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21 May Help! My Cat Has Fleas!
Cats that are allowed outside pick up fleas by socialising with other cats or just by walking through territory where other cats have been.
Think that your indoor only cat is safe? Think again!
Amazingly, fleas can travel inside your home by catching a ride on your clothing. Strangely, white clothing in particular is very appealing to fleas and once they have taken their taxi inside your home, they can easily transfer onto you feline friend.
It is worth noticing if you cat is scratching vigorously, because this can be an obvious sign of a flea infestation. A good trick to removing these fleas is with a flea comb. Pay particular attention to behind your felines ears and make sure that the flea comb touches your cats skin to ensure everything is properly scooped up.
If you find black, or deep brown gritty specks on the comb put these on a dampened tissue. If red seeps from them they are flea droppings, which are composed of dried blood.
Fleas lay their eggs in your cat’s fur. These eggs fall out and hatch into larvae in your cats bedding, cracks in the floor boards, in upholstery and in your carpets.
The actual larvae themselves evolve into the fleas as we know them and they can feed on your cat which gives them a perfect meal.
Many anti-flea products which include cat shampoos and flea sprays etc. There are many places where you can pick up these products like from Cat Tree UK. Or, from your local pet shop..
Make sure that you spray your felines favourite sleeping spot as well as you cat as well!
Sprays that are designed to be long lasting are the best bet for ridding your home of fleas but before using the spray, vacuum all carpeting, drapes, mattresses and upholstered furniture making sure that you vacuum underneath the furniture. Vacuum and then wash your cat’s bedding in very hot water.
Before you start, pop a mothball into the cleaner bag and when you are satisfied that you have vacuumed thoroughly seal the cleaner bag in a plastic bag and dispose of it outside.
If you are opposed to the use of chemicals, fill a shallow bowl with sudsy water and stand a safety candle (night light) just above it. Alternatively use a battery light. When it is dark, the fleas will naturally be attracted to the light and will jump towards it and land in the water!
If your lucky feline is allowed in the garden then try and keep your lawn cut and free of weeds.
The larvae of fleas love a humid environment and hate sunlight. Remove any piles of leaves or earth from your cat’s territory.
Ask your veterinarian about treatment for your cat. One of the most effective treatments is a parasiticide that is applied to a small area at the back of the neck.
Give your cat a bath once a week. If your cat simply refuses to be bathed ask your vet about alternative methods.