How to bathe a cat infested with fleas? - briefly
Use a cat‑safe flea shampoo: wet the cat with lukewarm water, apply the shampoo, massage gently, then rinse completely and dry. Follow with a veterinarian‑recommended flea preventative.
How to bathe a cat infested with fleas? - in detail
Bathing a flea‑infested cat requires preparation, calm handling, and thorough rinsing to eliminate parasites without stressing the animal.
Begin by gathering supplies: a mild, cat‑specific shampoo, a large towel, a non‑slip mat, a cup or handheld sprayer, a flea comb, and a safe, warm environment. Keep the water temperature around 37 °C (98 °F) and fill the tub or sink only enough to wet the cat’s coat without submerging its head.
- Secure the cat – gently wrap the animal in a towel, leaving the torso exposed. This limits movement and protects the skin from scratches.
- Apply shampoo – lather the fur from neck to tail, avoiding the eyes and ears. Work the foam into the skin for at least one minute to dissolve adult fleas and their eggs.
- Rinse thoroughly – use a cup or sprayer to flush out all soap residue. Incomplete rinsing can irritate the skin and attract more parasites.
- Dry promptly – wrap the cat again in a dry towel, patting rather than rubbing to prevent matting. A low‑heat hair dryer on a gentle setting can be used if the cat tolerates it.
- Comb out remaining insects – run a fine‑toothed flea comb through the coat, starting at the neck and moving toward the tail. Dispose of captured fleas in a sealed container.
- Administer post‑bath treatment – apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea medication according to the product’s instructions. This step prevents re‑infestation.
- Clean the bathing area – wash all towels, mats, and containers with hot water and detergent. Vacuum the floor and wash any surfaces the cat contacted to remove fallen eggs and larvae.
Maintain a regular grooming schedule, inspect the coat weekly with a flea comb, and keep the living space clean to reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks.