How to treat lice on a cat? - briefly
Use a veterinary‑approved lice shampoo or topical insecticide, applying it as directed and repeating after 7‑10 days to interrupt the parasite life cycle, while washing bedding, grooming tools, and treating the home environment with a suitable insecticide spray. Consult a veterinarian for prescription options and precise dosage instructions.
How to treat lice on a cat? - in detail
Feline lice infestations are caused primarily by Felicola subrostratus, a chewing louse that feeds on skin debris and blood. Typical signs include excessive scratching, visible moving insects on the fur, and crusty or scaly patches, especially around the neck, head, and tail base.
Accurate diagnosis requires a thorough visual inspection and microscopic examination of plucked hairs. Collect several hairs with attached insects, place them on a glass slide with a drop of saline, and observe under low magnification. Confirmation of lice presence guides the choice of therapeutic measures.
Effective interventions fall into three categories:
- Topical insecticidal preparations containing pyrethrins, selamectin, or fipronil; apply directly to the skin after parting the fur, following label dosage.
- Medicated shampoos formulated with linalool or neem oil; wet the coat, lather, leave for the recommended contact time (usually 5‑10 minutes), then rinse thoroughly.
- Oral systemic agents such as milbemycin oxime; administer a single dose according to body weight, repeat after 14 days to interrupt the life cycle.
A step‑by‑step protocol for topical treatment:
- Restrain the cat gently, using a towel if necessary to prevent escape.
- Part the fur at the affected sites, exposing the skin.
- Apply the measured dose of the selected product, ensuring coverage of the entire body, including the underside of the neck and the base of the tail.
- Allow the cat to dry naturally; avoid bathing or excessive grooming for at least 24 hours.
- Repeat the application after two weeks to eradicate newly hatched lice.
Environmental control complements medication. Wash all bedding, blankets, and grooming tools in hot water (> 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets and upholstery, then discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister. Treat the household with a flea‑ and lice‑specific spray if infestation extends to the environment.
Monitoring continues for a minimum of four weeks. Re‑examine the cat weekly, looking for live insects or renewed skin irritation. If symptoms persist, consider a veterinary re‑evaluation to rule out secondary infections or resistance to the chosen product.