How should I comb fleas off a kitten? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on a gently dampened kitten, starting at the head and moving toward the tail, brushing each stroke lightly to trap fleas. After each pass, dip the comb in soapy water to kill captured insects and continue until no fleas remain.
How should I comb fleas off a kitten? - in detail
Removing fleas from a young cat requires a fine‑toothed flea comb, a calm environment, and a systematic approach. The comb must have teeth spaced 0.2–0.3 mm apart to catch adult fleas and their eggs without injuring delicate skin.
Begin by selecting a quiet room free of distractions. Place a soft towel on a flat surface to keep the kitten comfortable and to catch dislodged insects. Have a bowl of warm water nearby for immediate rinsing of the comb after each pass. Prepare a container with a lid for collected fleas; adding a few drops of dish soap will immobilize them.
The combing procedure follows a consistent pattern:
- Hold the kitten gently but securely, supporting the body with one hand while the other guides the comb.
- Start at the head, moving the comb slowly toward the tail, ensuring each tooth contacts the fur.
- Apply light pressure to pull out fleas, then lift the comb and tap it over the water bowl to release captured insects.
- Repeat the process on the back, sides, and especially the neck and tail base, where fleas tend to congregate.
- After each thorough pass, rinse the comb in warm water, wipe with a clean cloth, and continue until no additional fleas appear.
Following combing, bathe the kitten with a mild, kitten‑safe flea shampoo if tolerated. Rinse thoroughly to remove any residual shampoo and dead insects. Dry the animal with a soft towel and keep it warm until fully dry.
Environmental control prevents re‑infestation. Wash bedding, blankets, and any fabrics the kitten contacts in hot water (minimum 60 °C). Vacuum carpets and upholstery, discarding the vacuum bag or cleaning the canister immediately. Consider applying a veterinarian‑approved environmental flea spray to areas where the kitten spends time.
Safety considerations include avoiding excessive force on the skin, monitoring the kitten for signs of stress or skin irritation, and consulting a veterinarian before using chemical treatments. Regular combing, ideally once daily during an active infestation, combined with proper hygiene, eliminates fleas efficiently and safeguards the kitten’s health.