How to wash a cat with fleas? - briefly
Prepare a mild cat‑safe shampoo and lukewarm water, gently wet the animal, apply the shampoo, massage for several minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Use a flea comb to remove dead insects and apply a veterinarian‑approved topical treatment.
How to wash a cat with fleas? - in detail
Cleaning a flea‑infested cat requires preparation, proper products, and careful handling.
Select a mild, veterinary‑approved flea shampoo. Avoid human shampoos that can irritate feline skin. Prepare lukewarm water in a basin large enough for the cat to stand without feeling trapped.
Gather supplies before starting: flea shampoo, a soft brush, a towel, a cup for rinsing, and a comb with fine teeth. Place a non‑slip mat at the bottom of the basin to prevent slipping.
Begin by gently brushing the coat to remove loose debris and adult fleas. This step reduces the number of insects that could be washed away during the bath.
Apply shampoo as follows:
- Wet the cat’s body, avoiding the head and ears.
- Dispense a small amount of shampoo onto the paws, then massage into the fur, working from the neck toward the tail.
- Ensure coverage of areas where fleas hide: under the belly, around the tail base, and between the toes.
- Lather for the time specified on the product label, typically 3–5 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, using a cup to pour water over the body while keeping the head dry. Confirm that no residue remains, as leftover shampoo can cause skin irritation.
After rinsing, wrap the cat in a towel and gently pat dry. Use a low‑heat hair dryer only if the cat tolerates it; otherwise, allow air drying in a warm, draft‑free area.
Dispose of used water and clean the basin to prevent re‑infestation.
Post‑bath actions:
- Apply a veterinarian‑recommended flea preventative (topical, oral, or collar) within 24 hours.
- Comb the coat with a fine‑tooth flea comb daily for a week to capture any remaining parasites.
- Monitor the cat’s behavior and skin condition; contact a veterinarian if excessive scratching or redness persists.
Following this systematic approach eliminates fleas effectively while safeguarding the cat’s health.