How to see fleas on a cat? - briefly
Inspect the cat’s coat under bright light, part the fur near the neck and base of the tail, and look for tiny, dark, fast‑moving insects or flea dirt (tiny black specks). Run a fine‑toothed flea comb through the same areas; fleas will become trapped in the comb or fall onto a white surface for easy identification.
How to see fleas on a cat? - in detail
Detecting fleas on a cat requires systematic visual and tactile examination. Begin by placing the animal on a white towel or sheet; the contrast highlights any small, dark insects or specks of flea dirt. Run a fine‑toothed flea comb through the fur, starting at the head and moving toward the tail, paying special attention to the neck, behind the ears, under the legs, and at the base of the tail. After each pass, wipe the comb on a white surface to reveal captured fleas or dark fecal pellets.
Use a bright flashlight or a handheld magnifier to inspect the skin for tiny, moving parasites. Fleas are 1–3 mm long, dark brown, and may jump when disturbed. Look for the following indicators:
- Flea dirt (small black specks resembling pepper) that turns reddish when moistened, confirming the presence of digested blood.
- Red or inflamed patches, especially around the tail base and lower back.
- Excessive scratching, biting, or grooming behavior.
- Small, mobile insects moving on the coat or falling onto the towel.
If initial inspection yields no visible fleas, repeat the combing process daily for three consecutive days, as fleas may be in different life stages. For thoroughness, bathe the cat with a mild, flea‑safe shampoo, then repeat the combing while the coat is still damp; moisture immobilizes fleas, making detection easier.
Document findings: count the number of fleas captured, note the locations where they were found, and record any skin lesions. This data guides treatment decisions, such as topical or oral flea control products, and informs follow‑up inspections to verify eradication.