How to tell if cat has fleas?

Most cat owners are confident that their feline companion is flea-free, often trusting that monthly flea treatments provide full protection. However, fleas are more cunning than you might think, and it is entirely possible for your cat to have a significant flea infestation without you realising it.

This article explores why fleas can go unnoticed on cats, how to identify the signs of infestation, and practical methods to check your pet. Taking these steps will help keep your cat comfortable and your home flea-free.

Why Might You Not Realise Your Cat Has Fleas?

Many cat owners fall into two common assumptions: firstly, that regular flea treatment guarantees a flea-free cat, and secondly, that if their cat had fleas, they themselves would also be bitten.

While effective flea treatments from your vet are the first line of defence, some products can lose their potency over time, particularly in certain areas where flea resistance has developed. This means even well-treated cats might still harbour fleas, unbeknownst to their owners.

Furthermore, not all fleas feed on humans. The cat flea (cat flea) species is highly adapted to feed on cats and is unlikely to bite people, so you won’t necessarily get bitten just because your cat has fleas.

Additionally, fleas spend most of their time close to the skin rather than throughout the fur. Unless your cat has very light-coloured fur, spotting fleas without a flea comb can be like finding a needle in a haystack.

Signs Your Cat Might Have Fleas

• Excessive scratching, biting, or licking: Fleas cause itchiness and discomfort, so increased grooming behaviours or restlessness often signal their presence.
• Visible fleas or flea dirt: Fleas appear as tiny, fast-moving dark insects, commonly found around the base of the tail and neck.
• Flea dirt: This looks like small black specks in the fur. When placed on white paper and moistened, it may leave reddish stains—a telltale sign of digested blood.
• Skin problems: Persistent flea infestations can cause hair loss, bald patches, or irritated and inflamed skin. Some cats develop Flea Allergy Dermatitis, an allergic reaction resulting in red, itchy skin.
• Behavioural changes: Your cat may appear unusually agitated or sensitive to touch, especially around the back end.

How to Check Your Cat for Fleas: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Gather a Good Quality Flea Comb

A flea comb has very fine, close-together teeth designed to catch fleas and flea dirt. You can find these at pet shops or your vet’s clinic.

Step 2: Choose a Comfortable Spot

Pick a well-lit, calm area where your cat feels relaxed. Sitting in natural daylight or under a bright lamp will help you see better.

Step 3: Comb Through Your Cat’s Fur

Carefully run the flea comb through your cat’s fur, focusing on the neck, base of the tail, and under the legs. Comb for 5–10 minutes, gently detangling and checking the comb teeth.

Step 4: Inspect the Comb Contents

Look for live fleas, which appear as tiny, dark, jumping insects. Also, observe for black specks known as flea dirt.

Step 5: Test Flea Dirt

Tap the black specks onto a white paper and add a drop of water. If the spots turn reddish, this is digested blood from fleas, confirming their presence.

Creative Yet Effective: The Bowl of Soap and Water Test

If you want to detect fleas in your home environment, place a shallow bowl with water and a few drops of washing up liquid under a bright light in a room where your cat spends a lot of time. Fleas are attracted to the warmth and light and may jump into the bowl, where the soapy water traps them.

What to Do If You Find Fleas on Your Cat

If you confirm fleas despite ongoing monthly treatments, it could be time to discuss alternatives with your vet. Resist using unapproved or harsh products that could harm your cat. Your vet can recommend safe and effective treatments suitable for your cat’s lifestyle and health.

Importantly, treat your home environment by cleaning bedding, vacuuming carpets, and washing soft furnishings. Fleas can lay eggs that hatch into new fleas and make the problem cyclical.

Regularly checking your cat, maintaining up-to-date preventatives, and cleaning your home are critical steps to responsible pet ownership and maintaining your cat's comfort and health.

Remember, fleas are a common problem and being informed helps you protect your beloved pet.