What should you do if a cat has fleas? - briefly
Treat the cat with a veterinarian‑approved flea medication and simultaneously clean bedding, carpets, and the home environment. Follow the product’s treatment schedule and consult your vet for any necessary adjustments.
What should you do if a cat has fleas? - in detail
If your cat shows signs of a flea infestation—scratching, visible insects, or small dark specks in the fur—begin treatment immediately.
First, verify the problem. Use a fine‑toothed comb on a dampened area of the coat; fleas or their feces (tiny black grains) will appear. A veterinarian can confirm the diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions.
Next, apply a veterinarian‑approved adulticide. Options include topical spot‑on products, oral tablets, or a flea collar. Follow the label precisely: dose according to the cat’s weight, apply to a clean, dry spot on the back of the neck, and keep the animal indoors for the recommended period to allow absorption.
Simultaneously, address immature stages in the environment. Wash all bedding, blankets, and removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and cracks in flooring; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister afterward. Treat the home with an environmental spray or fogger that contains an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen; these agents prevent eggs and larvae from developing into adults.
If the cat spends time outdoors, treat the yard. Apply a targeted outdoor flea control product to shaded, moist areas where fleas thrive. Remove debris, mow grass regularly, and consider a barrier spray around the perimeter of the property.
Maintain prevention to avoid recurrence. Continue monthly topical or oral preventatives year‑round, even when fleas are not visible. Keep the cat’s grooming routine consistent, and inspect the coat weekly during peak flea seasons.
Should the infestation persist after two treatment cycles, consult the veterinarian for a possible prescription medication, combination therapy, or a reassessment of the cat’s health status.