How to help a cat and kittens infected with fleas? - briefly
Administer a veterinarian‑prescribed flea medication to the adult cat and each kitten, following dosage guidelines for age and weight, and repeat as directed to break the life cycle. Simultaneously clean bedding, vacuum carpets, and apply a safe environmental insecticide to prevent reinfestation.
How to help a cat and kittens infected with fleas? - in detail
Flea infestations cause irritation, anemia, and can transmit diseases, so swift intervention is essential for both the mother cat and her offspring.
Begin by confirming the presence of fleas on the adult cat and each kitten. Look for live insects, black specks (flea dirt), or excessive scratching. Examine the coat, especially around the neck, tail base, and abdomen, where fleas tend to congregate.
Treat the mother cat with a product labeled for adult felines. Options include:
- Spot‑on treatments applied to the skin at the base of the skull; they spread across the body through the skin’s oils.
- Oral tablets that kill fleas systemically; ensure the medication is approved for the cat’s weight and health status.
- Flea collars containing insecticidal agents; select a model offering at least one month of protection.
For kittens, safety is paramount. Use only products explicitly approved for kittens, typically those older than four weeks and weighing at least two pounds. Preferred methods are:
- Diluted flea shampoo applied briefly, followed by thorough rinsing.
- Low‑dose oral medications formulated for young cats; dosage must follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Avoid spot‑on treatments unless the label specifies use on kittens.
Sanitize the environment to prevent re‑infestation:
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Apply a household flea spray or fogger that targets eggs, larvae, and pupae; follow safety guidelines and keep pets out of treated areas until dry.
- Treat the yard or outdoor spaces with an appropriate insecticide, focusing on shaded, humid zones where flea development thrives.
Maintain long‑term protection by administering a monthly preventive to every cat in the household. Combine this with regular grooming, checking for fleas after outdoor excursions, and keeping the living area clean. Consistency eliminates the flea life cycle and safeguards the health of both the mother cat and her kittens.