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Fleas In Cat

Fleas In Cat: A Comprehensive Guide

Jan 20, 2021 Posted by: Abdelhak Hacht Cats

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Your cat's warm, lovely coat and bloodstream is what every flea dreams about. They are one of the most unpleasant insects for most cat lovers. Even cats who do not go outside can get them and make the owner think - how did my indoor cat get them, and how to get rid of fleas on your cats?

Even one insect growth that has settled in the pet's fur causes itching, provokes constant scratching, which, in turn, entails the appearance of wounds, scratching, and related troubles. Besides, common flea bites can cause various diseases of the animal and dogs. The treatment of which will be long and expensive.

Can Fleas On Cats Spread To Humans?

Can Fleas On Cats Spread To Humans?

It would be best for you not to panic as soon as you see your kitten or cat rubbing and scratching itself. The most common mistake is to be afraid of fleas.

Some cases were when unaware owners tried to isolate their cats in another room, only supplying them with food and water regularly.

It turns out that cat flea Ctenocephalides Felis will do everything to outlive even the toughest conditions. Thus, a flea cannot live like this for a long time and multiply on humans, felines, and dogs. It will only bring a lot of unpleasant feelings. To sum up, we must admit that fleas can live on a human body for a short period.

How Do Cats Get Fleas?

Where Did My Cat Get fleas?

  • It can be infected by associating another cat or dog with fleas on its skin.
  • One of the main sources of cat fleas is emerging of grownup fleas in your garden or house.
  • Houses with carpets, fur spreading, cushions, and central heating systems provide the perfect environment for fleas.

    So when the cat lays on these surfaces with fleas, they will automatically be infected. Keeping your cat in cat care centers, too, can get fleas on them. 

    What Are The Symptoms Of Flea Infestation In Cats?



    The symptoms of flea infestation in cats can vary, but some common signs include:

    1. Scratching and biting: Fleas are known to cause intense itching in cats, which can lead to excessive scratching and biting. If you notice your cat scratching or biting their skin frequently, it may be a sign of a flea infestation.
    2. Skin irritation: Flea bites can cause redness, swelling, and irritation on your cat's skin. Check your cat's skin for any signs of irritation, such as red bumps or scabs.
    3. Hair loss: In severe cases of flea infestation, your cat may experience hair loss, particularly around the neck, tail, and back legs. This is usually due to excessive scratching and biting.
    4. Flea dirt: Flea dirt is the feces of fleas, which looks like small black specks on your cat's skin. You may notice this on your cat's fur, especially around the base of the tail, and it may be a sign that your cat has fleas.
    5. Restlessness: Cats with flea infestations may become restless and have trouble sleeping due to the constant itching and discomfort.
    6. Lethargy: In some cases, a cat with a severe flea infestation may become lethargic and lose their appetite. This is because the itching and discomfort can be overwhelming, and they may not feel like eating or playing as usual.
    7. Anemia: In rare cases, a severe flea infestation can lead to anemia in cats. This occurs when the fleas feed on your cat's blood and cause a decrease in the number of red blood cells.

    Symptoms of anemia in cats include weakness, pale gums, and lethargy. If you suspect your cat may have a flea infestation, it's important to take action quickly to prevent further symptoms and discomfort.

    What Are The Potential Health Risks Associated With Fleas On Cats?

    Cat fleas are indeed small. But their effects on pets are numerous. It can make your pet sick as a result of flea infestation. These pests may carry some harmful elements to your feline friend. Thus, making them sick and uncomfortable. Here are some common types of illnesses due to a flea infestation:

    Skin and Coat problems

    Kittens with fleas on their bodies can have this problem in their skin. It will make them scratch at the back of the neck, making the cat’s skin red. Therefore, causing wounds. It can be critical if any germ enters the body through these wounds. 

    Tapeworm

    This is an intestinal parasite due to flea infestation. The adult fleas feeding on tapeworm eggs may transmit it, causing blood loss. This illness will make the cats sick. Thus, causing weight loss, appetite problems, and sometimes diarrhea. 

    Flea Allergies

    This illness could be due to flea’s saliva, flea larvae, and flea eggs.  You may observe skin lesions, itching, and fur loss as a result of this disease. 

    Itching

    This is one of the most common and viral illnesses in pets with fleas. This is generally the first sign of flea infection. The cats will start to scratch and lick their fur most of the time because of the itching. 

    Fleas on Cats

    Kittens are more vulnerable to bug infections because they are small and weak at that age. As adult fleas suck blood from these tiny kittens, they will become ill because of blood loss. You need to know that this can kill them, too, if you do not treat the infection with the right flea control.

    Anemia

    This is one of the serious conditions that harm cats. This can occur because of a huge number of fleas biting. This is more critical when it comes to the kittens. This will make the cats weak. Thus, causing rapid breathing and high fever. Finally, the death of the cats if treatments at home do not destroy the fleas. 

