Nursing cats and kittens: hygiene and parasite basics

Introduction

Parasites do not pause when kittens arrive. Protection matters, but safety comes first. Always ask your vet before giving any product to a nursing queen. The tips below keep the nest clean and support your vet’s plan.

Clean, warm and dry

• Line the nest with washable blankets; hot wash and dry well

• Change bedding daily in the first two weeks and whenever soiled

• Keep the area warm, draft-free and dry

• Use a shallow litter tray nearby for the queen; scoop often to reduce flea hotspots

Checks and routines

• Comb the queen’s coat gently and spot-clean if needed

• Do a light visual check on kittens during weigh-ins; avoid harsh shampoos

• Keep other pets out of the nursery and on their own prevention plan

• Vacuum room edges and soft surfaces; empty the vacuum outside

Worming and prevention

• Your vet will set a kitten worming schedule and advise on when to start flea control safely

• For the queen, your vet will recommend suitable spot-on timing while nursing if appropriate

• Do not stack different products without advice

When to call your vet

• Scratching around the mammary area, skin irritation, or poor kitten weight gain

• Lethargy, drooling, vomiting, or diarrhoea after any product use

• Travel plans to tick-risk areas during nursing

Products we trust

(Discuss with your vet for nursing suitability and timing before use.)

• Revolution Plus Spot-On for Cats — monthly spot-on with broad cover when used as directed

• Bravecto Spot-On for Cats — long-acting flea and tick control

• Revolution Topical Solution for Cats — monthly fleas and mites with heartworm prevention

Safety basics

• Cat-only products for cats; never apply a dog product to a cat

• Match current weight band and minimum age

• Do not use multiple spot-ons together unless your vet advises

• Keep the application site high on the neck where the queen cannot lick

FAQ

Should I treat the nursery room as well?
Yes. Vacuum daily at first and wash bedding hot. Keep things dry and clutter-free.

When do the kittens start prevention?
Your vet will confirm timing for your litter’s age and weight.

Need a one-to-one plan for your queen and kittens?
Tell us ages and weights and we’ll work with your vet’s advice — contact us.