Can Newborn Kittens Have Fleas

Keep a very close eye for fleas on kittens as a heavy infestation can kill.

Can newborn kittens have fleas. Again newborn kittens need manual flea removal. The only way you re going to do this without harming them is to flea treat the mom cat with something that is safe to use on nursing cats get advantage from your vet. The mother may have fleas the kitten may have picked them up outside or sand tracked indoors can even contain fleas. Most flea control products are not safe to use on kittens under 6 8 weeks old.

This application kills the adult fleas but not their offspring. Once kittens are 8 10 weeks and over 1 5 2 pounds they can safely receive appropriate topical flea treatments. If fleas or flea dirt are present treat the kitten for fleas right away. Instead you will need to provide the kitten with a bath.

Never use a topical chemical treatment on a neonatal kitten as this may be toxic to a young kitten. Blood sucking parasites can be fatal to kittens as they can cause anemia or a low red blood cell count or carry lyme disease. The worst thing you can do is nothing. Fleas will literally suck the life out of kittens so it s very important that you get rid of the fleas.

Bathe the kitten in a kitchen sink with lukewarm water and a small amount of natural unscented castile soap. In consultation with your vet kittens over 4 weeks old may be treated with capstar there is a minimum weight requirement. There are numerous otc and prescription options available for flea treatment that are safe and effective for kittens. These products not only kill fleas on your kitten but can prevent new fleas from hitching a ride on your pet.

As soon as you notice there are fleas either in the house or on a pet take action. Flea dirt looks like small black flecks of dirt and will be present along the base of the fur. If in any doubt whatsoever seek veterinary attention immediately. Fleas can make a new home on your kitten in many ways even in indoor cats.

Newborn kittens with fleas or ticks should be treated immediately.