Last Updated: 06/05/2025

Can Indoor Cats Get Fleas?

It's a common misconception that indoor cats don't get fleas. Our expert vets breakdown everything you need to know.

Author: Dr Maree Monaghan BVSc (Hons)

Reading Time: 38 minutes - long read

Indoor tortoise shell cat sitting on a couch

Can Indoor Cats Get Fleas

Yes, indoor cats can get fleas. Contrary to popular belief, indoor cats are not immune to fleas and they are incredibly resilient and versatile parasites that can find their way into your home and onto your cat in a variety of ways. Understanding how this happens is the first step towards effective prevention and treatment.

How Do Indoor Cats Get Fleas?

Fleas can infiltrate your home through several avenues. One of the most common ways is through other pets in the household. If you have a dog that spends time outdoors, for instance, it can easily pick up fleas and bring them inside, where they can then infest your cat.

Humans can also unwittingly transport fleas into the home. Fleas can latch onto clothing, shoes, or other items and be carried inside. Once there, they can jump onto your cat and make themselves at home.

Rodents and other wildlife can also bring fleas into your home. If you have a rodent problem, those mice or rats could be carrying fleas. Similarly, if your cat spends time near windows or screened-in porches, they could potentially come into contact with fleas from possums, birds, or other wildlife.

Lastly, if you live in an apartment building or are moving into a new home, fleas can be a concern. Fleas can survive for a long time without a host, so if the previous tenants or owners had pets with fleas, those fleas could still be present.

Factors Contributing to Flea Infestations in Indoor Cats

Several factors can contribute to a higher risk of flea infestations in indoor cats. The presence of other pets, particularly those that spend time outdoors, is a significant factor. The more animals in the home, the higher the chances of fleas being brought inside.

The environment can also play a role. Fleas thrive in warm, humid conditions. Therefore, homes with such conditions can be more susceptible to flea infestations.

Human behaviour can also contribute to the risk. If you frequently visit places where animals are present, such as parks or friends' homes with pets, you could potentially bring fleas back to your own home.

Lastly, lack of preventive measures can lead to flea infestations. Many cat owners don't use flea preventatives on their indoor cats because they believe the risk is low. However, as we've seen, indoor cats can and do get fleas, so using a preventative is always a good idea.

Signs of a Flea Infestation in Your Indoor Cat

Even indoor cats can fall victim to flea infestations, and recognizing the signs early can help you take swift action to alleviate your cat's discomfort and prevent the infestation from worsening. Here are some common signs that your indoor cat may have fleas:

More frequent grooming

Cats are naturally clean animals and spend a significant portion of their day grooming themselves. However, if you notice your cat grooming more frequently than usual, especially focusing on certain areas, it could be a sign of fleas.

Biting at the skin

Fleas can cause severe itching, leading your cat to bite at their skin in an attempt to relieve the discomfort. This is often accompanied by noticeable restlessness.

Presence of flea dirt

Flea dirt is essentially flea faeces, which looks like tiny black or dark brown specks. It's often found in the cat's fur, particularly near the base of the tail or around the neck. If you notice these specks on your cat or in their bedding, it's a clear sign of fleas.

Severe itching, hair loss, redness, and/or raised bumps on the skin

Fleas can cause a range of skin problems in cats. In addition to severe itching, you may notice hair loss, especially in areas where your cat has been biting or scratching. Redness and raised bumps are also common, indicating inflammation caused by the flea bites.

Anaemia in severe cases

In severe infestations, especially in kittens or elderly cats, the loss of blood caused by the fleas feeding can lead to anemia. Signs of anaemia include pale gums, lethargy, loss of appetite, and rapid breathing.

Treating Your Indoor Cat For Fleas

Once you've identified a flea infestation in your indoor cat, it's crucial to take immediate action to eliminate these pests. Treating a cat for fleas involves a two-pronged approach: treating your cat and treating your home.

