Flea shampoos are one method of temporarily ridding cats of fleas. Although these shampoos aren't the safest method of flea control, they can help for very bad infestations on a cat. Many shampoos, especially those you may find at your local supermarket, contain chemicals that can be toxic, however. To protect your cat's health, use only vet-approved flea shampoos and never use flea shampoos formulated for dogs on your cat.
-
Types
-
Chemical flea shampoos are widely available at supermarkets and pet supply stores. Ingredients vary, product to product, but many contain insecticides, such as pyrethrin or permethrin. Organic shampoos for cats are also available. Note, however, that many of these contain essential oils, such as citrus oil, or tea tree oil, that may be too strong for use on cats.
Features
-
Flea shampoos must normally be left on the cat a bit longer than regular shampoos so that all the fleas are killed. The product should then be rinsed thoroughly from the cat. Many contain scents and coat-conditioners to make your cat's coat appear healthier, along with flea-killing ingredients.
Effects
-
Insecticides in flea shampoos quickly stun or kill fleas. The soapiness of the shampoo itself also aids in flea death by essentially drowning them. Some flea shampoos continue to deter fleas for a short time after, but most simply kill fleas already present on your cat.
Prevention/Solution
-
To prevent recurrences of fleas, remember that if your cat has fleas, chances are some have laid eggs in bedding or carpeting. Cleaning and vacuuming the home are necessary to prevent flea populations from getting out of control. In addition, your vet can recommend a good flea preventative so that shampooing your cat with flea shampoo won't be necessary in the future.
Warning
-
Never use dog flea shampoo on cats. In addition, some cats may be highly sensitive to ingredients in flea shampoo, especially pyrethrins and permethrins--watch for signs of toxicity, such as nervousness, lethargy, drooling, vomiting or seizure. Keep alert for allergic reactions as well. Symptoms of allergic reaction include scratching, skin rash, wheezing and coughing.
Considerations
-
If your cat has sensitive skin, or you are concerned about using chemicals or strong shampoos on your cat, try bathing her in a very mild cat shampoo. Leave soap on her long enough to start drowning the adult fleas and then rinse her thoroughly. Next, you can use a flea comb to pull out remaining fleas. Although this is not always as effective as flea shampoos, done frequently it will greatly cut down on the number of fleas on your cat.
-