Ticks are also parasites that suck blood from your pet. Many diseases can be contracted from tick bites, including Lyme disease.
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What Are Fleas and Ticks?
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Being outside in warm weather can be a problem for cats that aren't being treated for fleas and ticks. Fleas are a type of insect that feeds on blood. It only takes one flea to produce an infestation. Fleas lay their eggs in an animal's fur and start producing more fleas. They can jump from one animal to another or to their human companions.
Parasites thrive in warmer climates. Ticks are mostly found in shrubs or grass. A tick bite can produce problems ranging from mild to severe.
Symptoms and Treatments
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Cats that have been bitten will constantly be scratching themselves. Your cat could lose patches of his fur, and the areas underneath can become inflamed and irritated. Your pet may not eat as much as he usually does. It would be safe to assume if you have other animals they have been infected as well.
The first thing to do would be to bathe your cat thoroughly. Dawn dish soap is a good one to use. Next your vet will prescribe either a topical ointment or a powder to take care of the immediate problem. These medicines are very strong and contain pesticides so use them with extreme care. Another option would be a flea dip.
Treating Your Home
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After your cat is diagnosed with fleas, your house will need to be cleaned thoroughly. Carpets will need to be vacuumed, sheets and blankets washed and any place your cat likes to spend time will need to be cleaned. A fogger may need to be used in your home to make sure all of the fleas are killed. If it's a mild infestation or you don't feel comfortable using toxins in your home, natural remedies are available. Eucalyptus oil can be mixed with water and sprayed on to furniture and carpets to prevent fleas from reappearing.
If the infestation was particularly severe, you may need to contact an exterminator.
Prevention/Solution
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The key to flea and tick control is prevention. Your vet can prescribe medicine that can be applied monthly to your pet. Keeping your pet clean is also important.
Most of the same products that treat fleas will also treat ticks. If you live in an area highly populated with ticks, year round prevention may be in order. The best way to prevent any pet from these infections would be to keep them indoors. Indoor cats tend to be healthier, have fewer illnesses and live longer than outdoor pets.
Warning
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Consider the age and health issues of your cat when seeking treatment. Some flea and tick medicine isn't safe for newborn kittens or pregnant cats, or cats that are older or have health issues.
Dogs and cats are not able to take the same flea medication. If you also have canine companions, let your vet know so she can treat each animal accordingly.
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