At What Age Can a Kitten Wear Flea Collars?

A kitten infested with fleas could become anemic due to the parasites consuming its blood, according to the website VetInfo. However, using flea collars to get rid of fleas on young kittens can be problematic, because kittens have delicate nervous systems.

  1. Recommended Age

    • A kitten less than eight weeks old should never wear a flea collar or be treated with any other chemical flea-killing product. These products are too harsh for young kittens. Some brands recommend kittens be at least 12 weeks old before treatment.

    Cat Products

    • If a kitten is old enough to wear a flea collar, it should wear a collar that is made for cats. Never use a dog flea collar on a cat or kitten, because flea collars designed for dogs are not safe for cats.

    Expert Insight

    • According to the University of Iowa College of Veterinary Medicine, flea collars are not that effective in eradicating fleas on any animal. Using one on a kitten may pose more health risks than benefits.

    Environment

    • If a kitten is infested with fleas, treating the problem only by putting on a flea collar likely will not work. Fleas lay eggs in carpets and bedding, so the kitten will only become re-infested if you do not treat its environment as well.

    Alternative Method

    • VetInfo advises that a safe alternative way to rid young kittens of fleas is to bathe them with baby shampoo or mild dish soap and then comb out their fur with a flea comb twice a week over a two-week period.