How to combat lice on cats? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral pediculicide and clean all bedding, grooming tools, and the living area with hot water, repeating the treatment according to the product’s schedule.
How to combat lice on cats? - in detail
Feline lice infestations require prompt identification, effective treatment, and thorough environmental management.
Initial assessment involves visual inspection of the coat, especially the neck, back, and tail base. Adult lice appear as small, wingless insects; nymphs and eggs (nits) attach to hair shafts. Excessive scratching, hair loss, and crusty skin indicate a moderate to severe problem.
Therapeutic options:
- Topical insecticides formulated for cats, such as pyrethrin‑based shampoos or spot‑on solutions. Apply according to label directions, ensuring coverage of the entire body and avoiding the eyes and mouth.
- Oral medications containing spinosad or lufenuron. These agents disrupt the life cycle of lice and provide systemic protection.
- Prescription‑only products, including selamectin or moxidectin, administered by a veterinarian for resistant cases.
Treatment protocol:
- Administer the chosen product to the cat, repeating the dose after 7–10 days to target newly hatched lice.
- Bathe the animal with a gentle, lice‑specific shampoo immediately before the first application to remove debris and improve product efficacy.
- Monitor the coat daily for remaining insects; persist with the second dose if any live lice are observed.
Environmental control measures:
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and grooming tools in hot water (≥60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks where fallen lice or nits may accumulate; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward.
- Apply a safe, indoor insecticide spray to areas where the cat spends time, following manufacturer safety guidelines.
Preventive practices:
- Schedule regular veterinary examinations to detect early infestations.
- Maintain a clean living environment, reducing the likelihood of re‑infestation.
- Use long‑acting preventative treatments during seasons of higher parasite activity.
If symptoms persist after two treatment cycles, seek veterinary reassessment to rule out secondary infections or alternative ectoparasites.