Lice (Pediculosis) in Cats
Key takeaways
Cat lice (Felicola subrostratus) are small insects of the chewing type that feed on the host’s skin and hair.
- Common clinical signs are matted hair, skin irritation/redness, and biting, rubbing, or scratching of the skin
- Lice can also carry Bartonella, an infectious organism affecting both animals and humans
- A diagnosis is usually reached through observation alone
- Treatment consists of washing the infected cat with approved products, using topical medications, and dislodging the nits with a comb
- Always consult a veterinarian before choosing external parasite control. Many available products are toxic to pets, especially cats.
- Thanks to preventive treatments, lice are now rare in cats and are mostly seen in stray or feral animals
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A closer look: Lice (Pediculosis) in Cats
Lice infestation (or pediculosis) is now rare in cats, thanks to preventive antiparasitic measures, and is mostly seen in neglected or stray cats.
Female lice glue their eggs (nits) to the host’s hair and most antiparasitic shampoos and products do not dislodge them. It takes about 3 to 4 weeks for nits to reach the adult stage.
Lice infestations can be seen throughout the whole year but they are most common in the winter months.
Pediculosis is not a life-threatening condition, but it does require prompt medical attention to prevent its spread to other cats.
Lice can carry Bartonella, an infectious organism causing illness in humans and other animals.
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Risk factors
Lice infestations are more common in crowded, unsanitary conditions and in young or unhealthy/debilitated cats.
In severe cases, excessive scratching can lead to skin scarring and hair loss.
Because of the potential for lice to carry organisms that are a risk to human health, it is important to identify and eliminate them as early as possible.
Always consult a veterinarian before choosing external parasite control. Many available products are toxic to pets, especially cats.
Possible causes
Pediculosis in cats is caused by the chewing louse Felicola subrostratus. Lice infestations are more common in crowded, unsanitary conditions and in young or unhealthy/debilitated cats.
Main symptoms
Testing and diagnosis
Usually, the diagnostic process involves just a study of the symptoms and a physical examination. Lice and nits are usually visible on infested cats’ skin and hair; sometimes a magnifying glass or a pen light may be necessary. Microscopic visualization may also be needed for confirmation.
Steps to Recovery
The treatment for lice is administration of a vet-approved topical insecticide that is effective against lice and increased grooming to remove any visible eggs from the fur. Some pet parents may elect to shave infested cats during the recovery period to minimize reinfestation and reduce the amount of additional grooming required.
All cats in the home should also be checked for lice if one cat is diagnosed. All infected individuals require treatment at the same time for the infestation to be fully eradicated.
The duration of treatment varies according to the product of choice and the severity of the infestation, but is usually 2 to 5 weeks for complete elimination.
Grooming and bedding items must be washed carefully with pest-control products as well to prevent reinfestation.
Always consult a veterinarian before choosing external parasite control. Many available products are toxic to pets, especially cats.
The prognosis with appropriate treatment is excellent.
Prevention
Lice are species-specific insects that can be transmitted either by direct contact or via grooming tools or bedding. Keeping affected cats separated from other cats can prevent the spread of lice.
Bedding and grooming objects must be washed and checked regularly.
Appropriate grooming might prevent lice infestation or lead to early detection.
Regular flea control is also a good preventive measure, as most products likewise control lice infestation.
Always consult a veterinarian before choosing external parasite control. Many available products are toxic to pets, especially cats.
Is Lice (Pediculosis) in Cats common?
Lice infestations are uncommon in cats. They are more common in crowded, unsanitary conditions and in young or unhealthy/debilitated cats.
Typical Treatment
- Approved insecticides (shampoos, sprays, dusts, powders)
- Manually dislodging nits with a fine-toothed comb
