How to Protect Cats From Fleas

Cat owners frequently are not aware that they have a flea problem until they are stricken by a sudden onslaught of itchy bites inflicted by the ravenous insects. Sometimes the only clues present are the cat scratching itself often and the flea bites that you actually sustain. Routinely treating your cat with effective topical flea preventive products will protect it from this common but unnecessary condition. Many excellent topical flea control preparations are available from your veterinarian. However, many people would rather not use powerful chemical insecticides on their pets. Fortunately for these folks, there are quite a few natural, nonchemical formula alternatives on the market today, as well.

Things You'll Need

• White sheet or piece of paper Fine-tooth cat comb Topical flea control product formulated specifically for cats Scissors Your cat's favorite treats

Instructions

1. 

   Spread a white sheet out on a flat surface. Use the fine-tooth cat comb to groom the cat's fur, making sure that you are combing completely down to the skin. This will help you to determine whether or not your cat has fleas. Some of the insects will drop from the cat onto the sheet, or even begin jumping onto you as you comb. Kill any fleas that drop or jump from the cat so that they don't infest your home.

2. 

   Look for signs of flea feces, or "flea dirt," on the sheet as you comb, especially if you're not seeing any live fleas. Flea dirt looks like very tiny specks of black dirt. If you moisten it and rub it lightly on the sheet, it will produce a reddish-brown smear.

3. Grasp the applicator containing the topical flea preventive upright and point it away from you. The tip will have a horizontal score across it. Open the applicator by snapping the tip off at the score line, or cut it with scissors.

4. 

   Part the fur on the back of the cat's neck right above its shoulder blades so that you can see the skin. Gently press the tip of the applicator to the pet's skin and squeeze the body of the applicator. Apply all of the liquid in the applicator to your cat's skin. Make sure that you don't get any of the preparation in the pet's mouth or eyes. A single dose will protect your cat from fleas for 30 days.

5. Dispose of the empty applicator by wrapping it in a few layers of old newspapers and discard the bundle in the trash. Store remaining unopened product in a cool, dry area inaccessible to pets and children.

6. 

   Give the kitty its favorite treat for having been so good.

7. Allow the liquid application to dry for a couple of hours before permitting the cat to play with you, your children or other pets.

8. Repeat the process in 30 days.

Tips & Warnings

• Remove fleas from the home environment as soon as the cat has been treated. Vacuum your home often and dispose of the bag when you're through. Furniture will need to be treated with insecticides. For severe infestations you may need to seek professional help.

• Consult your veterinarian right away if the cat shows any signs of having side effects from the treatment. Consult the veterinarian before using topical products if your cat is pregnant or nursing, ill, or very old.