Why are fleas harmful to cats? - briefly
Fleas cause anemia, skin irritation, and transmit parasites such as tapeworms, which can lead to severe health problems in felines. Their bites also provoke allergic reactions that may result in intense itching and secondary infections.
Why are fleas harmful to cats? - in detail
Fleas feed on cat blood, causing rapid loss of red cells. Even a modest infestation can produce anemia, especially in kittens or underweight animals, because each flea consumes a measurable volume of blood multiple times a day. Clinical signs include pale mucous membranes, weakness, and rapid breathing.
The insect’s saliva contains proteins that trigger an allergic reaction in many felines. This hypersensitivity manifests as intense itching, hair loss, and crusted skin lesions. Scratching creates openings for bacteria, leading to secondary pyoderma that may require antibiotic therapy.
Fleas serve as vectors for several pathogens. They transmit Bartonella henselae, the agent of cat‑scratch disease, and can carry tapeworm eggs (Dipylidium caninum). Infected cats may develop fever, lymphadenopathy, or gastrointestinal disturbances. Some fleas also harbor Rickettsia species, which can cause systemic illness.
Infestations aggravate existing dermatological conditions. Cats with feline allergic skin syndrome experience amplified symptoms when flea bites compound other allergens. The resulting inflammation compromises the skin barrier, increasing susceptibility to fungal infections such as Malassezia overgrowth.
Heavy flea loads impose physiological stress. Constant irritation elevates cortisol levels, potentially suppressing immune function. Chronic stress can exacerbate behavioral problems, including aggression or withdrawal.
Control measures must address all life stages. Effective regimens combine adulticide treatment, eggs and larvae disruption, and environmental sanitation. Regular monthly topical or oral preventatives interrupt the feeding cycle, preventing blood loss and disease transmission. Vacuuming carpets and washing bedding remove dormant stages, reducing reinfestation risk.
Early detection and prompt intervention limit the severity of health impacts. Regular inspection of the coat, especially behind the ears and along the tail base, enables rapid identification of flea activity before systemic effects develop.