How to get rid of fleas on a cat if nothing helps? - briefly
Administer a veterinarian‑approved oral flea medication together with a flea‑comb treatment, and simultaneously treat the home using a certified insecticide spray or fogger while laundering all bedding at high temperature. If infestations persist, arrange a professional pest‑control service and consider a prescription topical or injectable product.
How to get rid of fleas on a cat if nothing helps? - in detail
Treat the animal with a prescription‑only medication. Oral products such as afoxolaner, fluralaner or sarolaner provide systemic action that kills adult fleas and prevents reinfestation for weeks. Topical formulations containing selamectin or imidacloprid combined with pyriproxyfen work similarly when applied to the skin at the base of the neck.
If over‑the‑counter sprays, shampoos or powders have failed, obtain a veterinarian‑approved flea collar that releases active ingredients continuously. Ensure the collar fits correctly and is left in place for the recommended duration.
Clean the living environment thoroughly. Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and cracks in flooring; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately after use. Apply a residual insecticide approved for indoor use (e.g., a combination of pyriproxyfen and methoprene) to carpets and baseboards, following label instructions precisely.
Treat adjacent areas where the cat may travel, such as garages, sheds, or outdoor cat houses. Use a spot‑on product designed for outdoor use or a fogger that penetrates cracks and crevices. Repeat environmental treatments according to the product’s re‑application schedule, typically every 30 days, to interrupt the flea life cycle.
Consider a multi‑modal approach: combine systemic medication, a long‑lasting collar, and rigorous environmental control. Monitor the cat daily for signs of flea activity; repeat flea counts at two‑week intervals to verify efficacy. If infestations persist despite these measures, request a comprehensive diagnostic work‑up from the veterinarian to rule out resistance, secondary skin conditions, or underlying health issues that may compromise treatment.