Are there any flea treatments that are safe for senior cats?
Commercial flea treatments may be harmful to senior cats. Dealing with cat fleas is rarely easy, but it’s especially hard with senior cats. Commercial treatments usually include toxic chemicals that, even under ideal circumstances, have potential side effects.
What’s the best way to treat a cat for fleas?
Flea treatments for cats. Historically, the most effective approach to flea control was a three-step method: treatment of the yard, the house and the cat. The newer flea and tick control products, however, are so effective that treatment of the premises is rarely necessary, especially if the cat resides exclusively indoors.
Is it safe to use flea treatment on dogs?
Furthermore, don’t use products formulated for dogs, as some of them contain chemicals poisonous to cats. Your vet can prescribe safer flea treatment products than those that line the shelves of most supermarkets and pet stores.
How often should I de flea my Dog and Cat?
De-flea all of your cats, dogs and rabbits as regularly as your vet recommends (depends on which flea product you’re using). De-flea your home once a year. Keep your home clean by vacuuming regularly.
How old does a cat have to be to get flea treatment?
This topical flea treatment will provide your cat with three months of protection. It should only be used on cats that are older than 6 months and weigh more than 2.6 pounds. If you are worried about exposing other members of the household to flea medications, products that are given orally are a good choice.
When to get rid of fleas in the House?
Not every medication works for every pet. Once the cat is flea free, it’s time to treat the house. Flea eggs can lay dormant in carpets or furniture for months, waiting for the opportunity to hop back on your cat or irritate the human occupants of your home until then.
Is it safe to give a dog flea treatment?
Many flea treatments for dogs are toxic for cats. Ingredients like permethrin are commonly included in dog flea and tick treatments, which can actually kill cats. Always follow the instructions on the product’s label with regards to dosing amounts and frequency unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian.
What’s the best way to get rid of fleas in cats?
Be thorough, quick and efficient. Alternative flea treatments include peppering your cat’s food with brewer’s yeast to make his blood unpalatable, or using citronella, rosemary and wormwood scents to drive away the fleas.
Why are fleas bad for an older cat?
Often, older cats lose their sense of smell, reducing their appetite and, by extension, their overall health. Aging cats have weaker immune systems, which means the poisons in most products that kill fleas can also harm them.
How long can fleas survive in the House?
Fleas and their eggs can survive in the house for up to a year. Your vet will be able to recommend a suitable product and when to use it. Fleas can pass worms to cats. Deworm your cat regularly with a product that covers them against tapeworms, especially if they have had fleas. Your vet will be able to recommend a suitable product.
How long does it take to get rid of fleas in cats?
Most work by lacing your cat’s blood with a chemical that, once ingested by adult fleas, prevents their eggs from developing. As fleas age and die—within two months, usually—no new fleas are around to continue the infestation.
Often, older cats lose their sense of smell, reducing their appetite and, by extension, their overall health. Aging cats have weaker immune systems, which means the poisons in most products that kill fleas can also harm them.
When to start flea control on an older cat?
It’s tempting to start flea treatments immediately, but talk to a vet first. Aging cats sometimes develop subtle chronic health issues that complicate treatments. Often, older cats lose their sense of smell, reducing their appetite and, by extension, their overall health.
What happens to older cats as they age?
That process will only continue and become more noticeable as he ages. Older cats frequently develop arthritis in their joints, making it harder to jump up on the back of the couch, climb the cat condo or get into and out of the litterbox.
What happens when a senior cat gets confused?
You’ve probably already noticed an increase in catnaps, another indication that your cat is getting a little older. Like most senior animals, aging cats can develop dementia, and from this point on, your cat is at increased risk. It is harder for him to learn new things and adjust to change now, and he may get confused more easily.
What’s the best flea and tick treatment for cats?
In addition to being an effective flea, tick, and lice treatment for your cat (just spritz it on like dry shampoo), it’s an effective ally for pet owners struggling with a flea infestation in their household. Since it’s a spray, Bayer Advantage can be used to kill fleas in bedding, upholstery and even the cracks between cabinets.
Is it safe to give my cat pills for fleas?
Your vet can prescribe safer flea treatment products than those that line the shelves of most supermarkets and pet stores. Newer products, mostly pills, are much less toxic.
Commercial flea treatments may be harmful to senior cats. Dealing with cat fleas is rarely easy, but it’s especially hard with senior cats. Commercial treatments usually include toxic chemicals that, even under ideal circumstances, have potential side effects.
Is it safe to give my 15 year old cat Frontline Plus?
I recently found a couple of fleas on my 15-year old indoor cat (who has never had fleas before this) after taking him to the vet. The vet has recommended one dose of Frontline Plus. Is this product really safe for old cats? Submitted:14 years ago. Category: Cat Show More Show Less Ask Your Own Cat Question Share this conversation
Most work by lacing your cat’s blood with a chemical that, once ingested by adult fleas, prevents their eggs from developing. As fleas age and die—within two months, usually—no new fleas are around to continue the infestation.
What can I put on my Cats neck to kill fleas?
Simply applying the product to your cat’s neck kills fleas upon contact, without requiring them to bite the skin. It’s also fragrance-free, waterproof and kills larvae and flea eggs as well as adults. While the product is on the expensive side, customers say it’s worth it—and much cheaper than a trip to the vet.