Cat Fleas Symptoms
Fleas can cause big problems for cats, including
skin disease, anemia, scratching and allergies.
They can even pass on tapeworm to cats who eat them.
Indoor cats are generally at low risk of flea infestation.
But if you cat shares your home with dogs, or if
your cat has access to a yard, you’ll need
a safe, effective strategy to keep your feline flea-free.
Do you notice small black specks left behind in
your cat’s brush or comb when you groom her?
This is a sign that your pet—and your home—are
hosts to fleas.
Tips on Flea Control Products
There are many products available to help you control
the adult fleas that feed on the blood of your pet.
Make sure the ones you choose are approved for cats.
Felines are extremely sensitive to insecticides,
and many pets die annually from the improper use
of flea control products. Some formulas may not
be appropriate for kittens under 4 months of age,
so heed the manufacturer’s instructions.
The most popular flea control products today are
the small squeeze-on tubes that contain a liquid
that is applied to the back of the cat’s neck,
where it cannot be licked off. Some of these topical
products only kill flea eggs and larvae, and others
kill adult fleas as well. But both types are effective
and are available at retail stores everywhere. Flea
and tick shampoo and flea powders are also effective
and safe, but require more frequent usage than the
topical squeeze-on products. Flea collars can be
a useful component of flea control. Make sure the
collar isn’t too tight and regularly check
your cat’s neck for signs of infection—Persians
are particularly sensitive. Never use a flea collar
on a small kitten or sick animal.
Clean Your Cat’s Environment of Cat Fleas
But no amount of on-animal insecticide will solve
the problem if you don’t treat the environment,
too. You’ll need to eradicate the adult fleas
on your pet, as well as the eggs and larvae that
live in rugs, upholstery and your pet’s bedding.
Vacuum thoroughly, especially where your pet sleeps
and eats. Remember to throw out the vacuum bag regularly.
If your cat is severely infested, you may need to
apply an area spray or powder directly to rugs,
chairs and other areas frequented by your pet. Foggers
are an option in cases of severe household infestation,
but some brands may not kill flea eggs. To cover
all the bases, you may need to re-fog in two weeks,
when the eggs have hatched. During each application,
you must evacuate human and animal occupants for
about four hours.
Effective and safe flea control products are available
at your favorite discount, grocery and pet store.
Additionally, your vet may be able to dispense similar
products. In any case, the over-the-counter products
and the vet-dispensed products are required to meet
the same safety and efficacy standards. And remember,
no matter what your plan of action is, ANIMED
recommends that you treat all the animals in the
house, not just the ones who have obvious infestations.
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