What to do if fleas are on a cat and kitten? - briefly
If your cat and kitten are infested, apply a veterinarian‑recommended flea treatment to each animal and immediately wash all bedding, vacuum the home, and use an appropriate environmental spray. Follow the vet’s dosage instructions and start a monthly preventive program to stop reinfestation.
What to do if fleas are on a cat and kitten? - in detail
If your adult cat and its kitten are suffering from a flea infestation, act promptly to eliminate the parasites and protect both animals and the household.
First, isolate the animals in a clean area to prevent spreading eggs. Bathe the adult cat with a veterinarian‑approved flea shampoo; the kitten, if younger than eight weeks, should not be bathed with chemical shampoos—use a mild, flea‑free soap or a veterinarian‑recommended dip for very young kittens. After washing, dry the fur thoroughly.
Next, apply appropriate topical or oral flea control products. For the adult, a spot‑on treatment containing ingredients such as fipronil or imidacloprid can provide rapid kill and residual protection. For the kitten, select a formulation labeled safe for its age and weight; many manufacturers offer a reduced‑dose version for animals under 12 weeks. Administer the medication exactly as directed, avoiding contact with the eyes, mouth, or open wounds.
Simultaneously, treat the environment to break the flea life cycle:
- Vacuum all carpets, rugs, and upholstery; discard the vacuum bag or empty the canister into a sealed bag.
- Wash bedding, blankets, and any fabric the cats have touched in hot water (≥ 130 °F) and dry on high heat.
- Apply a household flea spray or fogger that contains an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen; follow label instructions for safe use in homes with pets.
- Consider using flea traps with light and sticky surfaces to monitor residual activity.
Monitor the animals daily for signs of continued biting or irritation. If fleas persist after two weeks of treatment, schedule a veterinary examination. The vet may prescribe a prescription‑strength oral medication (e.g., nitenpyram) for rapid knock‑down, or recommend a different topical product to which the parasites have not developed resistance.
Finally, implement preventive measures to avoid future outbreaks:
- Maintain a regular monthly flea prevention regimen appropriate for both cat and kitten.
- Keep indoor areas clean and limit outdoor exposure during peak flea season.
- Treat all pets in the household simultaneously, even if only one shows symptoms.
By following these steps—immediate cleansing, targeted medication, thorough environmental control, and ongoing prevention—you can eradicate the current infestation and safeguard both the adult cat and its young companion from further parasite challenges.