Flea & Tick Treatment for Kittens

Ticks and fleas can inhabit the bodies of most any living thing---and kittens are no exception. Preventing these pests from irritating your kitten is crucial, as they can cause a myriad of issues. If the infestation is bad enough, fleas can cause anemia, while ticks can carry many diseases, such as Lyme. However, not all flea and tick preventatives are created equal, and most require kittens to be of a certain age before they are safe to use. Research your intended products carefully to ensure their effectiveness and safety.

  1. Infestations

    • Fleas and ticks both feed off the blood of their host. Kittens can acquire fleas by spending a short amount of time in an area they inhabit, as well as staying in close quarters with an infested animal. Also, unsuspecting owners can bring fleas into their home on their shoes. The fleas can then create a population that infests the entire house, as well as the kitten. Ticks often latch onto an animal from blades of grass or trees.

    Products

    • There are many products out there that claim to treat and prevent fleas and ticks on kittens, but not all do the job. Some products are available at pet stores, as well as veterinary offices. Adams Plus Flea and Tick Mist IGR claims to prevent fleas, ticks and mosquitoes, as it contains the insect growth regulator Nylar. Bio Spot Spot On for Cats and Kittens kills fleas, flea eggs and ticks and provides protection against future infestations. In addition, Frontline Plus eliminates fleas, ticks and lice, while preventing them as well. TriForce Feline Squeeze On kills and prevents fleas and ticks and stops flea eggs from hatching.

    Application

    • Adams Plus Flea and Tick Mist IGR is sprayed onto kittens and should be reapplied every three months. Bio Spot Spot On for Cats is a liquid that is applied directly to the skin every 30 days. Frontline Plus is a topical treatment that is applied to the skin between the shoulder blades, once a month, as well. Triforce Feline Squeeze On is placed on the skin, begins working in about 60 minutes and needs reapplication every 30 days.

    Ages

    • Frontline Plus is said to be safe for use on kittens age eight weeks and older. Adams Plus Flea and Tick Mist IGR, Bio Spot Spot On for Cats and Triforce Feline Squeeze recommend that kittens are at least 12 weeks of age before using these products.

    Considerations

    • Kittens that are unhealthy should not undergo treatment for fleas and ticks, unless recommended by a veterinarian. In addition, do not apply flea and tick medication any earlier than is recommended by the manufacturer.