What to do against fleas on cats? - briefly
Apply a veterinarian‑approved flea treatment—topical, oral, or collar—and simultaneously clean the home by washing bedding, vacuuming carpets, and using an appropriate environmental insecticide. Consult your vet to confirm the correct product and dosage for your cat’s health and age.
What to do against fleas on cats? - in detail
Feline flea infestations require a systematic approach that combines immediate relief, long‑term control, and environmental sanitation.
Begin with rapid symptom relief. Apply a veterinarian‑approved topical adulticide directly to the cat’s skin at the base of the skull. Ensure the product is suited to the animal’s weight and health status. For cats unable to tolerate spot‑on treatments, a prescribed oral medication can be administered according to the dosing schedule on the label. In severe cases, a short course of a veterinary‑prescribed flea shampoo may be used to reduce adult populations on the animal’s coat.
After the initial kill, maintain protection. Schedule monthly applications of the same topical or oral product to interrupt the flea life cycle. Rotate products only when resistance is suspected, and always follow the veterinarian’s guidance on combination therapies.
Address the environment, where most immature stages develop. Vacuum all carpeted areas, upholstered furniture, and pet bedding daily for at least two weeks; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately. Wash all removable fabrics in hot water (minimum 130 °F) and dry on high heat. Treat the home with an EPA‑registered indoor flea spray or fogger, focusing on cracks, baseboards, and under furniture. Repeat the environmental treatment after seven days to target newly emerged fleas.
Prevent re‑infestation by limiting the cat’s exposure to outdoor sources. Keep the animal indoors, or, if outdoor access is necessary, use a flea‑preventive collar designed for cats. Regularly inspect the pet’s fur, especially behind the ears and along the tail, for signs of live fleas or flea dirt (tiny black specks). Use a fine‑toothed flea comb to remove any remaining insects and to monitor treatment efficacy.
Maintain overall health to support the cat’s immune response. Provide a balanced diet, keep vaccinations up to date, and schedule routine veterinary examinations. Discuss any underlying skin conditions or allergies that might exacerbate flea‑related irritation, and follow the veterinarian’s recommendations for adjunct therapies such as antihistamines or corticosteroids if needed.