Cat Fleas- How Do I Get Rid Of Them?

Contrary to popular belief, cats do not scratch or bite themselves if they are bitten by fleas. It is an allergic reaction to the saliva of the fleas which may cause your cat to scratch and react. If she does not have this reaction to the flea’s saliva, you may not be aware that she even has a flea infestation, which could be very dangerous for her.

Fleas need your cat’s blood to survive. Cats are fairly small animals, so their blood circulation can be diminished fairly rapidly by a large flea infestation. This can cause dehydration, anemia or even death if left untreated. Fleas can also transmit parasites such as tapeworms to your cat, and cause violent skin irritation. You should get into the habit of regularly checking your cat for fleas. This does not take too long and is quite easy;

Rub her coat against the natural flow of the fur. Ideally place her on a light colored surface, or maybe in a sink. If any black specks fall from her fur whilst you are rubbing, drop a small amount of water on them. If they are flea droppings, they will turn red- this means that your cat is infested. You can also try parting the fur around your cat’s neck or belly; you will see the black specks on the hair roots, and may even see a flea crawling out of reach.

How to treat a flea infestation? There are a lot of products on the market, including flea powders and sprays. However, cats do not tend to like the sprays, and application can result in some pretty impressive acrobatic techniques! I would personally recommend one that works by applying it to the back of your cat’s neck, as she will not even notice this. Flea combs can also be used to groom fleas out, and a flea collar can be used as prevention against re-infestation.

However, it is little use just treating your cat. You have to treat her environment too; the eggs and larvae of the flea can remain in carpets or upholstery and, once hatched, will re-infest your cat. Make sure you also use a spray specifically for treating household furnishings. You will soon have a happy, flea free cat!