How to determine if a cat has lice? - briefly
Check the cat’s coat and skin for tiny, gray‑white insects or their oval, white nits stuck to hair shafts, focusing on the neck, tail base, and behind the ears. Notice excessive scratching, dandruff‑like debris, or redness, which commonly indicate an infestation.
How to determine if a cat has lice? - in detail
Lice infestations in felines present specific, observable indicators. Direct visual examination is the primary method of detection. Gently part the cat’s fur, beginning at the base of the tail and moving forward toward the head, using a fine‑toothed comb or a lice detection brush. Look for tiny, wingless insects measuring 1–2 mm, typically gray‑brown, attached to the skin or hair shafts. Adult lice may be seen crawling; nymphs appear as translucent specks. Also inspect for nits—oval, white or yellowish eggs cemented to hair shafts close to the skin.
Key signs to note include:
- Persistent scratching or grooming beyond normal levels
- Red, inflamed patches on the skin, especially around the neck, ears, and abdomen
- Hair loss or thinning in localized areas
- Presence of dark specks (fecal material) on the fur, which may appear as tiny black dots
Differentiating lice from fleas is essential. Fleas are larger (2–4 mm), jump when disturbed, and are typically found on the lower back and hind legs. Lice remain on the host and do not leave the animal’s body.
If visual confirmation is uncertain, collect a sample by placing a few combed hairs into a sealed container with a drop of mineral oil. The oil immobilizes the insects, facilitating microscopic examination. Submit the sample to a veterinarian for definitive identification.
Veterinary confirmation may involve skin scrapings or dermatoscopy. Once lice are confirmed, treatment options include:
- Topical insecticidal preparations specifically labeled for feline lice (e.g., selamectin, imidacloprid‑based solutions). Apply according to the product’s dosage chart, typically based on body weight.
- Oral systemic medications, such as selamectin tablets, administered as a single dose or repeated according to the label.
- Environmental control: wash bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (≥60 °C) and vacuum carpets and upholstery thoroughly.
Re‑treatment after 7–10 days may be necessary to eradicate newly hatched lice, as most insecticides do not affect eggs. Monitor the cat for two weeks post‑treatment, repeating the combing process to ensure no live insects remain.
Preventive measures include regular grooming, routine veterinary health checks, and maintaining a clean living environment. Early detection through routine fur inspection reduces the risk of severe infestation and secondary skin infections.