How do I know if my cat has fleas?
A classic symptom of flea infestation is itching. Of course, every cat engages in grooming and scratches themselves from time to time. However, if you notice that your pet is scratching constantly, it could be a sign of flea infestation. Itching can also have many other causes, which you should definitely have checked by a veterinarian. Other signs of fleas include restless behavior, increased grooming, or reddish skin spots.
Flea comb test helps to detect fleas
The so-called flea comb test is a simple way to find out if your indoor tiger has fleas. For this, you need a flea comb (a discarded lice comb or regular brush will also work), white kitchen paper, some water, and of course, your cat or tomcat.
1. Comb the fur thoroughly, especially on the lower back and base of the tail.
2. Tap the comb over the white cloth and moisten it with some water.
3. If you see black specks that turn red when mixed with water and rubbed, this is a clear indication of flea infestation. These specks are digested blood that the fleas excrete.
What are fleas anyway?
Fleas are insects and are known as ectoparasites that feed on blood. They are equipped with strong jumping legs and can jump up to half a meter. The cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis) *does not only infest cats. It also feels comfortable on many other host animals, including humans. The downside is that females can lay several hundred eggs in just a few weeks. These eggs fall relatively quickly from the fur and spread in the environment.
Where did my cat get fleas?
Your apartment is clean, and your cat grooms itself regularly - so where did it catch the fleas? Most often, fleas are brought in from outside. If your furry friend is an outdoor cat, it is quite possible that they come into contact with fleas. Even four-legged visitors can bring fleas with them. The little critters are not host-specific, so the dog flea can jump to your cat and vice versa.
But we ourselves can also bring fleas into the apartment through our shoes or clothing. Therefore, you should also consider fleas if your indoor cat is experiencing itching.
"Just" a small flea bite?
Are you wondering if flea infestation really poses a big problem? When a flea bites your pet, it damages the skin, and the flea secretes saliva and substances that prevent blood clotting (so-called anticoagulants). This causes itching and inflammation of the skin. Some furry friends react allergically to the saliva of these critters and may show severe symptoms even with a low flea infestation.
Additionally, fleas can transmit pathogens such as tapeworms or caliciviruses. Since fleas suck blood, it can lead to anemia in very small and young kittens, which can be life-threatening in the worst case.
Fleas do not spare us humans either, and the little critters can be transmitted from your cat to you. Therefore, flea infestation should never be taken lightly.
What can I do about flea infestation?
If you and your veterinarian have determined that your pet has fleas, you will find a solution together. There are various medications for treating fleas that you can use as spot-on, spray, or tablet. Please never use the same anti-flea products for your dog and your cat, unless the product is labeled for both. There are active ingredients like permethrin that are great for dogs, but unfortunately, they can cause severe side effects in cats because they lack the enzyme needed for metabolism.
In addition to your indoor tiger, you should definitely treat your home as well. Because the largest portion of a flea infestation consists of 50% flea eggs. These are mainly distributed in the environment and hide in all nooks and crannies. It is therefore very important to treat not only your cat but also the surroundings to truly eliminate fleas.
This means for you:
- Wash all textiles that your pet comes into contact with at 60 °C if possible.
- Consider where your furry friend spends a lot of time (basket, scratching post) and clean everything you cannot wash.
- Vacuum your apartment or house thoroughly several times, especially all corners and nooks, as well as carpets, sofas, and beds.
In specialty stores, there are many products, known as insecticides against fleas. Get advice and make sure that the product is effective against all developmental stages. This way, you and your furry friend can hopefully overcome the flea infestation quickly.
Can I prevent flea infestation?
Good news: Yes, you can. As you just read, treating fleas is laborious and only successful with proper environmental treatment. It is better to avoid getting fleas in the first place. There are many different preparations for flea prevention with varying durations of action. Get veterinary advice to find the right product for your furry friend.
As a small tip: Ideal for distracting your furry friend while you apply anti-flea treatment are our →Cream Snacks.
