Can Newborn Kittens Have Fleas

While you can safely use flea medications on nursing mothers manual removal is usually necessary for newborn kittens.

Can newborn kittens have fleas. Once kittens are 8 10 weeks and over 1 5 2 pounds they can safely receive appropriate topical flea treatments. One old myth says that kittens can be born with fleas but this is not true. Blood sucking parasites can be fatal to kittens as they can cause anemia or a low red blood cell count or carry lyme disease. Fleas can make a new home on your kitten in many ways even in indoor cats.

There are numerous otc and prescription options available for flea treatment that are safe and effective for kittens. However if the queen has fleas or if there are fleas on other pets or soft furnishings in the home kittens can catch fleas pretty much immediately after they are born. Most flea control products are not safe to use on kittens under 6 8 weeks old. Take a dry hand towel and spray the ovitrol or other flea tick spray and cover the towel.

Also clean the bedding daily change it and wash it in the hottest water you have which will kill the flea eggs. It hasn t let me down yet. Again newborn kittens need manual flea removal. This application kills the adult fleas but not their offspring.

Do not use flea medications including topical spot on products flea collars dips or shampoos on young kittens unless you have been told to do so by your veterinarian. If in any doubt whatsoever seek veterinary attention immediately. Most over the counter flea products will kill the kittens even if you put them on mom advantage is safe. As soon as you notice there are fleas either in the house or on a pet take action.

The mother may have fleas the kitten may have picked them up outside or sand tracked indoors can even contain fleas. However most professional flea and tick products contain toxic ingredients that can be fatal to kittens. Newborn kittens with fleas or ticks should be treated immediately. Slightly older kittens may be able to handle some medication or a flea brush but make sure to consult your vet first to avoid harming your kittens.

Other flea medications safe for kittens list 8 weeks of age as a minimum. Then rub the towel over the baby kitten being sure not to get it in its eyes ears or mouth. The worst thing you can do is nothing. Keep a very close eye for fleas on kittens as a heavy infestation can kill.

These products not only kill fleas on your kitten but can prevent new fleas from hitching a ride on your pet. Apply a new layer with a towel every couple of days.