Soemtimes, it seems like nothing you do can prevent your cat from getting fleas. Even cats that never leave the house fight these nasty parasites as one little flea brought in by a family member or another pet that goes outside is all it takes to infect the entire household. To prevent the spread of fleas throughout the houshold, the key is to prevent them in the first place and if it does happen, treat it fast.
Things You'll Need
- Revolution or other parasite treatment
- Flea comb
- Slicker brush
Instructions
Prevent them in the first place. Keep you cat indoors if possible. This will not only expand the lifetime of your cat, as indoor cats live an average of two or three times longer than cats which are allowed to go outside, but it also helps prevent infection with ear mites, fleas and ticks. If you do allow you cat to roam outside, use monthly preventative medicine year-round or at least during the months when the ground outside is not frozen.
Brush your cat. In addition, to helping to prevent hairballs, this removes matted hair or other spots where parasites hide.
Watch for tell-tale signs. Obviously, some animals just like to scratch and cats are no different, but if you notice increased scratching or spots where the cat's fur looks matted, run a comb through the area and check for fleas. When using a slicker brush, watch for tiny black flecks sometimes called flea dirt in the fur. The flecks are really tiny scabs from the flea bites that your cat has suffered.
Grab an assistant to hold the cat. Revolution and other flea medicines sting a bit as they are applied and cats can smell it as soon as you open the tube. To prevent having to chase the cat around the house, have your assistant hold the cat before you open the medication. Be sure to use only cat medication and get the proper dosage. Too much medication or the wrong type can cause an allergic reaction in your cat.
Invest in a flea collar. There are several organic flea resistant collars made and some that exude chemical flea repellants. For an outdoor cat, this is a must. Be sure to get a break-away collar for your pet's safety.