Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Is the dirt in my cat's fur flea dirt or eggs? How do I treat it?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Ragdoll | Male | unneutered | 5 months and 25 days old | 5 lbs

I just want to ask if this is some kind of fleas or ticks eggs. If you zoomed in the picture you'll see dirts like, in every strands of my ragdoll's fur in every part of his body. And how can i treat this.. thank you in advance.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on July 1st, 2017

Ticks will feed until engorged then drop off and lay eggs. Fleas will also hop off and lay eggs in the environment. You can check for flea dirt with a wet cotton ball. Rub some of the "dirt" on the wet cotton ball. If rust colored streaks appear, this is flea dirt. If not, it is likely ordinary dirt, grime, dead skin cells, etc. Fleas be treated using a topical or oral preventative. Discuss options with your veterinarian. You will need to treat for at least three consecutive months, preferably year round. Treat the environment as well. Vacuum everywhere Gab has been and discard the bag outdoors. Wash all bedding in hot water and use an area treatment, such as Knockout ES, prevent reinfestation.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    The resolution of the picture is very very low so details cannot be seen when zooming, i cannot see anything abnormal, if you do see something abnormal please take a better quality photo and upload it.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Hi there. I'm sorry but the photo is not good quality enough for me to see anything. If you are seeing "flea dirt" then it is likely fleas. If you can, comb some of that "dirt" on a white paper towel or napkin and then fold it over and squish the dirt. Open up the napkin and if you see red spots then it's likely fleas. The red spots are blood from the fleas. That is a good way to tell. Often times cats will have fleas but you don't actually see the adult fleas because cats will groom themselves to get rid of the fleas. I do not know what products you have available to treat for fleas in the Philippines but I think you should go ahead and treat him. I would suggest you call a local veterinarian and get a suggestion for a safe product to use. You must be careful with these products and cats. Definitely DO NOT use a product made for dogs on your cat. I hope this helps. Best wishes!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    Ticks will feed until engorged then drop off and lay eggs. Fleas will also hop off and lay eggs in the environment. You can check for flea dirt with a wet cotton ball. Rub some of the "dirt" on the wet cotton ball. If rust colored streaks appear, this is flea dirt. If not, it is likely ordinary dirt, grime, dead skin cells, etc. Fleas be treated using a topical or oral preventative. Discuss options with your veterinarian. You will need to treat for at least three consecutive months, preferably year round. Treat the environment as well. Vacuum everywhere Gab has been and discard the bag outdoors. Wash all bedding in hot water and use an area treatment, such as Knockout ES, prevent reinfestation.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu has a white bump in its fur. Should I take my pet to the vet?
Worried about your pet degu's white pustule? A certified vet discusses this potential skin infection, explains why not to pop it, and guides your next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's ear mite treatment isn't working. What else could it be?
Pet still itching after treatment? A Petco vet clarifies it may not be ear mites. Discover effective solutions like Revolution or consulting an exotic vet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog's matted fur bled after cutting. Should I take him to the vet?
Did your pet bleed after matted fur removal? A trusted vet explains potential infection, wound care, and why immediate veterinary attention is crucial for healing.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored