How do I comb fleas out of a kitten? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on a damp kitten, gently part the fur and run the comb from head to tail, rinsing it after each pass. Dispose of the captured fleas in soapy water and repeat the combing daily until none are seen.
How do I comb fleas out of a kitten? - in detail
Removing fleas from a young cat with a fine‑toothed flea comb requires preparation, gentle technique, and follow‑up care.
First, choose a comb with teeth spaced 0.2–0.3 mm, designed for kittens. Have a shallow bowl of warm, soapy water and a clean towel ready.
Begin by calming the kitten in a quiet room. Hold the animal securely but gently, supporting the body with one hand while the other hand guides the comb. Start at the neck and work toward the tail, moving the comb in short, smooth strokes. After each pass, dip the comb in the water, tap it lightly on the bowl to dislodge trapped insects, and wipe the teeth clean.
Continue the process across all fur regions: back, sides, belly, legs, and especially the base of the tail where fleas congregate. Inspect the comb after each stroke; a flea or its feces appear as small dark specks.
When the session ends, bathe the kitten using a kitten‑safe flea shampoo, following the product’s instructions for dilution and contact time. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft towel.
Dispose of collected fleas by flushing them down the toilet or sealing them in a bag and discarding in the trash.
To prevent reinfestation, wash the kitten’s bedding, vacuum carpets, and treat the household environment with a veterinarian‑approved flea control product. Repeat combing daily for several days to catch any newly hatched fleas.
Monitor the kitten for signs of irritation or anemia; consult a veterinarian if excessive scratching, lethargy, or pale gums occur.
By adhering to these steps, fleas can be effectively removed from a kitten without causing stress or injury.