About Flea & Tick Killers for Cats
Fleas and ticks are disease-carrying pests that flourish in the summer months. Cat owners should understand the health implications and treatment options when a pet becomes infested.
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Features
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Flea and tick season is April through October. Locations with warm temperatures year 'round may have infestations outside of the traditional months.
Health Risks
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Cats with fleas may scratch and bite themselves to alleviate itching and irritation, causing open sores and loss of fur. Ticks present a greater health risk as carriers of Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and other blood-borne diseases.
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Treatment
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Attack flea and tick problems before they start with preventative treatments. Flea and tick collars are sold at veterinary offices, pet stores and discount stores. Veterinary offices can prescribe topical flea and tick prevention medications that are applied on a monthly or bimonthly basis. Once a flea infestation has been detected, oral medications kill fleas and provide symptom relief. Flea dips or baths also are available through a veterinary office.
Considerations
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Cats can carry the flea infestation into the home. Bedding should be washed, carpets thoroughly vacuumed and a room fogger may need to be used, depending on the severity of the problem. If the area outside of the home is heavily infested, use a lawn treatment.
Warnings
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Not all flea and tick medications are approved for use in very young, very old or pregnant cats.
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References
- Photo Credit André Karwath; http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Tick_male_(aka).jpg
