How to treat cat fleas:

Fleas and ticks are common pests that can cause serious health problems for your pets. These tiny insects can cause a variety of issues including skin irritation, anaemia, and even serious diseases such as Lyme disease. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to understand if indoor cats can get fleas and the risks associated with fleas and ticks to take the necessary precautions to protect your pets.

3 Most Common Questions Our Vets Get Asked About Fleas

Can indoor cats get fleas?

You might think to yourself ‘My cats don’t go out how have they got fleas?’ and although indoor cats tend to be at lower risk of getting fleas and ticks, they can still get them.

Where do cats get fleas from?

Fleas can be brought into your home on other animals and even inanimate objects. They can be brought in by pets, rodents, or even on your clothes and shoes.

Do indoor cats need flea treatment?

It is always better to prevent a flea infestation on your pet than it is to treat it. You should protect your cat with a flea treatment, such as an injection or a spot-on treatment, which can be prescribed to you by your vet. These treatments stop fleas from setting up camp on your pet and help stop you from getting cat fleas in-house.

What are fleas and ticks?

Fleas are small, wingless insects that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. They are a common problem for pets, particularly cats and dogs. Fleas can jump up to 150 times their own body length, making them incredibly difficult to catch. They can also survive for long periods of time without a host, which means that they can infest your home and become a persistent problem.

Ticks are also parasites that feed on the blood of mammals and birds. Unlike fleas, ticks do not jump, but they will climb onto a host if they come into contact with them. Once on the host, they will attach themselves and feed for several days before dropping off. Ticks are known carriers of a variety of diseases, including Lyme disease, which can be fatal if left untreated.

How to prevent fleas and ticks?

Prevention is key when it comes to flea and tick infestations. Here are some tips to keep your pets safe:

1. Regular grooming: Regular grooming, including brushing and bathing, can help to remove fleas and ticks before they have a chance to infest your pet.
2. Use flea and tick prevention products: There are a variety of products on the market that can help prevent fleas and ticks, including topical treatments, collars, and oral medications. Talk to your vet (HYPERLINK TO PITC) to determine which product is best for your pet.
3. Keep your home clean: Fleas can lay eggs in carpets, bedding, and upholstery, so it’s important to keep your home clean and vacuum regularly. Wash your pet’s bedding frequently and consider using a flea spray on carpets and furniture.
4. Avoid areas where ticks are prevalent: Ticks are often found in wooded areas and tall grass, so it’s important to avoid these areas when walking your pet. Stick to paved or gravel paths whenever possible.
5. Check your pet regularly: Check your pet for fleas and ticks regularly, especially if they have been in areas where they are likely to pick up these pests.

How to know if a cat has fleas

If you notice your cat displaying any of the following cat fleas symptoms, then you should speak to one of our vets to decide on the best plan of action:

• Scratching
• Hair loss in patches
• Skin irritation
• Excessively grooming themselves
• Black specks in their fur or on bedding
• Lethargic
• Pale gums

Here is a helpful video for how to check if your cat has fleas:

And here is how to check if your dog has fleas:

What to do if your pet has fleas or ticks

If you suspect that your pet has fleas or ticks, it’s important to act quickly to prevent the infestation from spreading. Here’s what you should do:

1. Consult with a vet: a vet can recommend the best course of treatment for your pet, including prescription medication and flea/tick prevention products.
2. Treat your home: As mentioned earlier, fleas can lay eggs in your home, so it’s important to treat your home to prevent a re-infestation. Consider hiring a professional exterminator to eliminate fleas and ticks from your home.
3. Clean your pet’s belongings: Wash your pet’s bedding, toys, and other belongings in hot water to kill any fleas or ticks that may be living there.
4. Monitor your pet: Keep an eye on your pet for any signs of illness or discomfort, as fleas and ticks can transmit diseases.

There are several products available on the market that can help prevent fleas and ticks. Some of the most common options include:

1. Topical treatments: These are liquid medications that are applied directly to your pet’s skin. They work by killing fleas and ticks on contact and preventing new infestations from taking hold.
2. Oral medications: These are pills that your pet takes orally. They work by killing fleas and ticks from the inside out.
3. Flea and tick collars: These collars are infused with insecticides that repel fleas and ticks. They are effective for up to several months, depending on the brand.
4. Shampoos and sprays: These products are applied directly to your pet’s fur and can help kill fleas and ticks on contact.

It’s important to talk to one of our vets before using any of these products on your pet. They can help you determine which product is best for your pet’s individual needs.

In addition to using preventative products, it’s also important to check your pet for fleas and ticks regularly. This is especially important if your pet spends a lot of time outside or in wooded areas. To check for fleas, part your pet’s fur and look for small, dark insects moving around. To check for ticks, run your hands over your pet’s fur and feel for small bumps. If you find any fleas or ticks, remove them immediately and dispose of them properly. If you notice they still have fleas despite the cat having treatment.

Conclusion

Flea and tick infestations are not only uncomfortable for your pet, but they can also lead to serious health problems. Fleas can cause skin irritation, anaemia, and even tapeworm infections. Ticks, on the other hand, can transmit serious diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis.

It’s important to note that prevention is the best approach when it comes to fleas and ticks. Once an infestation has taken hold, it can be difficult and time-consuming to get rid of. So, it’s essential to take preventative measures to protect your pet and your home.

Fleas and ticks can be a serious problem for pets, but with the right precautions and treatment, they can be easily prevented and treated. Remember to consult with your veterinarian about the best prevention products for your pet and keep your home clean and free of pests. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your pet stays healthy and happy.

We offer flea treatment services at both Paws in the City vets in Ealing and Paws in the City vets in Greenford. We recommend that you keep on top of your pets’ preventative treatment to ensure fleas and ticks don’t make their way onto your pets or into your home.