Lice are tiny, wingless insects that can infest the fur of various animals, including cats. The most common type of lice found on cats are biting or chewing lice, specifically Felicola subrostrata. While less prevalent today thanks to modern flea and tick preventatives, understanding these parasites is crucial for cat owners, especially for those with older, stray, feral, or shelter cats, which are more susceptible.
What are Cat Biting Lice?
Cat Biting Lice are external parasites that live on the skin surface of cats, feeding on skin debris, dander, and oils. Unlike sucking lice which feed on blood, biting lice are less irritating but can still cause discomfort and skin problems for your feline friend. These parasites are species-specific, meaning Felicola subrostrata only infests cats and won’t spread to humans or other pets like dogs.
How Do Cats Get Biting Lice?
Lice are transmitted through direct contact with infested animals. This can happen in multi-cat households, shelters, or outdoor environments where cats interact. While lice are present year-round, infestations are more common in colder months when cats might spend more time indoors and in closer proximity. Factors that increase a cat’s risk of lice include:
- Age: Older cats, especially those with arthritis or other mobility issues, may struggle to groom effectively, making them more vulnerable.
- Poor Grooming Habits: Cats that are ill, obese, or have long fur may also have difficulty grooming, providing an ideal environment for lice to thrive.
- Weakened Immune System: Cats with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems are generally more susceptible to parasitic infestations.
- Exposure to Infested Cats: Contact with stray cats, feral colonies, or unsanitary shelter environments can increase the risk of lice transmission.
Recognizing the Signs of Cat Lice Infestation
An infestation of cat biting lice, known as pediculosis, can cause several noticeable signs in your cat:
- Excessive Scratching, Biting, and Rubbing: This is the most common symptom as cats try to relieve the itchiness caused by the lice moving on their skin. You might notice your cat scratching more frequently than usual, particularly around the head, neck, and back.
- Restlessness: The constant irritation can make your cat agitated and unable to settle down.
- Matted or Thinning Fur: In severe infestations, the fur may become matted due to excessive scratching and rubbing. Hair loss can also occur in heavily infested areas.
- Visible Lice or Nits: With careful examination, you may be able to see the lice themselves moving through the fur, or their eggs (nits) attached to the hair shafts.
Diagnosing Cat Biting Lice
Diagnosis is usually straightforward and based on visual identification. You can check your cat for lice by:
- Parting the Fur: Use your fingers to part your cat’s fur down to the skin, especially around the neck, shoulders, and base of the tail.
- Looking for Movement: Adult lice are small (1-2mm), pale yellowish-brown insects that move quickly through the fur.
- Identifying Nits: Nits are the eggs of lice. They appear as small, whitish or translucent oval shapes firmly attached to the base of the hair shafts, close to the skin. They are easier to spot than the moving lice.
- Using a Magnifying Glass: A magnifying glass can be helpful for closer inspection, especially to differentiate nits from dander.
- Veterinary Confirmation: If you suspect lice, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian for a definitive diagnosis and to discuss the most appropriate treatment plan for your cat.
Effective Treatment for Cat Biting Lice
Treatment for cat biting lice is generally effective with various readily available options:
- Topical “Spot-On” Treatments: Many flea and tick spot-on medications that you apply to the back of your cat’s neck are also effective against lice. Your veterinarian can recommend a suitable product containing ingredients like fipronil or selamectin.
- Lice Shampoos: Medicated shampoos specifically formulated to kill lice are available. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions and ensure the shampoo is safe for cats.
- Lice Sprays and Dusts: Sprays and powders containing insecticides can also be used, but always consult your vet before using these as some products can be toxic to cats if not used correctly.
- Oral Medications: In some cases, oral medications may be prescribed by your veterinarian, particularly for severe or resistant infestations.
- Repeat Treatments: Because treatments typically kill adult lice but not necessarily the nits, repeat treatments are crucial. Usually, a second treatment is recommended 7-10 days after the initial one to kill any newly hatched lice.
Important Note: Always consult your veterinarian before using any insecticide or medication on your cat. Some products are toxic to cats, and your vet can recommend the safest and most effective treatment based on your cat’s individual needs and health status.
Don’t Forget the Environment
To prevent re-infestation, it’s essential to treat your cat’s environment as well:
- Wash Bedding: Wash all cat bedding, blankets, and washable toys in hot, soapy water.
- Clean Grooming Tools: Thoroughly clean and disinfect grooming tools like brushes and combs.
- Treat Multi-Pet Households: If you have other cats or pets in the household that have been in contact with the infested cat, they should also be treated preventatively.
- Limit Contact with Infested Animals: If possible, reduce your cat’s exposure to stray or feral cats to minimize the risk of future infestations.
Can Humans Get Cat Lice?
Fortunately, cat biting lice are highly species-specific and cannot infest humans. While you might temporarily find a louse on yourself after handling an infested cat, they cannot survive or reproduce on human skin. However, it’s always a good practice to wash your hands after handling an infested cat to prevent any potential transfer of parasites to other pets.
Conclusion
While cat biting lice are not as common as they once were, they can still be a nuisance for cats, particularly those with compromised health or grooming abilities. Recognizing the signs, seeking veterinary advice, and implementing appropriate treatment and environmental control measures are key to effectively managing and preventing lice infestations in your feline companion. Early detection and prompt treatment will ensure your cat remains comfortable and healthy.
