What do flea bites look like on cats? - briefly
Flea bites on felines appear as tiny, red, raised spots, frequently clustered around the neck, base of the tail, and inner thighs; they may be surrounded by a pale halo and are often accompanied by intense scratching. The lesions can develop into small, inflamed pustules if the cat’s skin becomes secondary infected.
What do flea bites look like on cats? - in detail
Flea bites on felines present as small, reddish‑brown punctures typically located on the lower abdomen, inner thighs, and base of the tail. The lesions are often grouped in clusters of two or three, reflecting the flea’s feeding pattern. Each bite may develop a central dot surrounded by a halo of inflammation that can become raised and itchy.
Common characteristics include:
- Size: 1–2 mm in diameter.
- Color: pink to dark red, sometimes progressing to a brownish hue as the wound ages.
- Texture: smooth surface that may swell slightly; secondary crusting can appear if the cat scratches.
- Distribution: linear rows or irregular clusters, frequently on areas the cat cannot easily groom.
In some cases, the bite site exhibits a tiny, dark puncture at the center, indicating the flea’s mouthparts. The surrounding tissue often shows mild edema, which may intensify after repeated exposure, leading to a broader area of redness.
If the cat is allergic to flea saliva, the reaction can expand beyond the immediate bite. Signs of an allergic response involve:
- Larger, raised welts (often called “flea allergy dermatitis”).
- Excessive itching, prompting self‑trauma and hair loss.
- Secondary bacterial infection, evident as pus‑filled pustules or crusted lesions.
Differentiating flea bites from other dermatological issues requires attention to the typical location and pattern described above. Regular inspection of the coat, especially around the tail base and belly, helps confirm the presence of flea‑induced lesions. Prompt flea control and topical treatment reduce the severity and prevent chronic skin problems.