How do I know if my cat has fleas?
The most common signs are scratching, over-grooming and tiny black specks in their fur. To check:
- Part the fur at the base of the tail, along the back and around the neck.
- Look for small, fast-moving brown insects, or black specks (flea dirt).
- Comb the fur over a damp white tissue. If the specks turn reddish-brown, it's flea dirt.
Other signs include thinning fur or bald patches from over-grooming, small scabs along the back, and itchy bites on you, usually around your ankles.
Can indoor cats get fleas?
Yes. Fleas and their eggs can come in on your clothes, shoes or other pets, and central heating keeps them breeding all year. Indoor cats in a house with a dog are especially likely to pick them up.
How do you get rid of fleas on a cat?
Treat your cat, every other pet and your home on the same day, then keep going for three weeks:
- Spray your cat's coat: use a flea and tick spray that's suitable for cats. Ours contains neem oil and can be used daily.
- Comb daily: a fine-toothed flea comb removes fleas and flea dirt. Dip it in soapy water as you go.
- Treat every pet: including dogs, so fleas don't jump between them.
- Wash bedding: wash your cat's bed, blankets and any throws they sleep on, on a hot wash.
- Vacuum daily for three weeks: carpets, sofas, cat trees and under furniture. Empty the vacuum outside.
- Keep going: new fleas hatch for several weeks, so keep up the routine until you stop seeing them.
For a heavy infestation, or if fleas keep coming back, use a licensed flea treatment made for cats alongside the spray.
Can I use dog flea treatment on my cat?
No. Some dog flea treatments contain permethrin, which is toxic to cats, even in small amounts. Never use a dog product on a cat, and keep cats away from dogs for a few hours after a dog has been treated. If your cat drools, twitches or trembles after a flea treatment, call your vet straight away.
Can I bathe my cat to get rid of fleas?
Most cats don't need bathing, and many find it stressful. Combing, a coat spray and treating your home are easier on your cat. If you do need to clean them, pet wipes are gentler than a bath. Don't use dog shampoo on cats.
Can kittens have fleas?
Yes, and fleas can make kittens poorly quickly, because they're so small. Speak to your vet before treating a kitten, as many products aren't suitable for young kittens.
How do I stop my cat getting fleas again?
Comb your cat once a week, especially from spring to autumn, wash bedding weekly and vacuum regularly. Keep every pet in the house on the same flea routine, so they don't pass fleas back and forth.
Related reading: Itchy skin in dogs and cats
