How can you get rid of fleas on a kitten using household means? - briefly
Give the kitten a lukewarm bath with a few drops of mild dish soap, rinse well, and dry thoroughly, then comb it with a fine‑toothed flea comb to remove any remaining insects. Wash all bedding and soft furnishings in hot water and sprinkle food‑grade diatomaceous earth around the sleeping area to prevent reinfestation.
How can you get rid of fleas on a kitten using household means? - in detail
Eliminating fleas from a young cat can be accomplished with items commonly found at home, provided the kitten is older than eight weeks and has received its initial vaccinations. Begin with a thorough cleaning of the environment, then move to safe topical treatments and physical removal methods.
First, prepare the living area. Wash all bedding, blankets, and soft toys in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry them on high heat. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery repeatedly, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately to prevent re‑infestation. Sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth—food‑grade, not the chemically treated type—on carpets and under furniture; leave it for 24 hours, then vacuum thoroughly.
Next, treat the kitten directly. Use a fine‑toothed flea comb, preferably stainless steel, and comb the fur gently from head to tail. After each pass, dip the comb in a solution of warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap, then wipe the fur to remove trapped insects. Repeat the combing session two to three times daily for one week.
If the kitten tolerates it, apply a diluted solution of apple cider vinegar (one part vinegar to three parts water) to the coat using a spray bottle. The acidity deters fleas without harming the animal’s skin. Avoid soaking the kitten; a light mist applied to the back and neck is sufficient. Allow the fur to dry naturally.
For an additional household remedy, create a mild saline rinse: dissolve one teaspoon of non‑iodized salt in two cups of lukewarm water. Bathe the kitten briefly, ensuring the solution reaches the skin but does not linger longer than a minute. Rinse with plain water and towel‑dry.
Maintain the flea‑free status by repeating the combing routine for at least two weeks, laundering any new bedding weekly, and keeping the home environment dry. Regular vacuuming and the occasional re‑application of diatomaceous earth will suppress any surviving eggs or larvae. If infestation persists after ten days, consult a veterinarian for professional medication.