How to Relieve the Itching From Fleas on a Cat

Cats develop itchiness from fleas for a number of reasons; the actually fleas biting and moving are itchy and some cats are actually allergic to fleas. Getting rid of the fleas is the first step, but your cat may continue to itch even after you have gotten rid of the fleas, so relieving the itching requires a multilayered approach.

Things You'll Need

  • Flea shampoo
  • Flea comb
  • Flea preventative
  • Omega-3 supplement
  • Vacuum
  • Flea collar
  • Steam cleaner
  • Laundry detergent
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Bathe your cat with a flea shampoo. Do not submerge your cat's head or face. Instead, wipe it clean with a damp towel. Start washing your cat from the neck down, just behind the ears. This prevents fleas from running to your cat's head or face. Use a flea comb to remove eggs, fleas and larvae.

    • 2

      Apply a topical flea preventative to your cat and reapply it once monthly. In addition to this, comb your cat regularly to remove fleas, eggs and larvae.

    • 3

      Clean your house to remove fleas, eggs and larvae. Wash all cat toys and bedding in hot water. Put a flea collar in your vacuum and vacuum the whole house. Steam clean the carpets after an infestation and at least once each season.

    • 4

      Give your cat an omega-3 fatty acid supplement designed specifically for cats. Follow label instructions. You may also consider using a cat first aid spray for itchy skin and hot spots.

    • 5

      Administer an antihistamine such as Benadryl if your cat's flea itching is severe. Always consult your veterinarian before administering an antihistamine. Generally, the dose for cats is .25 to 0.5 mg per pound every 12 hours.