A Guide for Protecting Cats from Fleas and Ticks

 A Guide for Protecting Cats from Fleas and Ticks

 Cats are known for wandering around looking for something to get into. It is true that some cat guardians never let their felines go outdoors, while others prefer for them to live outdoors. Whatever the case may be, all felines are at risk of ticks and fleas. Some owners have worked diligently to combat this problem but only fail in the end because they do not know how to protect their cat properly. Luckily, there are many ways to protect felines from fleas. Below, you will discover several tips to help get you started in the right direction.

Learn The Warning Signs

One of the first things you will need to do is learn about the warning signs of fleas. These signs include anything from excessive scratching to actually spotting fleas buried in the feline’s fur. If these signs are detected you will need to immediately take action. There are many different brands of over-the-counter flea and tick shampoos available. These products will eradicate these pests on contact, so they will no longer be a problem for your cat. However, these shampoos will not prevent a future tick or fleas appearing. 

Routinely Comb Your Cat’s Fur

Most cats are attention seekers, so they will appreciate you combing their fur. By performing this task at least once a week, you will be able to skim off fleas and their eggs, if any are present. You will need to invest in a fine-toothed flea comb made of metal. The comb will reach down into the cat’s fur, gently raking the skin. This process can be time consuming, since you will need to comb your cat from head to tail. Veterinarians recommend repeating this process several times a day for cats that spend most of their time outdoors.

Flea And Tick Control Products

One of the best ways to ensure your cat is flea-free is to invest in topical solutions that are applied to the fur on a monthly basis. These products are very effective in eradicating fleas on contact. If you your cats go outdoors it would also be wise to protect them all from heartworm, roundworm and hookworm. Just buy Heartgard plus chewables and administer them to your cat monthly to protect them from this parasite.

Keep Your Home Free Of Fleas

You have probably already learned that outdoor cats can bring fleas and ticks into your home. To keep your pet free of fleas, you will also need to keep your home free of fleas. You can do this by vacuuming your home daily and utilizing non toxic flea control treatments. These are available at most retail and big box stores for an affordable price.

You should also wash your cat’s bedding or your bedding if the cat likes to lounge on your bed. When washing your sofa covers, bedding and other fabrics use hot water, which will eradicate the fleas on contact. Follow up with a thorough drying cycle on the maximum temperature level. The key is to eradicate the fleas and their eggs, so they do not cause a severe infestation in your home.

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19 thoughts on “A Guide for Protecting Cats from Fleas and Ticks

  1. maryltonks says:

    There are many good products on the market to eliminate fleas from your pets and your environment! Check with the vet and do not use a dog product on a cat! We’ve been flea-free for years using Advantage for Cats. Good information!

  2. foguth says:

    Catnip is a good insect repellent. I lightly sprinkle this on their beds and areas they like to lounge – they like it and I don’t mind the scent.

      • foguth says:

        Well, it’s true. Researcher shows that nepetalactone, the essential oil in catnip, is about ten times more effective at repelling mosquitoes than DEET — the compound used in most commercial insect repellents. It has the side benefit of attracting cats 😉

        • Marc-André says:

          Makes you wonder why it’s not used instead. And I bet you the catnip Wikipedia article doesn’t list that either… been trying to update a few wiki entries recently with no luck. Apparently the old school editors don’t like newbies making edits even if relevant.

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