Can Lice Live on Cats?
WouterIt can be difficult to treat head lice on your own, but the best solution is to have your pet examined by a veterinarian. Your veterinarian will perform an inspection and treat any infestation with a medicated shampoo or topical treatment. The treatments should be repeated every seven to 10 days. During the time between treatments, it’s important to check your cat’s coat carefully and collect any dead lice. Then, dispose of them in a sealed container. If you have several cats, it is important to treat all of them together.
Lice on cats aren’t as common as the ones found on humans, but they can still cause problems. While head lice can hitchhike on family pets, these animals are unlikely to be carriers for very long. Consequently, treating your pet should be the second priority after treating your child’s head.
In some cases, cats with long hair may require clipping. Another common treatment involves applying an insecticidal shampoo. Infections can also be treated with antibiotics and other medications. If the infestation is severe, the cat may scratch excessively. If this is the case, treatment may require a visit to a veterinarian.
Luckily, lice aren’t contagious between cats and humans, although it’s still wise to treat more than one cat to avoid the spread of the disease. Also, make sure to visit a veterinarian if you notice changes in your cat’s behavior or appearance. Regular grooming will help you identify any changes early and prevent an infestation from becoming a major problem. Vaccinating your cat will also help keep the problem at bay.
