What to do with fleas on a cat? - briefly
Apply a vet‑recommended flea treatment—topical, oral, or collar—and clean the cat’s bedding and living area by washing fabrics and vacuuming thoroughly. Follow the veterinarian’s dosing schedule and repeat applications as instructed to eliminate the infestation.
What to do with fleas on a cat? - in detail
Fleas on a cat require a systematic approach: confirm infestation, treat the animal, address the environment, and maintain prevention.
First, examine the coat and skin. Use a fine‑toothed flea comb on a dampened area of fur; slide comb forward, then backward to capture adult insects. Look for small, dark specks (flea dirt) on the skin or bedding. If any are found, proceed to treatment.
Immediate cat treatment
- Choose a veterinarian‑approved product: topical spot‑on (e.g., fipronil, imidacloprid), oral tablet (e.g., nitenpyram, spinosad), or flea collar containing selamectin or imidacloprid. Apply according to label instructions; avoid mixing multiple products unless directed by a professional.
- Administer a short‑acting adulticide if heavy infestation is observed. Products such as nitenpyram provide rapid knock‑down within 30 minutes.
- Treat any secondary skin irritation with a mild antiseptic or prescribed medication; do not use human shampoos unless instructed.
Environmental control
- Wash all washable bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and dry on high heat. Heat kills all life stages.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery thoroughly; discard vacuum bag or clean canister immediately.
- Apply a household flea spray or fogger containing an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as methoprene or pyriproxyfen to prevent eggs from maturing. Follow safety guidelines and keep pets and people out of treated areas until dry.
- Treat outdoor areas where the cat frequents: use a pet‑safe yard spray with IGR and adulticide, repeat every two weeks for a month.
Ongoing prevention
- Maintain a regular schedule of the chosen flea control product; most spot‑ons require monthly reapplication.
- Inspect the cat weekly with a flea comb, especially after outdoor excursions.
- Keep the home environment clean; reduce clutter that can harbor flea eggs and larvae.
Monitoring and follow‑up
- Re‑examine the cat after 24 hours to ensure adult fleas are eliminated.
- Continue environmental treatments for at least three weeks, covering the full flea life cycle.
- Consult the veterinarian if signs of anemia, severe itching, or skin infection develop.
By combining direct animal treatment, thorough habitat decontamination, and consistent preventive measures, flea populations can be eradicated and future outbreaks prevented.