Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat has fleas! What to do before, during, and after the vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 5 months and 18 days old

My cats has flees, I just saw one today, I'm taking him to the vets tomorrow but what can I do tonight, ive put him in a separate room. what will happen when I take him to the vets? What shall I do now? What shall I do after his vet appointment!?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on December 18th, 2016

It's good that you're taking Markus to the vet tomorrow - the vet will probably prescribe a good quality monthly flea control medication such as Revolution or Advantage Multi to get rid of the fleas and prevent him from picking up any more from the environment. If you want to, you can get a tablet from a local pet store today called Capstar or Capguard (active ingredient nitenpyram) that will kill the fleas right away and prevent any further contamination of your home - it only lasts for 24 hours, so you will still need to get a monthly medication from your vet, but it's a good short-term option if you want to do something for him today. I would also recommend washing any bedding that he lays on frequently, and vacuuming the carpet in your home to try and get rid of any flea eggs that might be present.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    The vet will use a flea comb on Markus to confirm that he has fleas, and will give you medication to treat it. I would recommend Capstar followed by a monthly spot on treatment. Canstar is a one time pill that starts killing fleas in 30 minutes, and is safe to use with a spot on treatment to kill fleas. Then follow up with a spot on treatment like Advantage or Revolution. You will also have to disinfect the environment. Wash his bedding in hot soapy water, and vacuum the furniture and carpet surfaces. You can use a spray to kill fleas in the house, such as Indorex, or a flea bomb would work well to kill the fleas in the home. You don't have to do anything with him for now, taking him into the vet in the morning is fine :-)

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dog rubs belly & scratches face, no fleas. Could it be allergies?
Does your dog rub her belly and scratch her face without fleas? A certified vet discusses possible causes like allergies, infection, or mites. Get expert guidance now!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My cat is chunky. What food and steps can I take to help him lose weight?
Is your cat overweight? A certified vet offers guidance to help your tubby tabby lose weight. Get essential diet and food recommendations to slim down your cat!
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Cat sick and still has fleas after vinegar treatment. What now?
Cat still scratching and not eating after vinegar flea treatment? A certified vet reveals why it fails and offers effective solutions for your cat and home.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My kitten had ringworm. Vet says in blood, untreatable, no meds?
Confused about your 6-month-old kitten's ringworm diagnosis, oral meds, or vaccinations? A trusted vet offers a second opinion on your pet's health concerns.
Updated on September 23, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My cat has a weepy wound she keeps licking. Does it need stitches?
Is your cat's weepy wound concerning you? A certified vet offers guidance on home care, when to disinfect, and signs to watch for before seeking professional help.
Updated on September 23, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored