Discovering tiny, crawling parasites in your cat’s fur can be alarming, but cat lice, or Felicola subrostratus, are a manageable problem. Unlike fleas, cat lice are species-specific, meaning they generally will not infest humans or dogs, offering a small measure of relief. However, an infestation (pediculosis) causes significant irritation, intense itching, and, in severe cases, can lead to hair loss, skin infections, and general poor health. Effective elimination requires a two-pronged strategy: treating the cat and thoroughly decontaminating the environment. While the treatment can often be managed at home, consultation with your veterinarian is the crucial first step to ensure you use feline-safe products.
Step One: Veterinary Guidance and Safe Product Selection
Before applying any treatment, speak to your vet. This is non-negotiable, as many insecticides safe for dogs or the home environment are highly toxic and potentially fatal to cats (most notably, products containing Permethrin or high … Read more