How to Apply Flea And Tick Preventative On A Cat

Keeping a cat free of fleas and ticks is critical to your pet's health, and your own sanity. Fleas and ticks can cause health problems including worms, anemia and chronic skin problems.Cats can be more difficult to treat for fleas than other pets, as the process is going to involve liquid, but applying topical flea and tick treatments is an essential part of keeping a cat from getting infested.

Things You'll Need

• Topical flea treatment
• Cat (over the age of 12 weeks)
• Towel
• Rubber gloves

Instructions

Apply Topical Flea and Tick Treatment

1. 

   Gather all of the supplies you will need. Everything needs to be within reach so you won't have to stop once the process is started.

2. 

   Calmly place the cat on a smooth table or towel. Wrap the cat in a towel if it helps to keep it still. Try not to make a big production of what is about to happen; it is not a big deal. If you act matter-of-fact about the process, the pet will be more accepting of the treatment.

3. 

   Open the flea and tick treatment applicator. Don't open the applicator early as spillage may occur, and the contents will have to be cleaned up immediately.

4. 

   With one hand, back lift some of the cat's fur between the shoulder blades so that you can see skin. If the cat starts to squirm, use one hand to scruff the cat and the other to apply the topical flea preventative.

5. 

   Slowly apply the topical flea and tick treatment until the applicator is completely empty. Don't try to dump the entire dose at once; take your time and dab it on in the same spot.

6. 

   Brush the hair back in the direction of growth to cover the treated area. This should prevent the cat from rubbing the treated area on anything.

Tips & Warnings

• Use high quality topical flea and tick treatment to ensure proper dosage and strength.

• Two people may be needed to properly administer the flea medication to a cat.

• Never use flea and tick treatments of any kind on kittens under 12 weeks old as severe illness or death could occur.

• Never use topical flea and tick treatments on a pregnant or nursing queen.

• Check the treated area in the days that follow the treatment for signs of allergic reaction in all cats.

• Avoid treating the cat while in your lap as spillage--or an angry cat's claws--can cause a real mess.