How should a cat be combed for fleas? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed flea comb, separate the coat, and drag the comb from the skin outward, wiping the teeth after each pass. Concentrate on the neck, tail and belly, and repeat daily until no fleas are detected.
How should a cat be combed for fleas? - in detail
Effective flea removal from a cat requires a systematic approach that combines proper equipment, careful handling, and thorough inspection.
Begin by selecting a fine‑toothed flea comb designed for cats. The teeth should be spaced closely enough to catch adult fleas and their eggs while gliding smoothly through the coat. Prepare a shallow container with warm, soapy water or a damp towel to place captured insects, preventing them from re‑infesting the animal.
Before combing, calm the cat in a quiet room. Gently brush out tangles with a wide‑tooth comb to avoid pulling on the skin. Then, using the flea comb, start at the head and work toward the tail, moving in short strokes. Apply slight pressure to ensure the teeth penetrate the fur to the skin surface. After each pass, wipe the comb on the damp surface and repeat the motion.
Key areas to focus on include:
- Neck and behind the ears
- Base of the tail
- Abdomen and groin region
- Inner thighs
- Under the legs
These zones harbor the highest concentration of fleas. Inspect the comb after each pass; live fleas will appear as small, dark specks, while eggs and debris may cling to the teeth. Remove any captured insects promptly.
Following the combing session, bathe the cat with a veterinarian‑approved flea shampoo to eliminate remaining parasites. Rinse thoroughly and dry the coat. Apply a topical flea preventive as directed by a professional, ensuring the skin is clean and dry beforehand.
Repeat the combing routine daily for at least one week, as flea life cycles can span several days. Continue weekly checks for at least three weeks to confirm eradication.
Maintain a clean environment: vacuum carpets, wash bedding in hot water, and treat the home with an appropriate insecticide if infestation persists. These measures support the combing process and reduce the likelihood of reinfestation.