I can't get rid of fleas on a cat — what to do? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical or oral flea treatment and repeat according to the product’s schedule; concurrently wash the cat’s bedding, vacuum all carpets, and use a home‑safe flea spray or fogger to eliminate remaining insects.
I can't get rid of fleas on a cat — what to do? - in detail
Fleas on a cat persist despite occasional treatments, indicating the need for a comprehensive strategy that addresses the animal, the household, and the surrounding environment.
Immediate relief for the pet involves a veterinarian‑approved anti‑flea product. Options include oral tablets, spot‑on liquids, and flea collars; each must match the cat’s weight, age, and health status. Follow the label dosage precisely, apply spot‑on treatments to the base of the skull, and allow the cat to remain dry for at least ten minutes before grooming.
A targeted bath can reduce adult insects. Use a flea‑specific shampoo, wet the cat thoroughly, lather for the recommended time, and rinse completely. After drying, run a fine‑toothed flea comb through the coat, starting at the head and moving toward the tail; wipe the comb on a damp cloth after each pass to remove captured fleas and eggs.
Environmental control eliminates immature stages that hide in bedding, carpets, and cracks.
- Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable fabrics in water ≥ 60 °C; dry on high heat.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery daily; empty the canister into a sealed bag outside the home.
- Apply an insecticide spray or fogger containing an adulticide and an insect growth regulator (IGR) to carpets, cracks, and baseboards; follow the product’s safety interval before re‑entering the treated area.
- Treat indoor furniture with a flea‑specific powder or spray, focusing on seams and cushions.
Preventive measures sustain the result. Administer a monthly flea preventive according to the veterinarian’s schedule, maintain regular cleaning routines, and keep outdoor cats separated from wildlife that may harbor fleas.
Monitoring continues for at least four weeks, covering the flea life cycle. Inspect the cat and its environment every few days; repeat topical or oral treatment after seven to ten days to kill newly emerged adults. Record findings to confirm the absence of live fleas, eggs, and larvae.
Consult a veterinarian if the cat shows signs of severe itching, skin infection, anemia, or if infestation persists after two weeks of combined treatment. Professional intervention may involve prescription‑strength products, systemic medications, or specialized environmental decontamination.