How do I know if my cat has fleas?
Cats that have fleas will itch, lick and be uncomfortable. Some cats may have rashes and scabbing due to self-trauma (licking and scratching). Large flea infestations may have visible flea dirt in the fur. Flea dirt is the flea’s feces deposited in the fur or on the skin. Most times the cats with flea infestations may go outside, however, indoor cats can have fleas as well.
Do fleas harm cats?
Yes, fleas can harm cats. Fleas can be a vector of transmission of parasites, bacteria and viruses; the most common parasite being the tapeworm. Tapeworm is a type of internal parasite that lives in the intestines of your cat. Another concern of fleas is flea allergy dermatitis. Flea allergy dermatitis is a rash due to your cat’s allergy due to the flea.
Why is treating and preventing fleas so important?
Cats can become terribly sick if the flea infestation is not treated. Besides the itching, lick and be uncomfortable, cats with large infestations can lose weight and become anemic (low red blood cell count due to fleas feed on the cat’s blood). Some cats may have rashes, flea allergy dermatitis and scabbing due to self-trauma (licking and scratching). Fleas can be a vector of transmission of parasites, bacteria and viruses; the most common parasite being a tapeworm. Fleas from your cat will also bite other members of the household (people, other pets, etc.).
What are some simple steps for treating fleas in your senior cat?
There are many good topical spot-on products for the treatment of fleas including Bravecto, Revolution, and Advantage Multi. Year-round, flea and tick prevention is the best and simplest way to prevent fleas and tick.
What diseases are associated with ticks?
Ticks can transmit many serious diseases, both to animals and humans. Even just one tick bite can cause an infection, so be sure to have your pet checked regularly for ticks and tick‐borne diseases. Lyme disease is one of the diseases most commonly transmitted by ticks. It can lead to lameness by infecting your pet’s tissues and inflaming the joints, kidney damage, and even nervous system and heart disease. Other diseases transmitted by ticks include Ehrlichia, Babesia, Anaplasma, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, viral meningitis/encephalitis, and more. In your pet’s routine check-up, we screen for most of these diseases, we check for signs of ticks, and we discuss with you the information you need to know about ticks in detail. Our staff know how to assess your pet for signs of ticks and tick‐borne diseases. We would be happy to answer any questions you have about ticks and tick control.
