How can you tell if a kitten has lice? - briefly
Look for excessive scratching, a gritty feeling when you run a comb through the fur, and tiny white or brown nits attached to hair shafts or a fine, moving infestation visible on the skin.
How can you tell if a kitten has lice? - in detail
A young cat infested with lice shows distinct physical signs. Small, gray‑white insects may be seen moving along the fur, especially near the neck, ears, and tail base. These parasites are about the size of a grain of sand and cling tightly to hair shafts.
Typical symptoms include:
- Intense scratching or grooming that exceeds normal play behavior.
- Red, inflamed skin patches, often with a fine crust or scab formation.
- Visible nits (eggs) attached to hair shafts; they appear as tiny, oval, yellowish or brown specks.
- Hair loss in localized areas, creating thin or bald spots.
- A dry, flaky coat that feels rough to the touch.
To confirm an infestation, part the fur with a fine-toothed comb or a flea brush and examine the collected material under a magnifying glass. Live lice will move quickly, while nits remain immobile. A veterinarian can perform a microscopic slide test for definitive identification.
Treatment protocols involve:
- Applying a veterinary‑approved topical insecticide directly to the skin, following the product’s dosage instructions.
- Bathing the kitten with a medicated shampoo formulated for lice, ensuring thorough coverage of affected regions.
- Repeating the treatment after 7‑10 days to break the life cycle, as lice eggs hatch within this window.
- Cleaning the environment: washing bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water; vacuuming carpets and upholstery to remove stray insects and nits.
Preventive measures include regular grooming with a fine comb, routine veterinary check‑ups, and maintaining a clean living area free of stray animals that could introduce parasites. Early detection and prompt intervention prevent secondary skin infections and minimize discomfort for the kitten.