Evidence of Fleas on Cats

Fleas are the external parasite most common to the cat. Fleas carry bacteria that cause cat-scratch disease (a bacterial infection causing swelling of the lymph nodes) in humans. To prevent dangers associated with fleas, it is important to know how to identify a flea infestation.

  1. Types

    • There are over 2,200 types of fleas, including dog fleas, human fleas and rat fleas. However, according to both the ASPCA and Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine websites, it is the common cat flea that is the most problematic for cats.

    Facts

    • Fleas have an average lifespan of one month but can live up to 12 months in the right environmental conditions.

    Identification

    • Common symptoms of a flea infestation are scratching, irritated skin, chewing and licking of the fur and skin, and/or hair loss. A spot check can be done by running a fine-tooth comb through your cat's fur. The comb will capture fleas and "flea dirt" (dry blood excreted by fleas).

    Warning

    • Due to their small size, kittens are susceptible to developing anemia from fleas.

    Solution

    • To get rid of a flea infestation, both your cat and her environment (your home and/or outdoor property) needs to be treated. Vacuuming, flea-killing products and/or a professional exterminator will aid in ridding the environment of fleas. There are several flea preventatives on the market that can be used to treat your cat.