    Bartonella for Fleas on Cats

    Fleas on cats can pass bacterial infections such as Bartonella, also called Bartonellosis. Felines may get this infection due to contact with the feces or flea dirt. Fleas shed these bacteria with waste materials on the body. The risky fact is that cats can carry these bacteria even a year in their body without any signs. And the latter can cause mouth and gum disease, eye inflammation, and heart disease.

    Can Indoor Cats Get Fleas?

    Yes, indoor cats can get fleas. Though indoor cats are less likely to pick up fleas than outdoor cats, they can still get fleas from other animals, such as dogs or other cats, or from flea eggs and larvae that are brought into the home on clothing or shoes. Fleas can also enter homes through windows or doors that are left open, or on rodents that may come indoors.

    Once inside, fleas can quickly spread, laying eggs on furniture, carpets, and bedding, which can hatch and continue the infestation. In fact, indoor cats may be more susceptible to fleas because they don't have the same protection against fleas as outdoor cats, such as the sun and wind which can help dry out and kill fleas.

    How Long Do Fleas On Cats Live Without A Host?

    Fleas can only survive for a short time without a host, typically between 4-14 days. However, the exact length of time can depend on various factors, such as environmental conditions, temperature, humidity, and the flea species.

    Some fleas can survive for longer periods of time without a host, while others may die within a few days. It's important to note that fleas prefer living on a host and will actively seek one out if they are left without a host for too long.

    How To Clean Your Home To Get Rid Of Fleas If Your Cat Has Been Infested?

    If your cat has been infested with fleas, it is important to clean your home thoroughly to get rid of fleas and prevent re-infestation. Here are some steps you can take:

    1. Vacuum your home thoroughly, paying special attention to areas where your cat spends time. This will help to remove fleas, eggs, and larvae from your carpets, furniture, and floors.
    2. Wash all of your cat's bedding, blankets, and toys in hot water to kill any fleas that may be living on them.
    3. Treat your cat with a flea medication that your vet recommends. This will kill any fleas that are currently on your cat and help to prevent future infestations.
    4. Use a flea spray or fogger in your home to kill fleas that may be hiding in your carpets, furniture, and other areas. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure that you use the product safely and effectively.
    5. Consider using a natural flea repellent, such as diatomaceous earth or essential oils, to help repel fleas and keep them from returning.
    6. Keep your home clean and tidy to prevent future flea infestations. Vacuum regularly, wash your cat's bedding and toys regularly, and keep your cat groomed and free from fleas.
    7. Consult with your vet if the flea infestation persists, as they may be able to recommend additional treatments or solutions to help get rid of the fleas in your home.
    8. Seal any gaps or cracks in your home's walls or foundation to prevent fleas from entering.
    9. Keep your cat away from other animals that may be carrying fleas, such as stray cats or dogs.
    10. Use a flea comb to remove any remaining fleas or eggs from your cat's fur.
    11. Consider hiring a professional pest control company to help get rid of the fleas in your home if the infestation is severe.

      Can Home Remedies Effectively Get Rid Of Fleas On Cats?

      Home remedies can be effective in getting rid of fleas on cats, but their effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of the infestation. Some common home remedies include using a flea comb to physically remove fleas, bathing the cat with a gentle shampoo that contains natural flea-repelling ingredients like lavender or peppermint oil, using a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water as a natural flea spray, and treating the cat's bedding and environment with diatomaceous earth. However, if the infestation is severe, it may be necessary to use prescription flea medications prescribed by a veterinarian.

      Is Cat Flea Medicine Really Safe?

      Flea control products are among the best sellers in most pet stores. These products can be collars, spray products, or topical solutions that you apply to the cat's neck.

      Whatever their form, the main question most cat lovers would ask is whether such cat flea medicine is safe or it does more harm than good. 

      There's no right answer when it comes to feline medicine. Like humans, they react differently to various chemicals. Some may have no problems with anti-flea collars or a topical product. But others may show symptoms of flea allergy dermatitis to such products.

      You may poison your furry friend with flea medicine, so you should be careful and observe your cat closely for a while if you decide to use these products on him.

      Additionally, you need to be careful when handling such products because they can be toxic to humans. If you have known allergies to certain chemicals, you should always check the labels.

      Can Cat Flea Drops Cure Flea Infestations?

      Some people know that they can get good results through the use of cat flea drops. This medication is available today and effective in controlling the effects of infestation by dealing with the source of the problem – the cat itself.  

      Cat's flea drops are safe to use. When you apply the drops to your pet, it prevents them from licking or ingesting the product. This can be hazardous. Many cat flea drops are available, including popular brands, such as Frontline Plus, Advantage, and Stronghold.  

