Signs of flea infestation will be different depending on your cat’s health, the number of fleas on the cat and other individual factors.

small bumps or crusts, usually on the neck and along the back skin irritation, especially on the back of the neck and base of the tail increased scratching, especially around the face increased grooming hairballs from excessive grooming hair loss passing tapeworms in the stool (fleas carry tapeworm eggs which cats ingest and pass)[3] X Research source Patrick J. McKeever, Tim Nuttall and Richard G. Harvey, A Colour Handbook of Skin Diseases of the Dog, Second Edition, (London: Manson/Veterinary Press, 2009), 41. -42

Some cats may be more sensitive to flea bites and will appear more bothered by the flea bites. They may develop strange behaviors because they are uncomfortable.

Kittens and elderly cats are more likely to get anemia from flea infestation.

Fleas are dark brown wingless insects about 3 to 4 millimeters in length. [5] X Research source William J. Foreyt, Veterinary Parasitology Reference Manual (Ames, Iowa: 2001), 40. You may notice them jump away as you work. Check in between the cat’s legs on their bellies. Part the fur here as it is a common place for fleas to inhabit.

Flea combs are designed to trap fleas on the teeth of the comb. The teeth are so close together that the flea cannot escape and is brought to the surface.

If you notice this flea excrement, or flea dirt, there are fleas somewhere on your cat.

This is easiest if you placed your cat on a white towel or sheet when you combed her.

Your cat may be allergic to something other than fleas. If you don’t find fleas, but your cat is still constantly scratching, take her to the vet.

Choose a product specifically for feline use since some dog products contain ingredients that can be harmful to cats. Check with your veterinarian for help choosing a product that meets your cat’s needs.

Monthly preventative treatments are available orally, as injections, and as topical medications. [10] X Research source

Consider putting a flea collar in your vacuum bag or canister to kill any fleas that you vacuum up. [12] X Research source

If you have a flea infestation that you can’t seem to get rid of, you may need to use a household fogger. This releases toxins that kill the fleas and their eggs, but it may be harmful to pets and children. Carefully learn about foggers before using them. [13] X Research source