How to check for fleas on cats? - briefly
Inspect the coat by parting the fur around the neck, base of the tail, and belly, looking for live insects, dark specks, or tiny blood spots; run a fine-toothed flea comb through these areas to catch any parasites. Feel for irritation or frequent scratching as further signs of infestation.
How to check for fleas on cats? - in detail
Detecting a flea infestation on a cat requires a systematic visual and tactile examination. Begin by placing the animal on a clean surface where you can see the entire body. Use a fine‑toothed flea comb, preferably with metal teeth, to run through the fur from head to tail. Comb each area several times; a live flea will jump out, and a dark, oval speck (flea dirt) will appear on the comb.
Inspect the following regions closely, as fleas favor warm, protected spots:
- Neck and behind the ears
- Base of the tail
- Groin and inner thighs
- Abdomen, especially around the belly button
- Between the pads of the paws
While combing, feel for small, moving insects or for tiny black specks that resemble ground coffee. These specks are digested blood; they turn reddish when moistened with water, confirming flea presence.
If a comb is unavailable, gently part the hair with fingers and examine the skin. Look for:
- Live fleas, which are about 2–4 mm long, dark brown, and capable of rapid jumps
- Small, black particles (flea dirt) that may be embedded in the fur
- Red, irritated patches or small bite marks indicating recent feeding
For a thorough assessment, repeat the inspection after a few days, as fleas can hide in the environment and re‑infest the cat. Record any findings, noting the number of fleas, locations, and the presence of flea dirt, to guide treatment choices and monitor effectiveness.