How to Treat Flea Allergies in Cats

If your cat is constantly scratching there's a good chance he's got fleas. Those pesky little parasites can be difficult to get rid of and they can be a real problem for you and your pet. Cats can be allergic to the saliva of fleas which can cause intense itching. As a result of the cat's constant scratching and biting, the cat may develop hot spots, which are areas where hair loss occurs and the skin becomes inflamed. These areas may develop crust-like scabs. The hair may thin in certain areas such as near the base of the tail or there may be generalized hair loss. Fleas can make your pet miserable and a flea allergy just intensifies the problem. Follow the steps below to relieve flea allergies in cats.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Flea Shampoo
• Flea Comb
• Brush made for Cats
• Garlic and Brewer's Yeast Supplement
• Vitamin E oil
• Flea Spray
• Hydro-cortisone Spray or Lotion

How to Treat Flea Allergies in Cats

1. Shampoo your pet thoroughly with a flea shampoo to remove fleas. Use a herbal flea shampoo, if you prefer. In order to effectively treat flea allergies the fleas must be eliminated.
2. Comb through your cat's fur with a flea comb at least once a week to keep your cat flea-free.
3. Brush your cat weekly. Brushing stimulates blood flow thereby aiding hair growth. If your pet has any inflammed skin or scabs, avoid brushing until the skin has healed completely.
4. Clean your cat's bedding and spray furniture with a flea spray in areas where your pet tends to spend a lot of time. Vacuum carpets thoroughly. Wash sheets, blankets and other items in hot water.
5. Treat other pets in the household for fleas in order to prevent reinfestation.
6. Use Vitamin E oil or pure virgin olive oil on hot spots to help heal inflammed skin. Rub a little of the oil directly onto the affected skin once or twice daily.
7. Purchase an over-the-counter Hydro-cortisone spray or lotion with a 1 percent solution to treat inflamed skin caused by flea allergies to speed healing.
8. Give your cat a Garlic and Brewer's Yeast supplement. You can purchase the tablets at a local pet store or pet pharmacy. Cats love the taste, but fleas don't like the taste of garlic. This will make your pet less appetizing to the fleas. A Garlic and Brewer's Yeast supplement also helps to promote healthy skin and coat.