The fleas on cats have the larval level of the tapeworm. These worms have the potential to bring about diseases. If the kitten is weak, it will die of anemia because the fleas live on their blood. For this reason, treatment must be done immediately.
Signs and Indicators
These pests are not easy to spot. However their presence is likely if the cat starts scratching more often than usual. If you want to be sure, use a comb on its hair. If the fleas are there it will stick to the comb.
In other cases the flea dirt will end up on the surface where you are combing the cat. This dirt is made of excrement and dried blood. It looks like ordinary dirt but it is not. If you crush flea dirt in water, it will leave red traces.
How the Flea Grows and Develops
This creature can live off the cat for half a year. A couple of days after settling on the cat, the female will start producing eggs. These will drip off the cat’s fur along with the dirt. You will find these in the cat’s bedding.
Eventually the larvae will turn into pupae, enwrapped in a cocoon. The adult flea will grow inside it. When a host is nearby, the flea will emerge and attach itself to it.
Available Treatment for Fleas on Cats
There are many kinds of remedies available. The older treatments include ingredients like pyrethrum, carbamate and organophosphate. These are effective but you need to follow the instructions carefully to ensure nothing goes wrong.
Spot-on Treatment
Spot-on treatments consist of medicinal drops applied at the skull base or the back of the cat’s neck. From the initial dropping point, the treatment spreads all over the body. The treatment is widely used today.
The effectiveness and duration of the product varies per product. Note also that these treatments work in different ways. Some are designed to kill the pests. Other spot-on treatments focus on hindering the eggs’ growth.
Powders
The main advantage of using powder is it remains in effect as long as it is on the fur. The risk is that the cat may end up digesting the powder. Do not allow the animal to groom if you decide to use this. You should also avoid applying excess powder. The cat may inhale it, leading to breathing difficulty.
Collars
Collars are no longer recommended by most experts on cat care. Some cats become allergic to the chemicals it contains. If you plan to use a collar, ensure your cat does not have sensitive skin.
Tips and Warnings
If the cat is pregnant, ensure the medication is fit for it. Do not use any type of medication except those formulated for cats. If you are uncertain as to what medication to use, consult your vet. They will be able to recommend something suitable for your pet.
Fleas on cats can lead to health complications if they are not treated properly. After applying treatment, clean the house too, so any remaining pests will be destroyed.
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