What should you do if cat fleas are biting you? - briefly
Treat the bites with anti‑itch lotion or antihistamine, wash the affected skin with soap and water, and immediately begin a thorough flea control program for your cat and home (vacuum, wash bedding, and apply a veterinarian‑approved flea product). If symptoms worsen or an infection appears, seek medical attention promptly.
What should you do if cat fleas are biting you? - in detail
Cat fleas that bite humans cause itching, redness, and occasional skin irritation. Immediate action reduces discomfort and prevents further infestation.
First, cleanse the affected skin. Wash the bite sites with warm water and mild soap, then apply a cool compress for ten to fifteen minutes to lessen swelling. Over‑the‑counter antihistamine tablets or topical corticosteroid creams can control itching; follow the product’s dosage instructions.
Second, eliminate the parasites from the cat and the environment.
- Bathe the cat with a flea‑specific shampoo, ensuring the fur is lathered for the recommended contact time.
- Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment (spot‑on, oral medication, or collar) according to the label.
- Treat the home: vacuum carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding thoroughly; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately.
- Wash all removable fabrics (bedding, blankets, clothing) in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Use a household flea spray or fogger that contains an insect growth regulator (IGR) to disrupt the flea life cycle; follow safety guidelines for occupancy and ventilation.
Third, monitor for secondary infection. If a bite becomes increasingly painful, shows pus, or the surrounding skin turns warm, seek medical evaluation. Persistent or widespread itching may require prescription medication.
Finally, adopt preventive measures to avoid recurrence. Maintain regular flea control on the cat—monthly treatments are standard. Keep the home environment clean, limit outdoor access where fleas are prevalent, and periodically treat the yard with appropriate insecticides if pets roam outdoors.
These steps address immediate symptoms, eradicate the source, and establish long‑term protection against flea bites.