How Often Should I Apply Flea Treatment to my Cats?
A Guide to Treatments
Summer is peak season for fleas. They can infect your cats and your home. So how do you prevent this?
As recommended by vets, cats should have flea treatment once per month so they can avoid fleas throughout their life.
The most common treatment is "spot on" flea treatment. These are small tubes containing a liquid treatment. Depending on the weight of your cat depends on how many tubes are applied. Usually one or two but always ensure to read the manufacturers instructions. If you are unsure, contact your local vet for advice.
You should part your cats fur at the back of their neck, and apply directly onto their skin in multiple locations. The treatment is applied to the back of the neck to avoid your cat trying to lick the treatment. Cover the area by putting your cats fur back in place.
Spot on treatment will kill 98-100% of fleas and stop any reinfestation. They will provide complete protection for your cat and your home for one month.
How Do I Check my Cat for Fleas?
One of the first and most obvious signs your cat may have fleas is constant scratching.
To check, you should part your cats fur in multiple locations around their body and inspect their skin for small black or brown grains which is an indication of flea dirt. Fleas can also be seen by eye.
If you place your cat on a white surface such as a paper towel and brush through their coat, you will be able to see signs of flea dirt if infestation has occurred.
If you find your cat has fleas, treatments can take up to 24 hours to fully kill all the fleas on your cat. You will also need to treat your home as fleas can live in carpets and on furniture. Sprays are available for home treatments.
You should check your cat regularly, particularly during the summer and throughout the year, even if they are not showing signs of itching.
If you are unsure of anything, contact your local vet for advice.
Many vets offer a "pet club" in which you can pay a monthly fee, and they will provide all the necessary flea, tick and worm treatment required, along with regular health checks and vaccinations for you cat all year round.
Note: Never use flea treatment for other animals such as a dog on your cat as these can be extremely fatal to your cat.