There are many different types of flea treatment for cats, some more effective than others. The exact treatment that will work best for you and your pet depends upon a number of factors, including your pet's overall health, the severity of his flea problem, and your willingness to complete the treatment and budget. Read on for an overview of the best flea treatments for cats.
Medicated Shampoos
In most cases, a medicated, prescription shampoo is the best way of treating your pet's flea problems. These shampoos are formulated with an insecticide ingredient that kills or paralyzes the fleas. After having your pet's parasites diagnosed by the veterinarian, he will give you a prescription for one of several insecticide shampoos based upon your cat and his condition. Certain insecticides are not recommended for use in cats, and any of these shampoos may prove damaging to you or your pet if used incorrectly. As a result, it is important that you follow the administration directions carefully and that you use the proper safety equipment, including gloves and masks, if required.
Shampoo treatments to eliminate fleas typically last for a period of up to a month and involve 3 or more individual baths. If your pet does not respond well to baths, there are powdered treatments and other dry shampoos that do not require water.
Flea Collars
For pets that cannot otherwise use insecticide-based shampoos, flea collars are another excellent treatment option. These collars are placed on your cat's neck, where he cannot access them, and provide a mild insecticide that can help to kill the fleas on his body. Flea collars are also one of the best ways of preventing your cat from developing a flea problem in the first place.
Limiting Contact
If you have more than one pet, consider separating them if one develops a flea problem. This will help to ensure that the others do not develop an infestation as well. Unfortunately, by the time one pet contracts fleas, the others may already have them too. In this case, it is crucial that you make sure that all of your pets are free of fleas so that the infestation does not begin again.
Cats oftentimes pick up fleas when they spend time outdoors or with other animals. Limiting your pet's contact with the outdoors and wild or neighborhood animals can help to reduce the likelihood that he will develop a flea problem.
Flea collars and other at-home treatments are available at pet stores without a prescription. These options tend to be cheaper than prescription shampoos, which require a visit to the veterinarian and additional expenses. If your pet displays any of the signs of a flea infestation, including excessive scratching, skin irritation or redness, begin by examining him closely. You may be able to detect fleas on him by sight. If not, or if you have any doubts about your own diagnosis, take him to a veterinarian for further inspection.