June 19, 2013

Getting Rid of Fleas | Flea Infestation Treatments & Cats | Summerville Veterinary

Getting Rid of Fleas  Flea Infestation Treatments & CatsEvery pet owner knows that fleas are the most common of the parasites found in domestic cats and getting rid of fleas can be a real challenge if a flea infestation is allowed to occur.  If you are a pet owner, you will probably battle over control of at least cat flea infestation over your cat’s lifetime.  Unfortunately, some cats suffer from an allergic reaction to the flea’s saliva making it an even more difficult situation to contend with.  If you have a cat that suffers from this disorder, even a few flea bites are enough to cause a severe skin irritation.  Itchy skin, scabby bumps and hair loss are signs of hypersensitivity to flea bites however these signs are not always evident.

For cats kept indoors, flea infestation is usually not a problem however if you have other animals, especially dogs, even the indoor cat can be flea infested and should be given some kind of a regular flea treatment.

Frequently noticed symptoms of flea infestations in cats are itching and scratching, digging at the cat’s skin with the mouth.  You can part the hair and see fleas running around on the skin if the infestation is well established however looking for visible signs of flea droppings, or small black or brownish comma-shaped dirt is a visible sign of flea infestation often seen before you see any actual fleas.

Once on the flesh, the fleas feed within 5 minutes and eggs are laid within a day of feeding!  For this reason, flea control is vital and you must use a good quality flea treatment to rid fleas from your cat.

Combing with a flea comb and applying local flea products such as Bio Spot Flea & Tick Spray for Cats & Kittens or Bio Spot Flea & Tick Shampoo for Cats can help if your cat will tolerate it.  Using natural flea control products is another option.

Frontline Plus for Cats – 3pk, Revolution, Advantage 4pk Cat Orange 1-9 Lbs and Vectra can also reduce the fleas to a great extent and are convenient as they only need to be applied monthly.  Just be sure that any flea products that you decide to use are labeled specifically for cats and make sure to follow the directions carefully to avoid any adverse effects.  A Sentry Natural Defense Household Flea & Tick Spray may also help reduce flea infestation.

In severe cases, or for cats that you suspect are hypersensitive and allergic to fleas, a visit to your local veterinarian should be made.  Only your veterinary specialist should diagnose and treat your cats’ skin conditions.