Fleas on cats

Overview

Fleas can cause big problems for cats, including skin disease, anemia, scratching and allergies. They can even pass on tapeworms, a type of intestinal parasite, to cats who eat them while grooming. Indoor cats are generally at low risk of flea infestation. However, 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.

Symptoms

• Small black specks on your cat's brush or comb
• Uncharacteristic scratching (both you and your cat!) and excessing grooming
• Hair loss (especially along the back of the legs or around the base of the tail)

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. Most are available at your veterinarian’s office or through a reputable online store. Make sure the ones you choose are approved for cats and never put flea control products intended for dogs on your cat. 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.

Liquid solutions

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 or back of the head, where it cannot be licked off. Some of these topical products only kill flea eggs and larvae, and others kill adult fleas as well. Both types are effective and are available at retail stores and veterinary offices everywhere.

Shampoos and powders

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 are also available, however, they provide minimal protection against fleas and can be dangerous if used in young cats, cats who are sick, and Persian cats. They can also be problematic if placed too tightly around your pet’s neck.

Clean your cat's environment of fleas

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 and frequently, 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. Also, 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. In some heavily flea infested areas, a pesticide company may need to treat your yard to help you get control of your flea problem.

The most effective and safe flea control products are available through your veterinarian.  Additionally, products are available at your favorite discount, grocery, and pet stores. Fleas can be very frustrating to control once you have a problem in your environment. You will save yourself a lot of money, frustration, and time by establishing a flea control program before you develop a flea infestation in your home. And remember, no matter what your plan of action is, in order to get a flea problem under control, you have to treat all the animals in the house, not just the ones who have obvious infestations.