External parasites can be very bothersome for our beloved cats. While we all know ticks and fleas, we can't forget about lice either. Although they don't multiply as quickly as fleas or ticks, They cause skin and coat problems also.
So I'm going to tell you Everything about lice in cats so that, in this way, you will know What to do to prevent them, detect them early, and treat them safely.
How are lice affecting cats?
Lice They are small, wingless insects (measuring only a few millimeters) that have no wings or ability to jump. They range in color from light to dark, move slowly through the fur, and live permanently on the animal's body. The species that affects felines—including domestic cats—is Felicola subrostratusa louse of the type masticator that feeds on skin scales, secretions, and organic remainsnot of blood.
This parasite seems to have a predilection for Young cats that are still developing, older cats that have stopped grooming themselves And those with long or very matted fur. However, an adult cat that is sick, weakened, or has a low immune system can also become a victim of these parasites, especially if it lives with other felines or in colonies.
It's important to keep in mind that these lice They are not contagious to humans nor to other species such as dogs, since they are cat specificsHowever, if you live with two or more cats, They will all end up infested sooner or later unless we take steps to prevent it and treat them at the same time.
Life cycle of lice in cats
Understanding the life cycle of Felicola subrostratus helps to understand why it is so important repeat the antiparasitic treatments and maintain prevention.
Adult females deposit their eggs, known as nitsThese nits are firmly attached to the cat's fur, very close to the skin. small whitish or oval dots that do not come off with a normal bath. Under normal conditions, They take about 2 weeks to hatch and give rise to nymphs.
Nymphs go through several molts until they become adult lice. The entire cycle, from nit to adult, usually lasts between 3 and 4 weeksUnlike fleas, which spend part of their life cycle in the environment, lice They remain on the cat for practically their entire lives.Therefore, direct contact between animals is the main route of transmission.
In many regions, infestations can be observed more frequently in cold timesWhen cats tend to cuddle more closely together, grooming can be less effective. However, They can appear at any time of the year if good antiparasitic prevention is not maintained.
What are the symptoms?
The signs of lice in cats can be confused with those of other external parasites, but there are some very clear clues. The symptoms are the following:
- See the parasites themselvessmall insects that move among the hair, especially on the neck, head and base of the tail.
- El hair looks dirty and tangledwith a rough or unkempt appearance, especially in long-haired cats or those that groom themselves infrequently.
- Intense itching with constant scratching, nibbling at the fur, and rubbing against furniture or objects.
- Infected wounds or bald patches as a result of continuous scratching and/or biting.
- Small white dots attached to the hair (nits) that do not come off easily when gently pulling on the hair.
- Skin irritation or redness in the most affected areas, sometimes with scabs.
- Restlessness or changes in behaviorespecially in cats that were previously calm and now appear nervous or more skittish when touched.
In very severe infestations, especially in kittens and very weak cats, may appear anemia and a general decline in health. Therefore, it is advisable to seek medical advice at the first sign of any suspicion. visit the veterinarian to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes such as fleas, mites, or allergies.
Can cat lice be transmitted to people?
This is one of the most frequent questions people ask at home when parasites are detected in an animal. In the case of feline lice, we can rest assured: Felicola subrostratus is specific to cats. This means that It cannot live or reproduce on human skin nor in other animal species.
It is possible that, when handling a heavily infested cat, a louse may momentarily transfer to a person's clothing or skinBut it will not find a suitable environment to survive in and will die soon. Therefore, There is no real risk of human pediculosis. through contact with a cat with lice.
How is it treated?
The best treatment will be to buy a antiparasitic pipette that works against lice. This pipette is a kind of very lightweight plastic bottle containing the insecticidal liquid. Open it and apply the contents to the back of the neck (where it meets the back), right in the center, parting the hair well so the product can penetrate. direct contact with the skinThe product packaging will indicate the frequency and dosage according to the cat's weight.
We will have to repeat the treatment. once a month or whenever the pipette stops being effective. This is important. Always respect the dose according to the cat's weight.Many commonly used flea and tick products, such as those containing fipronil or selamectin, are also effective against lice.
Image - Petsonic.com
In addition to pipettes, the veterinarian may recommend other treatments. antiparasitic formats depending on the specific case:
- Sprays and aerosols specific to cats, useful in heavy infestations or in shelters and colonies.
- Antiparasitic shampoos formulated for felines, which help eliminate some adult parasites and relieve itching.
- Antiparasitic collars that offer continuous protection against various external parasites.
the use of a fine comb for nits It can be a good complement to drag dead lice and eggs of the fur, although it alone does not eliminate the infestation. It is a somewhat laborious process, but very useful in long-haired cats once the main treatment has been applied.
It's fundamental Never use insecticides or products intended for dogs or humans without the approval of a veterinarian, as some substances are toxic to cats and could cause serious poisoning.
Special care for baby kittens and weakened cats
When dealing with very young kittens or animals with very compromised healthThe process for eliminating lice must be much more careful. Their skin is more delicate and their immune system is still developing, so Not all antiparasitic drugs are suitable. to them.
In these cases, the veterinarian may recommend:
- Spot-on products or sprays specifically for kittenswith doses and active ingredients safe for their age.
- Baths with mild shampoos suitable for kittensalways avoiding those made for adult cats or dogs.
- Gentle grooming with a fine comb to remove nits and dead lice, provided the animal tolerates it well.
In severe infestations, especially if the fur is very matted, the veterinarian may advise cut hair to facilitate skin treatment and recovery. If there is infected wounds or secondary skin problemsIt may also be necessary to add antibiotics or other medications.
Clean the cat's environment
To achieve complete control, it is not enough to treat the animal: it is also important act on the environmentespecially in cases of moderate or severe infestation.
- wash with hot water beds, blankets, covers and textiles with which the cat has frequent contact.
- Breathe deeply sofas, carpets, scratching posts and areas where the cat usually sleeps or rests.
- Check and, if necessary, disinfect the cleaning utensils such as brushes and combs, or replace them with new ones.
- If they live together several cats in the same houseIt is highly recommended to treat everyone, even if only one shows symptoms.
Lice that fall off or are pulled off the host They die within a few days.However, the eggs can continue to hatch for 2 or 3 weeks. Therefore, in many cases the veterinarian will recommend Repeat the antiparasitic treatment after 7-10 days and continue checking the cat's fur daily for some time.
How to prevent lice in cats
Preventing lice in cats is much easier than having to eliminate them once they are already present. Some very effective measures are:
- Maintain good coat hygieneBrush your cat regularly, especially if it has long hair or is older and doesn't groom itself much.
- Use preventative products throughout the year: pipettes, collars or antiparasitic sprays recommended by the veterinarian.
- Clean your surroundings frequently, especially beds, blankets and toys, using hot water and a good detergent.
- Monitor your overall healthA good diet, up-to-date vaccinations, and regular check-ups help keep your immune system strong.
- Avoid contact with infested animals or without deworming, especially in colonies, shelters or spaces where many cats gather.
Lice in cats are not as common as other parasites, but they are very bothersome and can worsen the health of already weakened animals. Good antiparasitic prevention, regular coat checks, and prompt consultation with the veterinarian At the first sign of intense itching or matted fur, it is possible to keep your feline comfortable, healthy and free of these unwelcome guests.
We hope it has been useful to you.
