We love our furry buddies, but when fleas invade, we just want them GONE! (the fleas, not our furry buddies). There are several different methods to eradicate these jumping critters; medications (oral and topical), collars, sprays, shampoos, and, of course, the good ole' flea comb.
Never used a cat flea comb before? Don't discount the usefulness of this simple tool.
In this post, we are going to discover what the cat flea comb is, how it works, some excellent tips in maximizing its effectiveness, and our top picks for the best cat flea comb on the market today.
Plus, as an added bonus, we'll give you some common signs of fleas on your feline.
Let's get pickin' at those flea comb facts!
What is a Cat Flea Comb?
Unlike a "regular" pet comb, the flea comb has teeth that are finely spaced. This allows it to nab and trap the fleas, their eggs, and the "dirt" they leave behind. These tightly-aligned teeth are also useful in collecting dander, debris, and regular dirt from your pet's coat.
Tips on How to Use a Flea Comb on a Cat
Since the flea comb serves the purpose of trapping and removing those pesky insects from your pet, following these tips on how to use a flea comb on a cat may prove to be particularly helpful.
Tip #1 - Only use a flea comb on a dry coat. If your cat's fur is wet, the comb will become easily tangled, making it more difficult to drag it through the hair.
Tip #2 - Fill a bucket with warm, soapy water and have it standing by. This is so you can;
- Rince the comb between strokes
- Have a holding place for the discarded fleas and their waste
Be sure your bucket is quite deep and only fill it to the halfway mark. This prevents the fleas from jumping back out.
Tip #3 - Comb your cat outside if possible - it's easier to contain the mess. However, if you can't go outside with this process, place a newspaper under the bucket and your pet. This will catch any fleas, flea eggs, and flea waste that falls off your cat.
Tip #4 - Begin combing your cat at his head. Work your way down to his neck and shoulders, towards his back and tail. Slide the comb slowly and gently, in the direction the fur grows. Comb his back, sides, and belly, finishing with his legs, paws, and tail.
Tip #5 - The fleas will scurry away on your pet, so you will have to repeat the process a few minutes later.
Tip #6 - Clean the comb often in your soapy water, as it will fill up quickly with fur and debris.
Tip #7 - Pay particular attention to your cat's belly/groin, armpits, tail, and under his chin. These are the "hot hangout spots" for fleas.
Tip #8 - After you have thoroughly combed your cat, be sure to let the bucket of water sit an extra 10 to 15 minutes. This gives the fleas a chance to drown.
Tip #9 - Discard the water. If you groom your feline inside, dispose of the newspaper and be sure to vacuum thoroughly around the area you used to comb your cat.
Note: It is unlikely that you will be able to remove all the fleas in one combing, so be prepared to repeat the process periodically.
Now that we have "picked" our way through all these helpful tips let's explore the best cat flea combs available for you to choose from.
Top 8Flea Comb For Cats
1. Pet Republique Dog & Cat Flea Comb
Defleaing, your cat, is a chore, but lessen your workload with the Pet Republique Pet Flea Comb. Made from fine and flexible pins this comb not only captures those pesky fleas, but it is useful in catching other debris such as dirt, ticks, mites, and loose hair. It will also reduce knots and mats on Kitty's coat when used on a regular basis. The ergonomic handle fits your hand comfortably, and the pins are manufactured to be tough, yet gentle on your pet's skin.
Pet Republique is a company with a heart. When you make a purchase through this brand, they will donate 15% off of the profits to the American Animal Rescue Society. Help other animals in need while you help your own furry pal.
features
- Works on all sizes and types of animals
- Durable, yet flexible
- Ergonomic handle
- Reduces shedding
- Catches all manner of debris lurking in cat's coat
- Free standard shipping
- Money back guarantee
- Affordable
- The company gives back to animals in need
2. Honbay 4 Packs Flea Lice Combs
Use one. Lend one. Lose one. Still, have one to spare with the Honbay 4-pack of flea/lice combs. These colorful plastic combs are perfect for picking fleas, mites, and other debris from your pet's coat. They are double-sided, so you can stroke-through the coat, flip it over and repeat the process before you need to clean it. Each comb measures 3.2 inches long by 2 inches wide, so that it will fit comfortably in your hand.
Honbay is confident you will love their product, so they are offering you a lifetime money back guarantee. You can't go wrong with this 4-pack of colorful flea combs.
features
- Works well on both cats and dogs
- Helps to identify other skin issues
- Narrow teeth are effective in removing fleas, flea dirt, and other debris in your pet's coat.
- Smooth and comfortable to use.
- Lifetime money back guarantee
- Comes in assorted colors
- Economically priced
3. Safari Pet Products Flea Comb
This single-sided cat flea comb will be your next best friend - it works well to trap and remove fleas from your feline's fur. Perfect for all sizes and shapes of cats, the Safari Flea Comb will significantly reduce debris in your pet's coat when used regularly.