The first step in treating a flea infestation is to address the problem directly at the source: your cat. There are numerous safe and effective products available on the market designed specifically for treating fleas in cats. These include topical treatments that are applied directly to the cat's skin, collars and oral medications.

Topical treatments, also known as spot-on treatments for cats, are among the most commonly used. They're easy to apply and can start killing fleas within hours. Cat flea collars, flea sprays and oral medications are another option. Regardless of the type of product you choose, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian before starting any treatment. Your vet can recommend the most appropriate product based on your cat's age, weight, overall health, and the severity of the infestation. Remember, never use a product designed for dogs on your cat, as it can be harmful or even fatal.

Treating Your Home

Treating your cat alone won't solve the problem if your home is infested with fleas. Flea eggs, larvae, and pupae can be present in your carpets, furniture, and even in the cracks of your floors. Therefore, a thorough cleaning is necessary.

Start by vacuuming your entire home, paying special attention to areas where your cat spends a lot of time. Vacuuming can help remove a significant number of flea eggs, larvae, and pupae. Be sure to dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister outside to prevent any surviving fleas from re-infesting your home. Washing your cat's bedding and any other washable items your cat frequently comes into contact with in hot water can also help kill fleas in various life stages.

In severe infestations, you may need to use flea-killing products for your home, such as sprays or foggers. These products can help kill fleas in all life stages. However, they should be used with caution, following all manufacturer's instructions, as they can be harmful if misused.

Remember, treating a flea infestation takes time. Fleas have a life cycle that can last several weeks, so it's important to continue treatment as directed by your vet and to keep your home clean to prevent a re-infestation.

How To Prevent Fleas in Indoor Cats

Preventing a flea infestation is far easier and less stressful than treating one. Here are some strategies to help keep your indoor cat flea-free:

Use of Effective Flea Preventatives

One of the most effective ways to prevent flea infestations is the regular use of flea preventatives. These come in various forms, including topical treatments, sprays, collars and tablets. Topical treatments are applied directly to your cat's skin and can kill fleas on contact, preventing them from biting your cat in the first place. Your vet can recommend the best type of preventative for your cat based on their health, age, and lifestyle. See our guide to the best flea and tick treatments for cats

Limiting Opportunities for Your Cat to Be Exposed to Fleas

While your indoor cat is less likely to encounter fleas than an outdoor cat, there are still ways fleas can find their way inside. If you have a dog or other pets that go outside, they can bring fleas into the house. Try to limit your cat's contact with other animals that could potentially carry fleas. If your cat enjoys sitting by windows or screened doors, make sure the screens are secure to prevent fleas from getting in.

Rodent-Proofing Your Home

Rodents can carry fleas into your home. Therefore, taking steps to rodent-proof your home can help prevent flea infestations. This includes sealing any cracks or holes where rodents could enter, keeping your home clean to avoid attracting rodents, and addressing any existing rodent problems promptly.

Regular Vet Visits for Wellness Checks

Regular vet visits are crucial for your cat's overall health and can also help in the prevention of fleas. During a wellness check, your vet will examine your cat for signs of fleas and other parasites. They can also provide advice on the best flea preventatives to use and other steps you can take to keep your cat healthy and flea-free. Regular vet visits are an essential part of preventative care and can help catch any potential issues early, before they become major problems.

Remember To Protect Your Cat

In conclusion, while indoor cats may seem safe from the menace of fleas, they are not completely immune. Fleas are crafty parasites that can find their way into even the most secure and cleanest of homes. However, with the right knowledge and proactive measures, you can protect your feline friend from these unwelcome guests.

Regular use of flea preventatives, maintaining a clean home, limiting exposure to potential flea carriers, and regular vet visits are all crucial steps in ensuring your cat remains healthy and flea-free. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. Don't wait until you notice signs of a flea infestation to take action.

Start implementing these preventive measures today, and keep your home a safe and comfortable space for your beloved pet. If you have any concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your vet. They are your best resource for ensuring the health and well-being of your furry friend.

Flea Treatments For Cats