How to Treat a Bad Case of Fleas in a Kitten

Various sorts of parasites are common in kittens, such as worms, ringworm, ear mites and, of course, fleas. Left untreated, fleas can cause serious health problems in your kitten. Always check with your vet before starting any course of treatment for fleas in a very young kitten, whose delicate system will not be able to deal with a large dose of strong chemicals.

Things You'll Need

  • Flea treatment
  • Kitten shampoo
  • Fine flea comb
  • Warm towel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your kitten to the vet to be examined. Your vet will confirm if your kitten has fleas and prescribe kitten-strength flea treatment such as Advantage or Frontline.

    • 2

      Read the manufacturer's directions for the flea treatment carefully before use and follow the guidelines for the dosage amount. For a newborn kitten, a maximum of two drops should be applied. The dosage can increase, up to several drops for a kitten of six weeks or older. Apply the drops to your kitten's back and use your thumb to spread it down its back bone in a straight line, right down to its tail. Wash your hands immediately afterward.

    • 3

      Lather vet-approved kitten shampoo onto your kitten's fur as an alternative, or as well as, a flea treatment. While the fur is wet, comb out the fleas with a fine flea comb. Rinse off the shampoo immediately afterward, using warm water. Keep water away from your kitten's eyes and ears. Dry it carefully with a warm towel.