There are many preventative flea control products available, consult your veterinarian to choose the product that will work best for you and your pet. It is very important NOT to use dog products on your cat. They can be very toxic. Wash your pet’s bedding frequently. Keep the outside of your house free of organic debris, such as rake clippings and leaves and remember that fleas like to hide in dark, moist, shady areas.
What are fleas?
Fleas are the most common external parasite for cats. In addition to causing itching and other skin problems, fleas can transmit diseases to animals and people. The majority of the flea population (i.e. eggs, larvae, and pupae) are found off cat’s and around the home.
How do fleas harm the cats?
Most people have no idea that fleas can kill. Fleas are blood-sucking insects and enough fleas can cause a slow, but still life-threatening blood loss. Many cats also show an allergic reaction to flea bites and will scratch so much they cause skin infections.
Why is treating and preventing fleas so important?
Pupae are resistant to freezing, drying, insecticides and can lie dormant for many months! New fleas develop from pupae and can begin feeding within hours of finding a dog or cat. The entire flea life cycle can be completed in as little as three weeks. We have all heard of the saying that one flea can lay up to 1000 eggs!
What are simple steps for treating fleas in your cat?
The most important step to take in eliminating a flea infestation is to treat all animals in the house with a licensed flea product for a minimum of 3-6 months. The long flea lifecycle and the fact that it reproduces in the environment makes this step essential. We offer oral and topical flea treatment for your cat.
Treating the environment such as the house, bedding, car, and cottage is also important.
Wash bedding in hot water and place it in the dryer. Once you vacuum the house, ensure you throw the vacuum cleaner bag out. Watch for tapeworms. Cats that have ingested fleas as they groom can develop tapeworm infections.
