Thinking that hairless animals, like Sphynx cats, don’t get fleas and other fur-related concerns is a misconception.
If you looked up “Do Sphynx cats get fleas?” on Google, then you’re in the right place. The short answer is yes; Sphynx cats do get fleas. They feel the same amount of discomfort and pain brought by the said blood-sucking parasites. The fact that Sphynx doesn’t have fur also doesn’t decrease the risks and dangers that come with being infested with fleas.
To get an even better idea of the relationship between Sphynx cats and fleas, read on to the following sections.
How Do You Know if Your Sphynx Cat Have Fleas ?
Fortunately, because a Sphynx cat is hairless, it will be easy to spot them for fleas if ever they have one. You can easily check their skin for possible parasites.
Below are some other effective ways that you can do to check your Sphynx for fleas:
1. Check for flea-related symptoms.
Apart from that, you should also look out for symptoms like constant scratching. Since the fleas will latch on to the Sphynx’s skin, it will irritate them, which will lead to them scratching themselves all the time. Other itch-related behavior like being always up on the scratching pad, constant meowing, and likes may also be observed.
Flea-infested Sphynx cats usually have red, bumpy skin, too. They can either be in obvious places like the cat’s back, stomach, or legs. In some cases, these bumps are hidden in their skin wrinkles, so make sure to include these folds when checking.
Since Sphynx cats are hairless, there will be no need to use a brush or other expensive tools when checking for fleas. You can just use your bare hands, which will actually be very helpful since it’s a particular way of checking the cat’s folds and wrinkles.
2. Maintain a monthly check-up for your Sphynx at the vet.
Even if you feel like there’s nothing wrong, it’s best if you go to the vet monthly for a regular general check-up. Since some Sphynx cats don’t show symptoms about having fleas until it gets really bad, opting for regular professional monitoring will ensure that your cat stays problem-free.
For a piece of advice, it’s recommended that you stick to one professional and reliable veterinarian for check-ups rather than going to a different one each time. If you’re new, then you may have to go through comprehensive research on the best vets around before fully committing to a clinic.
How Do You Get Rid of Fleas on a Sphynx Cat?
More often than not, asking “Do Sphynx cats get fleas?” is not enough. You also have to know things like how to get rid of the parasites, and better yet, how to prevent your hairless cats from getting fleas in the first place. In this section, we’re going to focus on the former.
Getting rid of fleas on a Sphynx cat will take a lot of work. Even if you think that your Sphynx is in the early, non-invasive stage, fully eliminating fleas does not have a one-step solution. For reference, here are some things that you can refer to:
1. Go to the vet.
If you have the budget to go directly to a vet, then it will probably be the most effective way to get rid of the fleas infesting your Sphynx. The professional will be able to give you the right treatment and products for the issue.
2. Give your Sphynx a bath with a flea treatment shampoo.
Usually, the most common solution that you can do at home is by bathing the Sphynx using a flea treatment shampoo. Some pet owners recommend using a dishwashing liquid that’s both fragrance-free and lotion-free, but if you want to stick to the safest option, then use specialized flea treatment shampoos instead.
Related Post: Best Flea Shampoo For Kittens
3. Apply spot treatment and anti-flea maintenance.
Apart from a wash-off treatment, vets also recommend using spot treatments and anti-flea maintenance during and after the flea infestation. These are usually in the form of leave-on ointments and sprays and are applied in severe cases where bites and rashes are present.
Keep in mind that treatments, including anti-flea shampoos, ointments, and after-care maintenance, should be approved by a vet.
It will even be better if the professionals prescribe it for your use. Opting for this will help you prevent making your Sphynx’s flea infestation worse than it is. You will also be able to avoid health complications in the long run.
Some people may recommend using other home remedies like essential oils, but remember to use the suggestions with caution. Assess the reputation of the person who suggested the idea and see if they really have the capacity to do so.
You can also find out more here: Flea Treatment For The Cat: The Most Efficient Way
How to Prevent Sphynx Cats from Getting Fleas?
Prevention is always better than cure. This applies even when it comes to fleas and Sphynx cats.
On the good side, you can actually avoid the said parasites by doing simple tasks, such as:
- Take your Sphynx cat to the groomers regularly.
- Follow the anti-flea maintenance provided by the vet.
- Keep your home clean and disinfected.
- Prevent your cat from interacting with rodents through traps and anti-rodent sprays.
- Keep all the other animals with your Sphynx flea-free.
- Consider asking your vet for flea prevention pills to be added to your Sphynx daily diet.
- Use an anti-flea spray for your Sphynx every after bath.
- Wash your cat’s bed, blanket, and toys weekly.
- Make it a habit to vacuum your carpets and floors.
- Continue with your Sphynx’s monthly check-up with or without fleas.
As you can see, you don’t have fewer responsibilities just because a Sphynx is hairless. You still have to pay the same extensive attention in the same way of caring for a hairless cat. Focus on keeping not just the cat but also the surroundings clean since that is one of the most common ways that flea infestations start.
Wrapping Up
For sure, you now know that the answer to the question whether an Sphynx cats get fleas? is yes. You’re also knowledgeable on how to check, remove, and prevent the said parasites. If you’re willing to go through all the trouble, then you can go on to care for a Sphynx.
Keep in mind that there are some circumstances where you can’t avoid dealing with fleas. The reasons may include the Sphynx’s habitat, living environment, and hygiene. If this happens, make sure to reread the flea removal tips that we talked about. Consulting a professional vet will also help a lot.
