Are fleas dangerous to newborn kittens?

In very young kittens, the fleas cause potentially fatal anemia due to blood loss. To kill fleas on newborn kittens, you need to use natural methods, such as lemon water, because you cannot safely use topical and oral fleas treatments on them.

When can you flea newborn kittens?

Once kittens are 8-10 weeks and over 1.5-2 pounds, they can safely receive appropriate topical flea treatments. These products not only kill fleas on your kitten but can prevent new fleas from hitching a ride on your pet.

Can I bathe newborn kittens?

For a bad infestation, you can bathe the kitten in warm water. You can also use a very small amount of gentle, liquid dish soaps like Dawn to bathe kittens. Avoid the eye area—use a washcloth around the face—and rinse them thoroughly. Be sure to dry them after a bath so they do not chill.

Can you bathe newborn kittens?

Can I bathe a 1 week old kitten?

No one should have to bathe a kitten alone! Kittens under eight weeks old can’t regulate their own body temperatures, so you must help them stay warm. Before bath time, run a hot shower to heat up the room. The bath water itself should be comfortably warm, but not hot.

Can you touch newborn kittens?

Vets recommend not touching kittens unless you have to while their eyes are still closed. You can check on them to make sure they’re healthy and gaining weight, but try to limit direct physical contact. The kitten’s mother will also let you know how comfortable she is with you handling her babies.

What are the risks of flea infestations in kittens?

Because kittens’ bodies are so small, they are at a high risk of flea anemia due to the loss of blood from the fleas feeding. For this reason, flea infestations should be taken seriously and treatment should not be delayed. Neonatal kittens can’t receive topical flea treatment.

How to get rid of fleas on a newborn kitten?

Use flea comb to groom them and get rid of any fleas that are still present on their coat. Dip the comb in a cup of soapy water to kill the fleas. Remember, the life of the newborn kittens is under threat since flea infestations are known to carry anemia, which can be very dangerous due to the small size of the newborns.

What are the symptoms of anemia in cats with fleas?

Pale gums, weakness, lethargy and rapid heartbeat are common signs of anemia in kittens or adults with a heavy flea burden. Run your fingers or a flea comb through the cat’s fur; you may spot small, fast-moving dark fleas.

How can you tell if a kitten has fleas?

You may see active, live fleas which will appear as fast-moving, small, dark brown bugs that quickly dart through the fur, seeking refuge in the cat’s face, belly, and armpits. Look for flea dirt, which is a sign that the kitten has fleas–even if you don’t see live bugs.