What do cat lice look like? - briefly
Cat lice are small, wingless insects that can be seen with the naked eye. They typically measure between 1-3 millimeters in length and have a grayish-white color.
What do cat lice look like? - in detail
Cat lice, also known as Felicola subrostratus, are tiny parasitic insects that infest cats and can be quite distressing for both pets and their owners. To effectively address an infestation, it is crucial to understand what these pests look like in detail.
Cat lice have a distinct appearance, which sets them apart from other types of lice or mites that might infest animals. They are typically around 1-2 millimeters in length, making them barely visible to the naked eye. The body of a cat louse is oval-shaped and flat, allowing it to move easily through the fur. Their coloration ranges from pale yellow to light brown or grayish, blending seamlessly with the host's fur.
The most notable feature of cat lice is their size and relative lack of mobility compared to other parasites. Unlike fleas or ticks, which can jump or crawl rapidly, cat lice are slow-moving and primarily remain on the skin and fur of their host. They have six legs, with the hind legs being particularly strong and adapted for gripping onto hairs. The head is distinctly separated from the thorax, and the abdomen is segmented, typical of insects.
One unique characteristic of Felicola subrostratus is the presence of specialized claws on their feet, which are designed to grasp individual cat hairs tightly. This adaptation allows them to withstand grooming attempts by the cat and remain attached to the fur for prolonged periods. Additionally, cat lice lay their eggs directly onto the hair shafts, ensuring that new generations can continue the infestation cycle.
In summary, cat lice are small, oval-shaped insects with a color ranging from yellowish to light brown or gray. They have six legs and are characterized by their specialized claws for gripping fur. Understanding these details is essential for accurate identification and effective treatment of infestations in cats.