How to recognize lice on a cat? - briefly
«Lice» appear as small, grayish‑white insects moving on the skin, with their eggs (nits) visible as tiny white specks attached to hair shafts, especially around the neck, ears, and base of the tail. Persistent scratching, excessive grooming, and noticeable dandruff or crusty patches on the coat indicate infestation.
How to recognize lice on a cat? - in detail
Detecting a lice infestation in a feline requires careful observation of the animal’s coat, skin, and behavior. The parasite is a small, wingless insect that feeds on blood and can cause irritation, hair loss, and secondary infections.
Visible signs include:
- Tiny, elongated bodies about 1–2 mm long, often moving quickly across the fur.
- Light‑colored or darker nits attached firmly to hair shafts near the base, resembling small white or yellowish specks.
- Localized hair thinning, especially around the neck, tail base, and behind the ears.
- Red or inflamed skin patches, sometimes with crusts or scabs.
- Excessive scratching, grooming, or head shaking, indicating discomfort.
Physical examination steps:
- Part the fur with a fine‑toothed comb, starting at the head and moving toward the tail.
- Inspect the combed hair for adult lice, nymphs, or attached eggs.
- Examine skin folds, ears, and the ventral surface where lice tend to congregate.
- Use a magnifying lens if necessary to confirm the presence of the insects.
Behavioral indicators that may accompany infestation:
- Decreased appetite or weight loss due to chronic irritation.
- Restlessness or reluctance to lie down, reflecting ongoing discomfort.
- Increased vocalization when the animal is handled, especially around affected areas.
Laboratory confirmation can be obtained by collecting a hair sample with attached insects and submitting it to a veterinary diagnostic lab. Microscopic analysis will identify the species, allowing targeted treatment.
Prompt identification enables effective management with appropriate topical or systemic ectoparasiticides, reducing the risk of secondary skin infections and preventing spread to other animals.