Fleas may attack some cats more than others. The skin of some cats is better at repelling fleas and ticks than others. Some cats will itch and lose hair with only a flea or two. Others may carry some fleas around without symptoms. Some cats will get ear mites…others won’t. The cats that end up carrying fleas aren’t stingy and are glad to share these hitchhikers with their owners and other pets.
Flea control on cats can also prevent common parasites carried and spread by fleas. Tapeworms and cat scratch fever bugs are examples of other parasites also spread by the blood sucking fleas. If fleas are controlled, then these other problems are controlled also. If someone in your house is immune-compromised then controlling hemobartonellosis or cat scratch fever, then flea control is more important.
If fleas are a problem in your house and yard, here is a summary of the most common flea control products. I have had both topical products listed below cause skin irritation. Kato, a Siamese cat, used to run off like he had been shot after a topical was used. Both topicals can cause cats to act weird or lethargic for a couple days. If your cat is sensitive to one, try the other and use a half dose to see what happens. If both cause symptoms then make sure all other animals are treated and do some flea killing housekeeping.(bedding washing, vacuuming, and bathing at least weekly)
Advantage: Uses
imidacloprid as the active ingredient, and is generally regarded as safe for cats and kittens over six weeks of age. It spreads over the body, absorbed and is absorbed in the layers of the skin. Monthly application needed. Is waterproof but can be removed by bathing with shampoo. Does not kill ticks. People often mistakenly use ADVANTANTIX on cats. This causes tremors, seizures, and sometimes can be fatal. Make sure the product you use is safe for cats.
Frontline: Kills both fleas and ticks. Uses a ingredient called
fipronil. Spreads over the skin and concentrates in the oil glands. Monthly application needed. Not removed by shampoo.
Natural: Takes more work and persistence, without the chemicals
· Flea comb three times per week and/or bathe weekly. Check for fleas or flea poop(dirt that turns red with moisture)
· Washing bedding and vacuuming( empty vacuum bag or discard after vacuuming)
· Diatomaceous Earth: apply to living area where fleas hide (not pool grade)
· Increase omega oils by feeding more fish oil(1capsule), canola(1 tsp), sardines, tuna twice to three times per week.
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About the author:
I love animals and their bond with us. My new book Dog Dish Diet: Sensible Nutrition for Your Dog's Health is out and available on my website (http://dogdishdiet.com ). I have been an animal lover my whole life. As a teenager, I worked at a pet sh...
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