How to check if a cat has fleas or not? - briefly
Examine the cat’s coat and skin, looking for tiny, fast‑moving insects, dark specks of flea dirt, or irritated, red patches. Use a fine‑toothed flea comb to pull out any parasites and confirm their presence.
How to check if a cat has fleas or not? - in detail
Examine the animal’s coat closely. Part the fur from the neck to the tail, focusing on the belly, inner thighs, and base of the tail. Use a fine‑tooth flea comb; slide it through each section slowly. Fleas will be caught in the teeth, and the comb will also reveal small dark specks—flea feces (digested blood). Press the specks between a white paper and a damp cloth; a red stain indicates fresh flea dirt.
Observe the cat’s behavior. Frequent scratching, biting at the skin, or sudden bouts of agitation often accompany an infestation. Look for tiny red or black puncture marks on the skin, especially around the neck and lower back. These are typical bite sites.
Conduct a “white sheet test.” Lay a plain white towel on the floor, let the cat walk across it, then inspect the fabric for live insects or dark specks. The contrast makes detection easier.
If visual inspection is difficult, use a black‑light source in a darkened room. Flea feces fluoresce under ultraviolet light, revealing hidden infestations.
When any of the above signs are present, confirm the problem with a veterinarian. Professional diagnosis may involve microscopic examination of collected debris.
After confirmation, initiate treatment promptly:
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea medication according to the label dosage.
- Treat the environment: vacuum carpets, wash bedding in hot water, and use an appropriate household flea spray or fogger.
- Repeat the medication cycle as recommended, typically every 30 days, to break the flea life cycle.
Monitor the cat for at least two weeks after treatment. Continue regular comb checks and observe for renewed scratching or flea dirt. Consistent preventive measures—monthly medication and environmental hygiene—prevent re‑infestation.