Is It a Good Idea to Shave off a Kitten's Hair if It Has Fleas?

A few fleas on a kitten, just like on an older cat, is a common occurrence. Often, the mama cat inadvertently brings fleas to her kittens. The problem, however, is that kittens are not mature and may suffer more when fleas are present. Therefore, recognizing your kitten has fleas and safely removing them helps keep your fur ball healthy on the inside and out.

  1. Signs and Symptoms of Fleas

    • Fleas on your kitten may cause him to itch profusely. In response to the itching, he may chew, lick or scratch. Red bumps on your kitten̵7;s skin and hair loss may also indicate he has fleas. If the infestation is severe, he may suffer from excessive blood loss and experience anemia. White or pale gums and lethargy are indications of anemia. Spots that look like dirt under your kitten̵7;s fur, especially around the ears and neck, are often flea eggs and waste from the fleas.

    Grooming

    • Some cat owners choose to shave their cats for various reasons. They may feel the summer is too hot for their feline and do a lion shave, or they may choose the spot shave method to battle fleas. However, shaving your kitten because he has fleas or any other reason is not recommended. The main reason is that kittens need their fur for warmth during the first several months of life. Removing their protective covering may cause them to suffer from hypothermia and possibly die.

    Alternative Flea Treatment

    • Visit your veterinarian for the best flea treatment for your kitten. The vet may prescribe a flea treatment you apply directly to your kitten's skin or an oral medication to kill the fleas. The key is killing the adult fleas then administering a follow-up treatment to kill the hatchlings. Also, some medications cause fleas to become sterile and no longer reproduce. Removing your kitten and treating the area where he stays with a kitten-safe flea spray is also recommended. Over-the-counter flea foggers work to kill any indoor fleas that may live inside your home. When using commercial products, always follow the manufacturer̵7;s directions and look for "kitten-safe" on the label.

    Prevention

    • Brush your kitten two or three times a week. Starting when he is young helps accustom him to brushing and gives you an opportunity to look for fleas. Vacuum your floors every day and remove any flea eggs in the carpet. Wash your kitten̵7;s bedding twice a week, even if you may not think it is dirty. Spray your yard with a commercial flea killer to prevent your kitten from coming in contact with them.