      For people who do not feel comfortable applying what many believe to be toxic chemicals to the family pet, you can always try our 100% organic flea collars.

      How Do You Get Rid Of Fleas On Your Cat Instantly?

      Getting rid of fleas on your cat instantly can be challenging as there is no one single solution that works for all cats. However, the following steps may help to eliminate fleas on your cat quickly:

      1. Bathe your cat with a flea shampoo: Use a cat-specific flea shampoo to bathe your cat. Follow the instructions carefully and ensure that you lather up the shampoo well and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off.
      2. Use a flea comb: After shampooing your cat, comb your cat's fur with a flea comb. This will help to remove any remaining fleas and their eggs from your cat's fur.
      3. Apply a flea treatment: Apply a topical flea treatment to your cat's skin, following the instructions carefully. These treatments can kill fleas and their eggs instantly and can provide up to 30 days of protection.
      4. Wash your cat's bedding: Wash your cat's bedding in hot water and dry it on high heat to kill any fleas or eggs that may be present.
      5. Vacuum your home: Vacuum your home thoroughly, paying particular attention to areas where your cat spends most of their time. This includes carpets, rugs, and furniture. Vacuuming can help to remove any fleas or eggs that may be present in your home.
      6. Use a flea spray: If your cat has a severe flea infestation, you may need to use a flea spray to treat your home. Look for a spray that contains an insect growth regulator, which can help to prevent flea eggs from hatching.
      7. Consult with your veterinarian: If you have tried these steps and are still having trouble getting rid of fleas on your cat, consult with your veterinarian. They may recommend additional treatment options or medication to help eliminate the fleas.

      It's also important to continue to monitor your cat for signs of flea infestation and to take preventative measures to prevent future infestations.

      How To Prevent Fleas From Infesting Cats?

      Preventing flea infestations in cats is easier than treating them. Here are some ways to prevent fleas from infesting your cat:

      1. Use flea preventatives: There are many flea preventatives available, including topical treatments, collars, and oral medications. Talk to your vet about which preventative is best for your cat.
      2. Vacuum regularly: Vacuuming your home regularly can help remove flea eggs and larvae from your carpets and furniture.
      3. Wash bedding: Wash your cat's bedding and any other fabric items they frequently come into contact with in hot water to kill any fleas or eggs.
      4. Keep your home clean: Keeping your home clean and clutter-free can help prevent flea infestations.
      5. Treat your environment: If you have a flea infestation in your home, you may need to treat your environment with insecticides to get rid of the fleas.
      6. Check for fleas regularly: Check your cat regularly for fleas, especially if they spend time outdoors or around other animals. Look for signs of fleas, such as flea dirt (black specks that look like pepper), and use a flea comb to check for live fleas.
      7. Keep your cat indoors: Keeping your cat indoors can help prevent them from picking up fleas from other animals.
      8. Avoid contact with infested animals: If you come into contact with an animal that has fleas, make sure to thoroughly wash your hands and clothing to prevent bringing fleas into your home.
      9. Treat all pets in your household: If you have multiple pets in your household, make sure to treat all of them for fleas to prevent the infestation from spreading.
      10. Maintain good hygiene for your cat: Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing your cat, can help remove any fleas or eggs that may be on their fur.

      By taking these preventative measures, you can help keep your cat flea-free and avoid the discomfort and health issues associated with flea infestations.

      4 Tips on Home Remedies for Flea Control

      1. Always use one remedy at a time. Do not use multiple remedies.
      2. Always consult a veterinarian.
      3. Do not use these remedies if there are open wounds on your feline friend. It is better to take your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
      4. If your pet shows any sign of discomfort or its situation worsens, please contact a veterinarian. 

        Treatment Options to Getting Rid of Cat Flea Ctenocephalides Felis

        • Powders
        • Natural Anti Flea & Tick Collars
        • Aerosol sprays
        • ‘spot-on’ products

        Things You Can Do To Remove Fleas on Cats


        • Vacuum daily and remove the bag away and wash the canister with soap and water.
        • Washing pet beds, cushions, carpets, and fabrics with hot water and soap.
        • Treat all the pets in the house with suitable insecticides to kill fleas.
        • Keep walls and floors without cracks and holes.
        • Treating the house with insecticides is good to remove all the fleas on cats at all stages of their life cycle.

        Vital Things to Know About Fleas on Cats

        Before attempting to get rid of fleas on cats by yourself, it could be better to ask a vet for advice. Take your cat to the vet and ask about alternative solutions. Perhaps there are better methods of getting rid of those pesky insects as they lay eggs. An expert veterinarian can see your cat's overall health and give you proper advice on the best cat flea medicine to keep the bugs away without harming your beloved little one.

         

        Read more : 8 Home Remedies for Fleas on Cats

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