Can Cats Get Fleas in the Winter?

Fleas are not just irritants to your cat; these insects can cause serious health problems for felines. Some of the most distressing skin problems for animals are caused by fleas. Small animals like kittens are especially susceptible. They can die from anemia caused by blood loss from fleas. Be aware that your pet can suffer from an infestation of these creatures even in the winter months.

  1. Flea Lifespan

    • Fleas can live up to 115 days on a cat. During this time, the female flea can lay 2,000 eggs. These eggs incubate in furniture and carpet for a few days or months. The incubation period depends on the house temperature. The ideal temperature for hatching is 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Since houses are warm, fleas can survive even in winter.

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    Flea Survival

    • Fleas do best in temperatures that are warmer, ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Most fleas winter either as adults on a host animal or as pupae in cocoons. Fleas can survive outside, however, in temperatures as low as 37 degrees. Since many areas have mild winters with temperatures above freezing, your cat may still catch fleas in winter months.

    Fleas Inside

    • Fleas need warm temperatures to mature. Nevertheless, fleas do survive during the winter months inside your home. Central heating is attractive to fleas. Warm and humid environments are excellent breeding grounds for these insects. Even in very cold winter climates, fleas will thrive inside your warm home.

    Flea Treatment

    • You should protect your cat by utilizing continuous year-round treatment. Continue your regular flea prevention program throughout the winter. It also is important to treat the cat's environment. Fleas live much of their lifecycle off your cat and in your carpet or furniture. If your cat does have a flea infestation, you also should treat all other pets and anything your animals have contact with in your home. Seek input from your veterinarian on which product would be most beneficial to use.