How to remove lice from cats? - briefly
Use a veterinarian‑approved lice shampoo or topical treatment, following the product’s directions and ensuring thorough coverage of the coat and skin. After treatment, comb the fur with a fine‑toothed lice comb and clean bedding to prevent reinfestation.
How to remove lice from cats? - in detail
Effective elimination of feline lice requires a systematic approach that combines accurate diagnosis, appropriate medication, and thorough environmental sanitation.
First, confirm the infestation by examining the cat’s coat for tiny, grayish insects and their eggs attached to hair shafts. Look for itching, redness, or hair loss, especially around the neck, ears, and tail base. If uncertainty remains, obtain a veterinary evaluation for microscopic identification.
Choose a treatment based on the cat’s health status and age. Options include:
- Topical insecticidal solutions – apply a precise amount to the skin at the base of the skull, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Products containing pyrethrins or selamectin are common; follow the label dosage strictly.
- Oral antiparasitic tablets – administered with food, these agents (e.g., lufenuron or milbemycin) target lice systemically. Verify the cat’s weight to calculate the correct dose.
- Specialized shampoos – bathe the animal with a lice‑killing formula, ensuring the lather contacts the skin for the recommended contact time before rinsing thoroughly.
After medication, repeat the treatment according to the product’s schedule, typically every 7–10 days, to break the lice life cycle. Monitor the cat for adverse reactions such as excessive salivation, vomiting, or skin irritation; discontinue use and contact a veterinarian if symptoms appear.
Environmental control is essential. Wash all bedding, blankets, and grooming tools in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately. Treat the household with a low‑toxicity insecticide spray labeled for indoor use, focusing on areas where the cat rests.
Maintain regular grooming to detect any recurrence early. Schedule follow‑up examinations with a veterinary professional to confirm complete eradication and to discuss preventive measures, such as routine topical preventatives applied monthly.
By adhering to precise diagnosis, selecting the correct pharmacological agent, and implementing rigorous cleaning, lice infestations in cats can be resolved efficiently and safely.