How do fleas and ticks impact the overall wellbeing of my cat?
Fleas and ticks are parasites that can significantly impact a cat's health. Fleas are very common and can carry parasites such as tapeworms. Both fleas and ticks feed on the blood of the pet, and can even cause flea bite anemia, where the pet's blood has been significantly depleted. Ticks can also transmit various diseases. Ensuring your pet is free of fleas and ticks helps promote a longer, healthier life.
Dr. Kelley Wallace
Catawba Heights Animal Hospital
How do cats get fleas and ticks?
Here in North Carolina, we see fleas and ticks year round, it doesn’t get cold enough for these parasites to die. Fleas and ticks are often found outdoors, and can be brought into the home by pets or humans. Indoor cats can get fleas and ticks from humans unknowingly carrying them on their clothes. Ticks can crawl in, and dogs that frequently go outside can bring parasites in on their skin.
Why is flea and tick prevention important?
Flea and tick prevention is crucial to your pet's health and happiness. Fleas and ticks can cause itchiness, skin infections, and can even transmit diseases and parasites. Severe infestations can lead to anemia by depleting the pet's blood supply.
How can a veterinarian help with treating fleas and ticks on my cat?
Veterinarians can recommend whats is best for flea and tick prevention for your specific cat. For cats, there are several options, such as Credelio, a monthly flea pill, and topical preventatives like Advantage Multi, Revolution Plus, and Brevecto Plus. Brevecto Plus is recommended as it lasts for two months instead of one, reducing the chances of missing a dose.
What are some signs and symptoms of flea and tick infestations?
Common signs of flea and tick infestations include itching, scratching, rashes, scabs, flakes, excessive grooming, hair loss, and scabbing. These are often concentrated on the back half of the pet, where fleas like to hide. Cats are great at grooming, so you may not see life fleas!
What do fleas and ticks look like?
Fleas and ticks are small black bugs. Ticks are larger and flat, about the size of a pencil eraser top, whereas fleas are much smaller, about the size of a pinhead, and they can jump.
What are some possible diseases that can be transmitted by fleas and ticks?
Fleas and ticks can transmit tapeworms and various bacterial infections.
What should I do if I find fleas and ticks on my cats?
If you find fleas and ticks on your cats, give us a call and schedule to see your veterinarian. They can recommend appropriate treatments and check for tapeworms or parasites that may have been transmitted by fleas and ticks.
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