What are lice on a cat called? - briefly
The louse that infests domestic cats is Felicola subrostratus, commonly known as the cat louse.
What are lice on a cat called? - in detail
Feline ectoparasites that belong to the order Phthiraptera are commonly referred to as cat lice. The two species most frequently encountered on domestic cats are Felicola subrostratus (the short‑tailed cat louse) and Felicola subpallidus (the long‑tailed cat louse). Both are chewing lice, meaning they feed on skin debris, hair, and occasional blood rather than sucking blood like fleas.
Life cycle
- Egg (nits) attached to hair shafts; incubation lasts 5–10 days.
- Three nymphal stages, each lasting 3–5 days, during which the insect molts and begins feeding.
- Adult stage persists 2–3 weeks, capable of reproduction throughout its lifespan.
Clinical signs
- Visible clumps of lice or nits on the coat, especially around the neck, head, and tail base.
- Excessive scratching, grooming, or hair loss in affected areas.
- Scaly or inflamed skin, occasionally with secondary bacterial infection.
Diagnosis
- Direct visual inspection of the coat and skin under good lighting.
- Use of a fine‑toothed comb to collect specimens for microscopic identification.
- Confirmation of species based on morphological features such as the length of the abdomen and the shape of the head.
Treatment options
- Topical insecticides containing pyrethrins, selamectin, or imidacloprid, applied according to manufacturer instructions.
- Oral ectoparasiticides (e.g., spinosad) for systemic control.
- Regular combing with a fine‑toothed lice comb to remove adult insects and nits.
Prevention strategies
- Routine grooming to detect early infestations.
- Maintaining a clean environment; vacuuming carpets and bedding reduces the risk of re‑infestation.
- Periodic administration of preventive ectoparasitic products, especially for cats that have outdoor access or live with other animals.
Understanding the taxonomy, life cycle, and management of cat lice enables effective control and minimizes discomfort for the animal.