|
About C.A.T.
|
Local Branches.
|
Support & Contact.
|
Links.
|
Cat Health & Info.
|
Flea Control.
During the warmer months we see a seasonal increase in fleas on cats (and dogs) and in the environment. If your cat has a large infestation you can see the fleas running through the coat or jumping! However they are not as easy to spot when present in small numbers or if your cat has a dark coat.
In addition because cats groom so thoroughly the cat may be removing the evidence. It is a good idea to check your cat for fleas by combing through the coat and then placing any bits of 'dirt' on a piece of wet cotton wool, the flea dirt is dried digested blood and will run reddish / brown
During the warmer months we see a seasonal increase in fleas on cats (and dogs) and in the environment. If your cat has a large infestation you can see the fleas running through the coat or jumping!
However they are not as easy to spot when present in small numbers or if your cat has a dark coat. In addition because cats groom so thoroughly the cat may be removing the evidence. It is a good idea to check your cat for fleas by combing through the coat and then placing any bits of ‘dirt’ on a piece of wet cotton wool, the flea dirt is dried digested blood and will run reddish / brown
Flea Allergies
Some cats can tolerate fleas without showing any signs, while others are allergic to the flea saliva and even one bite is extremely irritant and can lead to eczema.
If your cat has a skin condition we recommend that you take him or her to your local vet (it may not be due to fleas). In addition they will be able to give you advice about the flea treatment that best suits your particular pets and their circumstances.
Cat and dog fleas are different but the majority of fleas found on dogs are in fact cat fleas - this means that the cat is picking up fleas when it is outside and in contact with the general cat population and is bringing them in to give to the dog. (See image of cat flea above)
Flea treatment and control
When embarking on your control program it is important to treat all the cats and dogs in the household and to treat at the recommended interval for the product you use. There are a range of products on the market and some common types are summarised below.
Flea spray
There are various sprays that can be used to treat fleas on cats and dogs, and some of the newer ones last several months. There are hand pumps which make less noise than a pressurised can and are better tolerated by cats. Some products can be used on young kittens, but it is recommended that you consult your own vet before applying any preparations to the mother or her kittens.
Drops
These are applied to the skin at the back of the neck. They may not last as long as some of the sprays, but in my experience can be a better guarantee of success (once the word is out that the spray can is about!). Remember that a weak link in the chain (‘Well, I can’t keep a hold of Buster for long enough to spray him’) will allow some fleas to survive.
Others
These include collars, powder and shampoos(!). These are generally not as effective, but may be adequate for prevention. Treating the pets habitatThe fleas only feed on the cat (or dog) and then drop off to lay eggs in the environment (one flea can lay up to 200 eggs!). Therefore it is important to treat the cat’s bedding and household furnishings to deal with the whole problem.
There are a variety of sprays on the market which give long lasting control. Additional controlThere is a product available as a tablet or injection for cats, it sterilises the flea and this will stop the flea.
