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Finding Safe Cat Insect Repellents

Cats > Health Care > Finding Safe Cat Insect Repellents

also see Dog Bug

When choosing a cat insect repellent, it is important to read and follow all label directions. General purpose insect sprays or products formulated for dogs can harm your cat.

The most common cat bug complaint is, of course, the flea. Fleas can cause intense itching and hair loss, and they also contribute to the spread of tapeworms.

Popular Cat Flea Products

Oral medications such as Program, an insect growth regulator;
Topical flea adulticides such as Frontline, Advantage and Revolution;
Flea collars, sprays and dusts.
Some products also help to control cat tick populations, mites and internal parasites.

Insecticide Dangers

When treating fleas, be sure to treat indoor and outdoor living areas. When choosing an insecticide for this purpose, avoid any that contain permethrin. Permethrin is a commonly used insecticide, and it is very toxic to cats.

Cats are also be very sensitive to organophosphate insecticides. Some chemicals to avoid include:

Permethrin
Phosmet
Diazinon

Used around your cat, wasp, hornet and ant sprays can be lethal. If you are battling these insects in and around your yard and garden, consider some natural alternatives. Products that contain borax, mint oil or sodium laurel sulfate will kill these pests while protecting your pet.

Also consider wasp traps, artificial wasp nests and other forms of non-toxic control.

Read and follow labels to keep your cat, your yard and your house bug-free and healthy.

also see Choosing the Best Cat Flea Remedy

also see A Guide to Natural Cat Flea Treatment

also see 9 Effective Flea Control Methods

also see Why Cat Flea Powder Has Fallen Into Disuse

also see An Overview of Flea Treatments for Kittens

also see Ear Mites