What is the name of a flea comb? - briefly
The tool is called a flea comb («flea comb»), a fine‑toothed grooming comb used to remove fleas and debris from a pet’s coat.
What is the name of a flea comb? - in detail
The grooming instrument commonly referred to as a «flea comb» is a handheld tool designed to extract fleas, eggs, and debris from an animal’s coat. It consists of a narrow base supporting a row of closely spaced teeth that grip and pull parasites from fur.
Key characteristics:
- Tooth spacing: typically 0.2–0.5 mm, sufficient to catch adult fleas while allowing hair to pass.
- Tooth shape: triangular or trapezoidal, providing a cutting edge that lifts parasites without tearing hair.
- Length: 10–20 cm, offering reach for larger animals and control for small pets.
- Grip: ergonomic handle, often rubberized for slip resistance.
Materials vary according to durability and flexibility. Stainless‑steel teeth resist corrosion and maintain sharpness; plastic variants are lighter and less costly but may dull faster. Some models combine metal teeth with a plastic or wooden handle to balance strength and comfort.
Effective use follows a systematic process:
- Part the coat with fingers or a brush to expose the underlying layer.
- Drag the comb through the hair from skin outward, applying gentle pressure.
- After each pass, wipe the teeth on a damp cloth to remove captured fleas.
- Repeat across the entire body, focusing on areas where parasites concentrate, such as the neck, tail base, and underbelly.
Cleaning the tool after each session prevents reinfestation. Rinse metal teeth with warm, soapy water; plastic components may be disinfected with a diluted bleach solution. Dry thoroughly before storage to avoid rust or mold growth.
Regular application of a «flea comb» complements preventive treatments, reducing parasite load and minimizing the risk of skin irritation.