Do I Need to Treat My Indoor Cat For Fleas?

If your indoor cat is constantly scratching or licking itself, you may need to treat him for fleas. Fleas are small, bloodsucking parasites that complete their life cycle on the outside of their host, usually a cat. They cause discomfort for your cat and can also transmit diseases. Additionally, excessive scratching can result in infections.

Fleas can cause a cat’s skin to become bald and itchy. Cats that are allergic to flea saliva may develop scabs, which look and feel like seeds in their fur. Fortunately, these scabs can be removed with cortisone spray or special baths.

Even though indoor cats rarely go outside, they can pick up fleas from other animals or cats. They can also come into contact with flea-infested furniture and surfaces. It’s best to treat your indoor cat early rather than later. Taking precautions now is essential if you want your cat to remain healthy and comfortable for years to come.

To determine whether your indoor cat is infested with fleas, you can use a flea comb to look for flea dirt. It’s best to use a clean white surface for this, and make sure the flea dirt is wet. This dirt will be red or brown in color and will dissolve on damp cotton wool.