Fleas on Cats: Indoor Cats Included

Many owners of indoor cats think fleas are not a risk. But fleas can come in on people, other pets or from shared spaces.

The short answer

Indoor cats can get fleas from other pets, visitors, clothes, balconies or neighbouring homes. Signs include scratching, over-grooming, small scabs, flea dirt in the fur and flea bites on people. Use only cat-safe flea products recommended by your vet, never dog products, and treat the home at the same time. Fleas on cats can also cause allergy and anaemia in some cases, so see a vet for treatment.

How indoor cats get fleas

• Other pets that go outdoors.
• Fleas hitchhiking on clothes or shoes.
• Neighbouring flats and shared stairwells.
• Infested furniture or bedding.

Signs

• Frequent scratching and over-grooming.
• Black flea dirt in the fur, especially near the tail and neck.
• Scabs, hair loss or red skin.
• Restlessness.

What to do

1. Visit a vet for cat-safe treatment.
2. Never use dog flea products on cats.
3. Wash bedding on a hot wash.
4. Vacuum the home thoroughly.
5. Arrange professional home treatment if needed.

Prevention

• Regular vet-recommended preventives.
• Keep the home clean.
• Check new pets and bedding.

When to call a professional

Always consult a vet for treating cats, and a pest professional if the home is infested.

Frequently asked questions

Can indoor cats get fleas?

Yes.

Are flea collars safe?

Ask your vet about which products are suitable.

Can I use home remedies?

Some are unsafe for cats. Ask a vet.

Do fleas on cats bite people?

Yes, they can.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on tick and flea control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full tick and flea control guide for Bangalore.