The "teeth" measure ½ inch-long and are finely-spaced with 31 teeth for every inch of comb. The durable plastic handle has been designed to fit your hand to reduce hand fatigue when grooming your pet for extended periods. The company has even added a convenient hole at the end of the handle for secure hanging storage.
features
- Fine teeth capture debris
- Tough design
- Ergonomic handle design
- Economical
- Available in a 2-pack and with a longer comb
- Durable
- Help identify other skin issues and improve circulation
4. Hertzko Flea Comb
Speed up the flea pickin' process with the Hertzko Flea Comb - it's got two closely-spaced rows of pins! The rounded heads on the pins make it gentle on even the most sensitive of skin and will also gently massage your pet while you are trapping the fleas and their eggs. This action not only removes debris, but it will help improve your pet's blood circulation, leaving his coat soft and shiny.
The Hertzko Flea comb is made with rust-resistant, durable stainless steel, so you know it will last. Plus, it's also easy to clean.
features
- Double-rows of pins speeds up the process
- Made with stainless steel and durable plastic
- Pins measure ½ inch long
- Works on all types of coats
- Great for around the face
- Rounded pins are gentle on pet's skin
- Reasonably priced
- Durable
- Easy to clean
- Comes with a 30-day money back guarantee
5. SENTRY Flea Comb for Cats
You can trust the name of 'Sentry' when it comes to pet supplies, and the Sentry Flea Comb for Cats is no exception. Made from durable plastic with metal teeth this cat flea comb will nab those little pests before they have a chance to multiply.
The ergonomic handle is comfortable for longer sessions, while the ample length of pins will grab onto, not only fleas but their eggs and waste, too. Plus, the Sentry Flea Comb is perfect for collecting all those loose hairs before they end up on your furniture.
features
- Durable design
- Ergonomic handle
- Helps eliminate, fleas, flea eggs, and flea dirt
- Collects loose hair
- Economical
6. Zelta Pet Grooming Tool
Two sizes to fit them all! The Zelta Pet Grooming Tool is perfect for your feline friend that may (or may not) have fleas. The large comb measures a comfy 7" by 1.2" while the smaller version measures in at 5.5" by 0.8." The non-slip, ergonomic design on the handle will allow you to groom in comfort, while the durable pins are spaced perfectly to nab and grab onto all manner of debris lurking in your pet's coat.
Does your cat have sensitive skin? No problem. The Zelta flea comb has rounded teeth that won't scratch or scrape, making each grooming session a pleasant treat, not a painful task.
features
- Large comb measures 7" x 1.2."
- Small comb measures 5.5" x 0.8."
- Durable design - pins are made from zinc alloy and handle abs plastic
- Rounded pins won't scrap or scratch
- Economical
- Non-slip handle
7. SunGrow Flea Comb
Recommended by groomers, the SunGrow Flea Comb will bring out the shine in your pet's coat because it promotes blood circulation when used on a regular basis. If fleas are you and your pet's problem, the finely-spaced teeth are perfect for trapping these pests, along with their eggs and waste.
Each stainless steel pin measures in at 0.6" while the comb portion is 2.9 inches long. The durable handle is ergonomic and measures a generous 4.5 inches to fit nicely in any hand, Plus, it's lightweight and non-slip!
features
- The firm, yet gentle pins are great for sensitive pets
- Recommended by groomers
- Compact size fits neatly into a pocket or grooming bag
- Economically priced
- Great for all types of fur
- Effectively removes fleas, while trapping loose hair and dirt
- Improves circulation which promotes a shinier, healthier coat.
- Easy to use with an ergonomic handle
8. Hertzko Double-Sided Flea Comb
This two-in-one flea comb by the Hertzko brand removes fleas and detangles the coat! The wide-set teeth are perfect for detangling and loosing the undercoat, while the densely-packed pins will pick up any fleas, eggs, and their waste.
The pins are made from durable, rust-resistance stainless steel that has been designed with rounded ends to protect your pet's skin from scrapes or scratches. Plus, with regular usage, the Hertzko Double-Sided Flea Comb will improve your pet's circulation which helps promote a healthy coat.
features
- Double-sided for detangling and trapping fleas
- Stainless steel pins are rust resistant
- Gentle and safe on pet's sensitive skin
- Economical
- Easy to clean
- Improves circulation to promote a healthy coat
- 30-day money back guarantee
- Durable, ergonomic handle
Common Signs of Fleas on Your Feline
How do you know if your cat has fleas? These common signs can be a good indicator of a flea infestation.
- Restlessness
- Doing more scratching or chewing on certain areas of his body
- Shaking his head often and scratching at his ears.
- Excessive licking at the coat in an attempt to groom the fleas off..
- You can see fleas moving when you separate your cat's fur.
- Pepper-like debris (flea waste) on your cat's skin
According to PetMD, you will want to inspect your cat thoroughly for redness, blood, or dirt around his ears, in his groin, and the armpits. The skin on these areas may also appear to be bumpy, especially if Kitty has been scratching a lot. Hair loss may also be present in these areas from excessive grooming and scratching.
Fleas & Your Feline
If you suspect your cat has fleas, do all you can to eradicate the problem. Use a flea comb, to pick out the nasty pests, then use preventative measures to keep the fleas off your pet. These biting bugs are not healthy for your cat, you, or your family.