Our updated flea policy

Nobody wants fleas in their home, especially when they’re away enjoying their holiday and their cat is being cared for!

At The Cat Care Co, our staff visit multiple homes every day, so we have a responsibility to protect every cat and household we visit. That’s why we’ve recently updated our flea policy.

Why are we taking fleas seriously?

Fleas are more than just an itchy nuisance. They can spread easily between animals and homes, and flea eggs, larvae and pupae can remain in the environment even when adult fleas aren't visible. This means fleas can potentially be carried from one home to another on clothing, footwear or equipment. They can also affect indoor cats, so being kept indoors doesn't guarantee protection.

For vulnerable, elderly or unwell cats, a significant flea burden can cause serious health problems, and fleas can bite people too.

What happens if we find evidence of fleas?

Evidence may include seeing live fleas, finding flea dirt, excessive scratching or grooming, or flea bites on a member of staff.

If fleas are suspected, we will reduce visits to essential pop-in care and minimise contact with the cat and its environment.

Our staff will not treat the cat or home for fleas. 

Instead, the client's emergency contact will be asked to arrange:

• Appropriate treatment of the cat with a suitable flea treatment product.

• Professional treatment of the home/environment.

Professional treatment of the home is important because treating the cat alone does not necessarily remove an infestation. Fleas can continue to emerge from the environment for weeks after the cat has been treated.

Supermarket and general over-the-counter flea products can be useful for routine prevention, but they are not a substitute for professional treatment of an established household infestation.

We may request evidence that both the cat and home have been appropriately treated before normal visits resume.

Our staff may also wear PPE and take additional precautions while providing essential care.

Please tell us if you suspect fleas

If you suspect your cat has fleas before we care for them, please tell us — even if you're not completely sure.

There is absolutely no judgement. We'd much rather know so we can take appropriate precautions than unknowingly carry fleas into another client's home.

Keeping quiet because you're worried about having your visits reduced could put other cats and households at risk.

The sooner we know, the sooner we can act.

Our policy isn't about penalising anyone for having fleas. Infestations can happen even when owners are doing everything right. It's about responsibly managing the risk and protecting the many cats and homes our team visits every day.

How can you help prevent fleas?

Regular, effective flea prevention is one of the best ways to protect your cat and your home.

• Use an appropriate product: Choose a treatment suitable for your cat's species, age and circumstances. Your vet can advise if you're unsure.

• Keep it up to date: Follow the product's recommended treatment schedule.

• Use a reliable source: Your vet or a reputable veterinary pharmacy can advise on suitable products.

• Remember the home: If fleas are already present, treating the cat alone may not be enough. The home environment may also need treatment.

Finding fleas can be frustrating and embarrassing, but we won't judge you. What matters is that we know so we can protect your cat, our staff and the other cats and households we care for.

So if you think your cat might have fleas, please tell us as soon as possible. Because caring for your cat also means caring for the wider cat-care community. 🐾