How do flea bites on cats look? - briefly
Flea bites on cats appear as small, red or pink papules, often grouped near the tail base, neck, or abdomen, sometimes showing a tiny central punctum. They are usually itchy, prompting the cat to scratch or groom the affected area.
How do flea bites on cats look? - in detail
Flea bites on cats appear as small, red or pink spots, typically 1–3 mm in diameter. The lesions are often grouped in clusters of three to five, forming a linear or irregular pattern along the cat’s back, neck, tail base, and inner thighs. The skin surrounding each puncture may be slightly raised, giving a papular texture, and can become edematous if the animal scratches or licks the area.
Key visual characteristics include:
- Central punctum: a pinpoint opening where the flea’s mouthparts have penetrated.
- Peripheral erythema: a faint halo of redness that may spread outward.
- Secondary inflammation: occasional crusting or scabbing when the cat’s grooming irritates the bite.
- Distribution: higher concentration in warm, low‑hair regions such as the ventral abdomen and the groin.
In severe infestations, lesions may coalesce, forming larger, irregularly shaped plaques with marked alopecia. Secondary bacterial infection can produce purulent discharge and a foul odor, indicating the need for veterinary intervention.
Differential diagnosis should consider other ectoparasites and dermatological conditions, but the characteristic tri‑spot arrangement and predilection sites are distinctive for flea bite reactions. Early identification enables prompt treatment with topical or oral ectoparasiticides and anti‑inflammatory medication to reduce discomfort and prevent complications.