How to Fight Fleas on Your Cat

Fleas are a terrible nuisance for any pet owner. However, they are so much more than that to your cat. Fleas dig into your cat's skin, causing irritation, itching and often pain. Your cat will be constantly uncomfortable, and the problem will continue to get worse if you do not take the time to deal with it. Your first line of defense is fighting the fleas that are on your cat. Once your cat is flea-free, however, you must deal with exterminating them from your home.

Things You'll Need

  • Flea shampoo
  • Towel
  • Comb
  • Flea medication
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take your cat to the veterinarian at the first sign of fleas. Your vet can make sure there are no other health issues and that your cat does not have a flea allergy, which can be serious. Follow your vet's prescribed program for flea removal.

    • 2

      Flea bathe your cat using a flea shampoo that kills fleas at all stages of life. Wet your cat completely with water. Apply the flea soap to your cat's head first. If you start anywhere but the head, the fleas will attack your cat's face. Then, apply the flea soap to all other areas of the body.

    • 3

      Allow the flea soap to sit on your cat for 10 to 15 minutes, or for as long as the label on the flea shampoo recommends. Rinse your cat's fur thoroughly with water, and dry with a towel.

    • 4

      Run a comb through your cat's fur to continue to remove dying fleas after the flea bath. Comb through all your cat's fur several times.

    • 5

      Wait for your cat's fur to dry and then administer flea medication. You can get this medication from your veterinarian. Generally, it is applied between your cat's shoulders, where licking is impossible. This treatment needs to be given once a month to keep fleas away.