Towcester Vets share common signs of cat fleas
April 7, 2024
When it comes to our pet’s wellbeing, as owners we always want the best for our feline friends and that includes the best protection against fleas. These tiny parasites can quickly become a nuisance for both cats and their human companions and they can be a nightmare to get rid of in your home.
Towcester Vets have put together this article to help you spot the common signs of cat fleas so that you can act quickly and minimise the level of harm they can cause.
Get in touch to order your cat’s flea treatment
Common indicators of cat fleas:
- Increased grooming & scratching: Our veterinary team at Towcester wish to emphasise the importance of paying close attention to your cat’s behaviour as one of the ways they communicate discomfort is through excessive scratching, biting, or licking of their delicate skin. Should you notice your cat engaging in frequent grooming sessions or showing signs of distress by scratching at specific areas of their body, especially around their neck, head, or the base of their tail, this may indicate the unwelcome presence of fleas.
- Irritated and red skin: Flea bites can cause irritation and sometimes an allergic reactions in cats. If you notice redness and inflammation of your cat’s skin, and perhaps hair loss (in severe cases), we advise that you should consider fleas as a potential cause.
- Restlessness and irritability: Felines experiencing a flea infestation might display signs of restlessness, irritability, or discomfort, particularly when the infestation is severe. They may exhibit heightened agitation and struggle to find their usual calm, making it challenging for them to relax or enjoy restful sleep.
- You can see fleas or flea dirt: Fleas are tiny, dark brown, fast-moving insects that can be challenging to spot, especially if your cat has dense fur. However, if you part your cat’s fur in several places, you may be able to see them crawling close to the skin. You may also notice small dark specks, known as flea dirt, on your cat’s fur or bedding. Not the nicest description we know, but flea dirt is actually flea faeces composed of digested blood and is a telltale sign of flea infestation. Talk to our cat-loving team at Towcester Veterinary Centre about the best cat flea comb to help you with this task.
- Tapeworms are present: Worringly, fleas can transmit tapeworm eggs to cats, leading to the development of tapeworm infections. If you notice small, rice-like segments around your cat’s bottom or in their faeces, it could indicate a tapeworm infestation secondary to flea exposure.
Order flea treatment from us
Towcester Vets advise that if you suspect your cat has fleas, swift action is important to alleviate their discomfort. Order vet recommended prescription-only flea treatment from us to effectively eliminate fleas from your cat’s environment and thwart future infestations. We offer a variety of safe and effective flea control products designed specifically for cats.
Our team can provide personalised recommendations for flea treatment based on your cat’s individual needs and lifestyle.
Don’t let fleas disrupt your cat’s comfort and wellbeing. Order flea treatment from us today and take the first step towards a happier, healthier life for your feline companion. If you have any questions or concerns about fleas or flea control, don’t hesitate to talk to us. We’re here to help you keep your cat flea-free and thriving.
