What to do if a person has fleas from cats? - briefly
Treat the infestation by washing bedding and clothing in hot water, applying a veterinarian‑approved flea product to the cat, and using a household insecticide spray on carpets and furniture; if skin irritation continues, take an antihistamine or seek medical advice.
What to do if a person has fleas from cats? - in detail
If a person becomes infested with fleas after handling a cat, swift action is required to eliminate the parasites and prevent secondary skin irritation.
First, cleanse the skin thoroughly. Take a hot shower using a flea‑specific or medicated shampoo; lather the entire body, paying special attention to hair‑covered areas, then rinse completely. After drying, apply an over‑the‑counter topical insecticide approved for human use, following the package directions precisely. If itching or rash develops, a mild corticosteroid cream may reduce inflammation, but a medical professional should be consulted for any severe reaction.
Second, address clothing, linens, and personal items. Place all worn garments, towels, and bed sheets in a sealed plastic bag for at least 48 hours, then launder them in hot water (≥ 60 °C) with detergent. Items that cannot be washed should be stored in a sealed container for several weeks, as adult fleas cannot survive without a blood meal.
Third, treat the feline source and its surroundings. Administer a veterinarian‑approved flea control product to the cat—topical spot‑on, oral tablet, or a long‑acting collar—ensuring the dosage matches the animal’s weight. Simultaneously, vacuum all carpeted areas, upholstered furniture, and cracks in flooring; discard the vacuum bag or clean the canister immediately. Apply an environmental insecticide spray or fogger labeled for indoor flea control, covering baseboards, under furniture, and pet bedding. Repeat treatment according to the product’s residual schedule, typically every two weeks for a month.
Fourth, implement preventive measures to avoid re‑infestation. Maintain regular flea prophylaxis for the cat, schedule quarterly veterinary checks, and keep the home environment clean. Use washable pet bedding and rotate household rugs to expose hidden eggs. For personal protection, wear long sleeves when handling pets in heavily infested areas and wash hands thoroughly after contact.
If symptoms such as fever, severe dermatitis, or signs of infection appear, seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider can prescribe systemic antiparasitic medication or antibiotics if secondary bacterial infection is present.