Cat & Kitten Flea, Tick & Worming Guide
Fleas on Cats
Fleas are one of the most common parasites affecting cats. These tiny insects feed on blood and can cause itching, irritation and skin problems.
Even indoor cats can pick up fleas, as they can be brought into the home on other pets, clothing or belongings.
How Do I Know If My Cat Has Fleas?
Common signs of fleas include:
- Scratching, biting or licking their coat more than usual
- Small black specks in their fur, known as flea dirt
- Irritated skin or small scabs
- Hair loss, particularly around the back and base of the tail
- Seeing small, dark insects moving through their coat
You can check your cat's coat using a flea comb, paying particular attention to the neck, back and base of the tail. Flea dirt may look like black specks; when placed on damp white tissue, it can leave reddish-brown marks.
Some cats have an allergy to flea saliva, meaning even a small number of bites can cause significant irritation.
How Do I Get Rid of Fleas on My Cat?
If your cat has fleas, it's important to treat the infestation properly rather than just removing the fleas you can see.
- Use a suitable flea treatment: Choose a product specifically authorised for cats and appropriate for your cat's age and weight.
- Treat all affected pets: Other cats and dogs in the household may also need appropriate treatment.
- Clean your home: Wash pet bedding where suitable and vacuum carpets, upholstery and areas where your cat spends time.
- Stay consistent: Follow the product instructions for repeat treatments and ongoing prevention.
Most of a household flea infestation can be found in the environment as eggs and immature stages, rather than on your pet. That's why treating your cat alone may not be enough.
Ticks on Cats
Ticks are small parasites that attach to your cat's skin and feed on blood. They're commonly encountered in grassy areas, woodland and other places where wildlife is present.
Outdoor cats are generally at greater risk, but ticks can occasionally affect cats who spend most of their time indoors.
How Do I Know If My Cat Has a Tick?
Ticks may feel like small lumps when you run your hands over your cat's coat. They can vary in size depending on how long they've been attached.
Check your cat regularly, especially after they've been outside. Pay attention to the head, neck, ears and areas around the legs.
How Do I Remove a Tick?
Use a suitable tick-removal tool and follow its instructions carefully. Avoid squeezing the tick's body or attempting to burn it off or cover it with oils.
If you're unsure how to remove a tick safely, ask your vet for help.
How Can I Help Protect My Cat from Ticks?
Some cat parasite treatments protect against both fleas and ticks, while others only target specific parasites.
Always check the product label to confirm which parasites it covers, how often it should be used and whether it's suitable for your cat.
Worming Your Cat
Worms are internal parasites that can affect cats and kittens. Some cats show few obvious signs, so a regular, appropriate worming routine is important even when your cat appears healthy.
The most common types include roundworms and tapeworms.
Roundworms
Roundworms are particularly important in kittens, as they can acquire infection from their mother. Cats can also become infected through their environment or by eating infected prey.
Possible signs include a swollen tummy, poor growth, vomiting, diarrhoea or worms visible in faeces. However, infected cats may show no obvious symptoms.
Tapeworms
Cats can acquire certain tapeworms by swallowing infected fleas while grooming, while other types can be acquired through eating infected prey.
You may occasionally spot small segments around your cat's bottom or in their bedding. These can resemble grains of rice.
Because fleas can transmit some tapeworms, flea control and worming often need to be considered together.
How Often Should I Worm My Cat?
The right schedule depends on your cat's age, lifestyle, health and risk of exposure.
Kittens generally need more frequent worming than adult cats, particularly during their first few months. Adult cats may need a tailored routine based on whether they hunt, go outdoors, have fleas or live with children or other vulnerable household members.
Your vet can recommend a suitable schedule for your cat. Always follow the product instructions and avoid repeating treatments more frequently than advised.
Flea, Tick & Worming Treatments for Kittens
Kittens need special consideration when it comes to parasite protection.
Although young kittens can be vulnerable to parasites, not every treatment is suitable for them. Minimum age and weight requirements vary between products, and some treatments are intended for adult cats only.
Before choosing a treatment:
- Check the minimum age and weight on the label.
- Make sure the product is specifically suitable for cats or kittens.
- Follow the recommended dose and application instructions.
- Ask your vet for advice if your kitten is very young, underweight, unwell or already receiving medication.
Never use a dog flea treatment on a cat unless a veterinary professional has specifically confirmed that the product is suitable. Some dog treatments contain permethrin, which is highly toxic to cats and can be fatal.
Indoor Cats Need Parasite Protection Too
Does your cat spend all their time indoors? They may still be at risk of parasites.
Fleas can enter the home on other animals or be carried inside on clothing and belongings. Indoor cats may also encounter parasites if they share a home with other pets or have access to balconies and outdoor spaces.
The level of protection your cat needs depends on their individual circumstances, so indoor cats shouldn't automatically be assumed to need the same treatment schedule as outdoor cats.
Speak to your vet about a suitable preventative routine based on your cat's lifestyle.
Keeping Your Home Free from Fleas
If your cat has fleas, it's important to think about the environment as well as your pet.
Flea eggs and immature stages can accumulate in carpets, soft furnishings, pet bedding and other areas where your cat rests.
To help manage an infestation:
- Vacuum regularly, paying attention to corners and underneath furniture.
- Wash pet bedding according to its care instructions.
- Continue treating your cat with an appropriate product as directed.
- Consider a suitable household flea treatment if needed, following its label carefully.
Never apply household flea sprays directly to your cat unless the product is specifically intended for that use.
If the infestation persists despite treatment, speak to your vet for advice.
Beaphar FIPROtec Flea & Tick Spot-On for Cats, 1 Pipette
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Foran Parazole Wormer for Cats & Dogs, 100ml
Choose your option
Our Cat Parasite Protection Essentials
When Should I Contact My Vet?
Seek veterinary advice if your cat has persistent itching, skin irritation, hair loss, unexplained weight loss, vomiting, diarrhoea or other signs that could indicate a parasite problem.
Kittens, elderly cats and cats who are unwell may need particular care when choosing treatments.
If your cat develops an adverse reaction after treatment, contact your vet immediately. If you suspect exposure to a dog flea treatment containing permethrin, seek emergency veterinary advice.
Make Parasite Protection Part of Your Cat's Routine
Fleas, ticks and worms don't always cause obvious symptoms, so prevention and regular checks are important parts of responsible cat care.
Choose treatments appropriate for your cat's age, weight and lifestyle, follow the product instructions and ask your vet for advice whenever you're unsure.
Explore our range of cat flea, tick and worming treatments to help keep your cat protected.
