Flea Treatment for Kittens

Fleas can bite and irritate a kitten's tender skin, resulting in a rash, itching and pain. Unfortunately, many of the commercial products available for ridding fleas from older cats may be dangerous when used on kittens. If the kittens acquired the fleas from their mother, you may treat her with an adult cat flea treatment while you use alternate techniques to rid her kittens of fleas. In addition, successful treatment includes treating the kitten's immediate surroundings to prevent re-infestation.

For kittens under two weeks of age, consult your veterinarian for advice.

Combing

A flea comb, available at pet supply stores, is the safest way to remove fleas from a kitten's tender fur but it is also the most time consuming. According to "The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Dogs and Cats," a flea comb should be used once a day on each kitten. Place a bowl of warm water nearby and after each gentle pull of the flea comb dip it into the water to remove any fleas that hang on. Place each kitten into a box with clean bedding after using the flea comb.

Mini Bath

Kittens are not fond of bathing but neither are fleas. While some fleas may find their way onto the kitten's head, many will stay on the lower portions of her body. Mix a drop or two of baby shampoo with a little plain water and rub it in a ring around the kitten's neck, forming a soapy barrier. Fill a sink with lukewarm water and gently dip the kitten's body into the water, only as far as the soapy ring on her neck. Hold the kitten with both hands, gently supporting her front legs and back legs in a curled position to reassure her. The fleas on her body will leave her fur and drown.

Diet

Your kittens may not attract fleas if their skin becomes less tasty. If a kitten is old enough to start eating food, you can add a little sprinkle of garlic and a bit of brewer's yeast to her meal. Most kittens do not find the flavor objectionable but the fleas may not like the way it makes the kitten smell or taste.

Environment

Since fleas can hide in a rug or in upholstery despite your best cleaning efforts, use a non-toxic treatment in the kittens' immediate environment to prevent a re-infestation. Since many flea treatments are harmful to young kittens, sprinkle diatomaceous earth, available from pet supply stores, on carpeting and sweep it into cracks beneath the baseboards. Remove the kitten's box from the area until the fine dust from the diatomaceous earth settles.

Maintenance

Constant vigilance is necessary to prevent a re-infestation. Along with treating other household animals, replace the kittens' bedding at least once a week. In addition, keep a nightlight in the kittens' room with a large shallow pan of water beneath to trap and drown fleas that seek the light during the night.

References

• The Doctors Book of Home Remedies for Dogs and Cats, by the Editors of Prevention Magazine, Amy Marder VDM, Bantam Books, 1996