Oral Flea Treatment for Cats
Fleas are a nuisance to cats, especially those in hot and humid climates. In fact, one of the most common allergies in cats is to flea bites. The flea saliva often creates severe skin irritation and discomfort. Garlic and other natural oral supplements have helped some cats to keep fleas at bay.
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Flea Profile
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As adults, these jumping wingless insects survive on blood alone and can lay as many as 2,000 eggs in a lifetime of 10 months. It only takes about a week for flea eggs to hatch. That quick turnaround makes it hard to control flea infestation. They will quickly multiply and take over not only your cat's body, but also your house, especially where there's carpeting and clothing.
Flea Damage
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In addition to causing severe skin irritation and obsessive scratching, fleas give your cats worms. Their incessant blood sucking may also lead to anemia, a condition created when there are insufficient red blood cells to carry oxygen through the body. Both worms and anemia can lead to other serious health problems for your cat.
But your family is also at risk. Fleas also bite people and may transfer germs to your bloodstream. For instance, the bubonic plague is transmitted by flea bites.
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Brewer's Yeast
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There's no firm scientific evidence that brewer's yeast repels fleas. In fact, in her book "Akita -- Treasure of Japan Volume II," Barbara Bouyet describes two studies involving the use of brewer's yeast to deter fleas. One by Dr. Robert Bradley at the University of Florida found that the treatment was effective. Another conducted at the University of California at Davis concluded that brewer's yeast had no negative effect on fleas.
Yet, you'll find cat owners who swear by it. Just in case your cat has the type of fleas Dr. Bradley was able to repel with brewer's yeast, it's worth a try. But keep in mind that brewer's yeast is an allergen to some pets. You should check with your vet first.
Vitamins and Minerals
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In the May 2000 issue of "Better Nutrition," authors Gregory and Mary Tilford write about repelling fleas with trace minerals, zinc and B-complex. They say that pets supplemented with them "seem to have fewer problems with fleas." They suggest you buy vitamin-mineral supplements for pets available at the health food store and some veterinary clinics. This will save you from having to calculate the right dosage for your pet's weight.
Herbs
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Gregory and Mary Tilford say that herbs that improve digestion and liver function also work to repel fleas. They recommend adding grated fresh burdock root to your cat's food. You can also mix a small amount of dandelion root in powder form with the food.
Commercial Formulas
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A talk with your vet or an online search will turn you towards several oral flea treatments widely sold. These flea-control treatments may be in liquid or tablet form and work by killing flea eggs and larvae. One advantage these commercial formulas offer is that you only have to give them to your cat once a month.
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References
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- Photo Credit scratching cat image by Lucid_Exposure from Fotolia.com
