How Young Can a Kitten Be Treated For Fleas?
WouterA kitten that is less than 6 weeks old is too young to be treated with chemicals. Chemicals are not suitable for young kittens, as they cannot tolerate them as well. A veterinarian should be consulted to determine the extent of flea infestation and the best course of action.
A flea comb is the safest treatment option for very young kittens, as it can catch adult fleas without causing any damage to the kitten’s skin. However, do not use a plastic flea comb, as these will not trap fleas and may actually make the flea infestation worse. After treating your kitten, make sure to dry her thoroughly and then place her in a spot free of fleas. If possible, you should also wash her bedding and fabric.
Although most treatments for fleas are designed for cats over eight weeks of age, there are several products available for young kittens. The most common one is Capstar, which works within six hours and kills 90 percent of fleas. This treatment is safe for kittens under 2 pounds, and can be applied to their fur. Using Capstar also kills flea offspring in the environment, which is important if you want to protect your kitten from fleas.
Another common problem caused by fleas is anemia. Since fleas feed on the blood of a cat, they rob the kitten of oxygen and cause anemia. This can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
