea shampoo or a prescription oral product.
Address the kittens separately. For kittens older than three weeks, a low‑dose topical treatment can be used, but it must be applied at half the adult dose. Kittens younger than three weeks should not receive chemical flea products; instead, bathe them with a mild, kitten‑safe flea shampoo and rinse thoroughly. After bathing, dry the kittens with a clean towel and keep them warm.
Control the environment to prevent re‑infestation. Wash all bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water (minimum 130 °F/54 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture daily; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister immediately. Apply a household flea spray or fogger that is safe for pets, following the label’s dwell time before allowing animals back into the treated area.
Treat the home’s outdoor zones if the cat has access outside. Trim grass and weeds, remove leaf litter, and consider applying a pet‑safe insecticide to shaded areas where fleas may hide. Install barriers such as screens or fences to limit the cat’s exposure to untreated environments.
Repeat the adult cat’s topical treatment after seven to ten days, as required by most products, to break the flea life cycle. Continue weekly treatments for at least one month, then transition to a long‑term preventive (monthly spot‑on, oral tablet, or collar) to maintain protection.
Monitor for signs of flea allergy or secondary skin infection. If excessive scratching, hair loss, or crusty lesions develop, seek veterinary care promptly. A vet may prescribe anti‑inflammatory medication or antibiotics in addition to flea control.