How To Get Rid of Fleas
Fleas are persistent. Adult fleas can survive for up to two weeks, and immature stages can lie dormant in the home for months. Successful flea control means treating both your cat and their environment.
Never use products containing permethrin, as this is highly toxic to cats. Flea sprays are also dangerous to fish, so extra care is needed if you have an aquarium.
Fleas can also survive in garages, sheds and outdoor shelters. If your cat spends time in these areas, they should be cleaned and treated where appropriate.
Always speak to your vet before choosing a flea treatment. Different pets require different products, and some flea treatments made for dogs are fatal to cats.
If you have more than one type of pet, each will need a treatment that is safe and appropriate for their species. Your vet may also recommend:
Veterinary-prescribed flea treatments offer the most reliable long-term protection. These usually need to be given regularly, often monthly.
These liquid treatments are applied to the skin, at the back of the neck or between the shoulder blades. Some kill adult fleas, while others stop flea eggs from developing with many doing both.
Some products have a strong smell, so rewarding your cat with treats afterwards can help create a positive experience.
For cats that dislike spot-on treatments, flea control may be available as tablets or injections. These usually work by preventing flea eggs from developing.
Flea combs can help detect fleas but do not prevent or control infestations on their own. They are best used as a monitoring tool.
There are thousands of flea species, and only one can live on humans. Cat fleas cannot survive on human blood long-term, but they can still bite, causing irritation or rashes. Fleas can also be carried between pets via clothing or soft furnishings.
If you experience persistent bites or skin reactions, contact your GP for advice.
Contact your vet if:
