How do fleas affect cats? - briefly
Fleas induce itching, skin irritation, anemia, and can transmit pathogens to felines. Severe infestations may cause allergic dermatitis and secondary infections.
How do fleas affect cats? - in detail
Flea infestation imposes several physiological and behavioral burdens on domestic cats. Adult fleas feed on blood, causing immediate skin irritation and triggering an inflammatory response. Biting sites often develop redness, swelling, and crusted scabs, especially along the neck, tail base, and lower back. Repeated feeding can lead to anemia, particularly in kittens, senior cats, or those with pre‑existing health conditions; blood loss of 15 % or more may produce lethargy, pale mucous membranes, and rapid heart rate.
Allergic reactions amplify the problem. Many cats develop flea‑induced allergic dermatitis (FAD), a hypersensitivity to flea saliva. Symptoms include intense itching, hair loss, and secondary bacterial infections. Scratching and grooming exacerbate skin damage, creating entry points for opportunistic pathogens such as Staphylococcus spp. and Pseudomonas spp., which can progress to cellulitis or deeper tissue involvement.
Fleas serve as vectors for several pathogens. The most common is Rickettsia felis, which can cause fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Another significant agent is Bartonella henselae, the causative organism of cat‑scratch disease; transmission occurs when fleas defecate on the cat’s skin and the animal scratches the contaminated area. Infected cats may remain asymptomatic carriers, posing a zoonotic risk to humans.
Reproductive capacity of fleas intensifies the threat. A single female can lay up to 50 eggs per day, depositing them in the cat’s fur and the surrounding environment. Eggs hatch into larvae within 24–48 hours, develop into pupae, and emerge as adults in as little as a week under optimal conditions. This rapid cycle leads to exponential population growth if untreated, increasing exposure for the host.
Control measures must address both the animal and its habitat. Effective strategies include:
- Topical or oral insecticidal products applied according to veterinary guidelines.
- Regular combing with a fine‑toothed flea comb to remove adult fleas and eggs.
- Bathing with veterinarian‑approved shampoos containing insecticidal agents.
- Environmental treatment: vacuuming carpets and upholstery, washing bedding at high temperature, and applying environmental insecticides or growth regulators in infested areas.
Monitoring is essential. Weekly inspection of the coat, especially after treatment, helps verify eradication. Blood tests can assess anemia, while skin scrapings or cytology confirm allergic dermatitis or secondary infections. Prompt veterinary intervention prevents progression to severe systemic illness and reduces the risk of zoonotic transmission.