Cat Powder for Fleas

Flea infestations are common in households with cats that have access to the outdoors. Fleas can cause irritation, and are responsible for transmitting several diseases that affect both cats and their owners. Flea powders are a traditional remedy for flea infestations, but have their drawbacks if not used correctly. Take the time to determine whether flea powder is the right solution for your problem.

  1. Types

    • Flea powders come in two main types: products intended to be used on the cat, and products meant to kill fleas in the immediate environment. They may contain a pesticide (usually pyrethins), a boric acid derivative or herbal ingredients meant to repel fleas. It's important to research the specific type of flea powder you wish to use. Some have toxic side effects.

    Function

    • Flea powders work in different ways, depending on the formulation. Insecticide-based powders kill fleas on contact, but may become ineffective after a few days. They can also have toxic effects on you and your pets. Boric acid powders kill flea larvae before they can pupate, reducing the population in your home. These are highly effective, and have low toxicity in humans and animals, but don't address the population on your cat. Herbal powders work by using strong odors believed to repel fleas. Their effectiveness varies by brand and formulation.

    Benefits

    • Flea powders are easy to apply, do not require a vet visit or prescription and can be purchased relatively inexpensively. They're also available in more places than high-end flea treatments. Many people rely on flea powders because of their convenience and low cost. Herbal products may not be as cost effective as conventional ones, though they are usually non-toxic.

    Considerations

    • Downsides of using flea powder include the possibility of inhaling it, and the difficulty of administering an even coat, both on your cat and around your house. Insecticide flea powders lack residual effectiveness and cannot penetrate flea cocoons, so they may not kill off the entire infestation. If you do decide to use a flea powder, apply it only according to the manufacturer's instructions and be sure to use other methods to destroy fleas both on your cat and in your home.

    Warning

    • Some flea powders may have unpleasant results. If ingested or inhaled, insecticide powders can cause a pesticide overdose. Keep an eye on your cat for digestive problems, difficulty breathing or signs of nerve problems (including shaking and seizures). If you see any of these signs in your cat, take it to the vet immediately for treatment.