Fleas are among the most common parasites infesting pets of all types, and it is wise to invest in an adequate form of flea protection for your pet cat in order to save him the discomfort and potential side effects of an infestation. Given the vast number of flea treatment and prevention products on the market today, it can be difficult to select one that will work well without breaking the budget or causing your pet potential harm. In recent years, topical treatments have risen to the forefront of flea medicines for cats. Read on to learn more about this new method of flea moderation and protection.
How Topical Treatments Work
Unlike sprays and collars, which tend to make cats uncomfortable, topical treatments are designed to disturb your cat's daily life as little as possible. A topical treatment can be administered periodically in a very small dose, typically just a few drops of oil-based solution placed directly on the skin beneath the shoulder blades. The medicine itself is absorbed into your pet's skin and travels throughout his body, offering full protection against fleas and other parasites.
Benefits of Topical Treatments
Topical treatments are superior in many ways to insecticide treatments of years past. Insecticides tend to cause adverse effects in the host pet and oftentimes lost effectiveness in a relatively short period of time as parasites developed resistance. Topical treatments of today, on the other hand, are designed to disrupt the growth cycle or reproduction of fleas. This effectively eliminates any parasites without allowing them to develop a resistance to the treatment. Additionally, these treatments target parasites specifically and pose no harm to your pet or to you.
How to Administer a Topical Treatment
Before you begin a topical treatment program to control for fleas, read the instructions for dosage carefully. The quantity of medicine necessary varies depending upon your cat's size and weight. It may be helpful or even necessary to weigh your cat before beginning the treatment. This will help to ensure that you provide an adequate dose of medicine, without which your pet will not be fully protected.
Most topical flea treatments are available as paste-like solutions. Holding your pet in your lap and petting him gently, part the fur between his shoulder blades and spread the recommended dosage of flea treatment onto his skin directly. Ensure that he will not be able to lick the area, otherwise he may remove the medicine from his skin before it takes effect.
Topical treatments are easy to administer, requiring just a minute once every week or two. They are comfortable for your pet and are highly effective. Additionally, they are inexpensive and are available without a veterinary prescription. Simply visit your local pet store for additional information about topical flea treatment products and selection. If you have any questions or concerns for your cat specifically, do not hesitate to consult with a veterinarian before or during the treatment program.