How to comb fleas off a cat at home? - briefly
Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on a slightly damp cat, beginning at the head and working toward the tail, brushing each area several times and wiping the comb on a damp cloth after each pass. Dispose of the collected fleas by immersing the comb in soapy water or flushing them down the toilet.
How to comb fleas off a cat at home? - in detail
Removing fleas from a cat with a comb can be performed safely and effectively without professional assistance. The process requires proper tools, a calm environment, and systematic technique.
First, select a fine‑toothed flea comb, preferably stainless steel, and ensure it is clean. Prepare a shallow container of warm, soapy water to place collected fleas and prevent them from escaping. Lay the cat on a non‑slippery surface, such as a towel on the floor, and gently restrain the animal using a second person if necessary. Keep the cat calm by speaking softly and offering a treat.
Proceed with the combing routine:
- Start at the head, moving the comb through the fur toward the tail in short, deliberate strokes.
- After each pass, dip the comb into the soapy water, tap it lightly to release trapped insects, and rinse.
- Pay special attention to areas where fleas commonly hide: neck, behind the ears, under the chin, along the spine, and the base of the tail.
- Repeat the motion for each body region until the entire coat has been examined.
If the cat’s fur is dense, part the hair with fingers or a wide-tooth comb before using the fine-toothed instrument. For long‑haired breeds, work in sections to avoid pulling. After the session, bathe the cat with a flea‑specific shampoo if recommended by a veterinarian, then dry thoroughly.
Maintain a regular schedule—daily combing for two weeks, then weekly checks—to break the flea life cycle. Clean the comb after each use with hot, soapy water, and disinfect weekly with a dilute bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water). Wash bedding, vacuum carpets, and treat the home environment with an appropriate insecticide to prevent reinfestation.