Cats 1 min read

Fleas on cats

Quick answer

Scratching, over-grooming and black specks in the coat are the usual signs. Indoor cats get fleas too, from other pets, people or new furniture. Use a flea product made for cats, wash bedding and vacuum often. Never use a dog flea product on a cat: some contain permethrin, which is toxic to cats.

Could your cat have fleas?

Tap what you see.

Your result Nothing ticked. Keep checking every week.

See a vet now if your cat

  • Drools, trembles or twitches after a flea product
  • Is a young kitten covered in fleas
  • Has pale gums or seems weak
  • Has raw, bleeding skin
  • Stops eating

Tip. Treat every pet at home on the same day. Fleas jump back from any pet you miss.

Quick quiz

Can you use your dog's flea spot-on on your cat?

What helps

See all Cat Flea Control

Picked for this question. Each card says what it is for.

Spot-on made for cats and kittensBeaphar Cat Spot-On Flea Tick and Mosquito Protection Kitten and Adult
SAR 55.61
Gentle wipes for the coatCat and Dog Flea & Tick Wipes x50 Vet's Best
SAR 60.25
Coat spray for cats and dogsBeaphar Cat and Dog DimethiCare Spray Parasite Protection
SAR 74.15
Was this helpful?

People also ask

Cat shampoo typesRingworm in catsFleas and ticks on dogs