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Does a cat scratching mean it has fleas?
Scratching, biting and licking Fleas cause cats to feel itchy and irritated, which is why scratching is one of the most well-known ways to tell if your cat has fleas. But, remember that all cats scratch, bite or lick themselves as part of the grooming process, so it isn’t always a sign of a flea problem.
Does my cat have fleas or just itchy?
Intense and Frantic Scratching or Biting Flea bites can cause a cat’s skin and fur to feel very itchy, Dr. Weinberg says. One of the signs of fleas on cats is if your cat suddenly starts scratching their body with their paws or chewing their skin in an attempt to stop the itchy sensation.
How do I know if cat has fleas?
The most obvious sign that your cat has fleas is persistent scratching, or sometimes over-grooming, which can result in bald patches on their coat. If your cat develops a flea allergy they may also have scabs and red, sore areas on their skin.
Do cats scratch themselves for no reason?
Keep a look out for: Scratching that’s more than occasional – a few scratches a day is normal, every few minutes is cause for attention. Over-grooming or your cat pulling out its coat. Chewing and nibbling at their skin and coat.
Do cats scratch without fleas?
When we see our pet scratching, it’s almost automatic to think they have fleas. However, as we mentioned above, it’s normal for cats to scratch, even when they don’t have fleas. If the behavior is excessive and the suggestions above don’t help, it might be wise to consult your vet about the behavior.
Can you always see fleas on cats?
Sometimes they’re visible. You might see tiny black specks of flea dirt in your cat’s fur, or small scurrying insects. You might also see them on your carpets, your furniture, or even your own body and clothing. But even if you can’t spot any fleas, there’s still a few tell-tale signs to look out for.
Do cats always have fleas?
Yes, your indoor-only cat does have fleas, and here’s how. Fleas are classed as an external parasite (or ectoparasite), meaning they complete their life cycle on the outside of a host. The good news is, fleas don’t live on humans – we don’t have enough fur!
Does scratching mean fleas?
A single flea bite can cause pets to scratch excessively and become agitated. As well as itching, red pimples or bumps on your pet’s groin, belly, under the legs, or at the base of their tail may be a sign that your pet has fleas. Hair loss and dry skin due to scratching may also be a sign of fleas on your dog or cat.