How to Determine If a Cat Has Fleas

If you suspect that your cat may have gotten a flea infestation, the single most important thing you can do is take it to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Sometimes you can see the fleas on your pet's skin, but more often, you'll suspect fleas because of marked changes in your cat's behavior and signs of discomfort. While there are steps you can follow to help determine if your cat probably has fleas, you should always follow up with a trip to a trained professional.

Things You'll Need

  • Magnifying glass
  • Fine-toothed metal comb
  • Damp white cotton rag
  • Vacuum cleaner
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Instructions

    • 1

      Examine your cat's coat for evidence of fleas. You may see some fleas on parts of your cat where the fur is less dense, such as on its belly. You can use the magnifying glass for a better view. Fleas are usually small, about the size of a pinhead, and may be black or brown.

    • 2

      Run a fine-toothed metal comb through your cat's coat and examine the comb in the light. Concentrate heavily on the neck, back, hind legs and area around your cat's tail. If you see fleas on the comb, your cat probably has more hidden in its coat.

    • 3

      Rub your cat's back vigorously with a white cotton rag and look for signs of fleas on the rag. If your cat has an infestation, you may see actual fleas, small drops of blood from bites, or dark brown, pepper-like flecks of flea feces.

    • 4

      Vacuum carpeted areas of your home thoroughly. Open the vacuum bag or inner chamber and look for signs of fleas or larvae. If you spot any, your cat probably has a flea infestation.

    • 5

      Pay attention to behavioral signs that something may be wrong with your cat. Common signs of fleas on a cat include scratching or biting its coat more than usual or grooming itself excessively. Also, the cat may become moody, unpredictable, lethargic or agitated.

      Any changes in your cat's habits or mood should be taken as a sign it should be taken to see the veterinarian as soon as possible, whether or not you suspect fleas.