The Best Way to Get Rid of Fleas on Kittens

Kittens of all ages can develop a flea problem, either from other pets or from their environment. Newborn kittens catch fleas from mothers with a flea problem. Untreated fleas can cause anemia in kittens, causing dangerous complications. If a kitten with fleas becomes listless or its behavior changes, take it to a veterinarian immediately. Because kittens are still growing and developing, use caution with any chemicals you use for getting rid of fleas and ask your veterinarian for recommendations.

Things You'll Need

  • Flea comb
  • Water
  • Mild dishwashing soap
  • Spot flea medication (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Use your fingers or tweezers to remove fleas on newborn kittens. At this age, commercial products are too toxic and you should avoid bathing the kittens until they are a couple weeks older. Fleas can cause the most damage, including life-threatening anemia.

    • 2

      Bathe the kitten using only warm water and a few drops of mild dishwashing soap. Scrub the soap gently so no fleas get away. Rinse off the soap completely.

    • 3

      Dry the kitten and use a flea comb to remove any remaining fleas. Drown the fleas to keep any from escaping and potentially reinfecting the kitten later. Wash all of the kitten and other pets' bedding in hot water to kill any fleas. Treat all other pets for fleas as they can quickly spread.

    • 4

      Apply a spot flea treatment to kittens older than eight weeks for flea prevention. These products get absorbed quickly into the kitten's bloodstream and kill existing fleas within an hour. Do not use spot flea medications on younger kittens as it can be deadly.