Flea allergies are a common problem among cats. Cats that are allergic to fleas can become covered with scabs even if they only have a few fleas on them. If you have a more serious infestation, even cats who are not allergic to fleas can become covered in itchy, unattractive scabs. Fortunately, flea scabs are treatable using the following procedures.
Things You'll Need
- Cat shampoo made to soothe itchy skin (look for ingredients such as oatmeal, cortisone and diphenhydramine hydrochloride)
- Soothing leave-conditioner or spray containing the same ingredients
- Topical flea control product (ask your vet for recommendations)
- Capstar oral flea control product
- Flea control powder for your carpet
- Vacuum cleaner
Instructions
Getting Rid of the Fleas
To get rid of flea scabs, you must first get rid of the fleas on your cat. The easiest, most fool-proof way to do this quickly is to dose your cat with Capstar. Capstar is available without a prescription and begins to kill fleas within half an hour. This medication is very safe and fleas do not become immune to it like they can to topical medications. Dose your cat according to the directions on the package.
Get rid of the fleas and flea eggs in your home environment. Use flea-killing carpet powder on all of your carpets and vacuum thoroughly.
Wash your cat's bed as well as any linens or clothes that are lying around on the floor and in laundry hampers. Wash everything at the highest temperature you can without ruining the clothes.
Soothe Your Cat's Skin and Preventing Reinfestation
Bathe your cat. Most cats hate baths. However, a bath will remove fleas and flea dirt, loosen scabs and soothe your cat's skin. Use a soothing shampoo.
Follow up with a soothing leave-in conditioner or spray.
After your cat is dry, apply a topical flea control product such as Advantage or Frontline. This will keep fleas from coming back and kill any fleas that jump on to your pet after the Capstar wears off.
Flea scabs will not go away overnight, but if you have successfully dealt with the flea problem, your cat should immediately seem more comfortable. The scabs should be gone after a week or two. If they do not improve, they may be due to something other than fleas, and you should take your cat to the vet.
Prevent re-infestation by vacuuming regularly and applying a topical flea control product monthly.