Treatment FAQ

how old do cats need to be for flea treatment

by Prof. Arlo Stroman Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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8-10 weeks

Can you use flea treatment on a 4 week old kitten?

The challenge in treating a flea-bitten kitten is that most readily available topical flea treatments cannot be used until a kitten is eight weeks old. Topical Flea Treatments Topical flea treatments are drops or gels that are applied at the base of your kitten's neck.

What is the best flea medicine for cats?

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. Methodology aside, it's important to stop flea infestations. In addition to the obvious skin problems they create, fleas also are vectors for tapeworms and ...

Is flea treatment safe for senior cats?

Nov 21, 2014 ·

How to get rid of fleas on a cat?

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What age can a kitten have flea treatment?

8 weeksYoung kittens can be very delicate, so most flea treatments can only be given to a kitten aged 8 weeks or more. However, some flea treatments are only suitable for kittens aged at least 12 weeks.

What flea treatment is safe for kittens?

Capstar Flea Control Tablets are safe for kittens as young as 4 weeks old and start killing fleas within 30 minutes. Available without a prescription, Capstar is the only flea control product safe for kittens as young as 4 weeks and weighing at least 2 pounds.Aug 17, 2021

How do I get rid of fleas on a 4 week old kitten?

0:221:49Kitten & Cat Care : How to Treat Newborn Kittens With FleasYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWith a mild shampoo it doesn't have to be a chemical flea shampoo any shampoo will do just lather upMoreWith a mild shampoo it doesn't have to be a chemical flea shampoo any shampoo will do just lather up let the lather sit for like five minutes rinse.

Can you put flea medicine on a 6 week old kitten?

However, veterinarians advise that kittens under the age of eight weeks not be treated with flea medication. The fleas can cause anemia in kittens, and they will cause the small kittens to scratch constantly, which can be very annoying and uncomfortable.

How do I get rid of fleas on a 7 week old kitten?

Treat Fleas With A Dish Soap BathUse comfortably warm water and a fragrance free dish liquid or a natural baby shampoo.Try to complete the entire bath in less than 2 minutes, as kittens can become panicked or chilled during this process.Wash from the neck down, avoiding the eyes, nose, ears, and mouth.More items...

Can you give a 3 week old kitten a flea bath?

Do not use flea products on newborn kittens; it's not safe as they are too young. If you see fleas on the kittens, you can bathe them using Dawn dishwashing liquid and use a small flea comb as needed to get the fleas off. Avoid antibacterial soaps.

Can I give my 4 week old kitten a bath?

Bathing too often can dry the skin, so try to avoid anything more frequent than every 4-6 weeks or so. 1 Kittens accept baths most readily so start as soon as you adopt one, as long as it's at least 4 weeks old.Oct 20, 2021

How old is a 8 week old kitten?

Eight weeks is a milestone age for kittens. They should weigh about two pounds, which means they're ready to be spayed and neutered! They're also fully weaned (you're done with bottle feeding) and look more like adult cats. It's a good time to start looking for their adoptive homes.

What is the best flea treatment for cats?

If you are looking for the safest flea treatment for cats, here are several factors that can help you and your veterinarian decide which option is best: 1 Your cat’s lifestyle: Outdoor cats are at higher risk for flea infestations, but indoor cats are also susceptible. 2 Age: Different flea preventatives have different age restrictions. 3 Health history: Your veterinarian needs to be aware of your cat’s health status and all medications and supplements that your cat is currently taking to recommend the safest type of flea preventative. 4 Breed: Coat length can influence the type of treatment. 5 Where you live: Resistance to certain types of flea preventatives is a problem in some areas. Your veterinarian will know which treatments will be the most effective.

How old is Comfortis for cats?

Comfortis is a prescription monthly chewable option that’s safe for cats 14 weeks of age and older and 4.1 pounds and up.

How long does it take for fleas to kill in cats?

Topical treatments are applied to the skin on the back of the neck (base of the skull). They will kill fleas for either one or three months, depending on which brand you choose. The site of application is important because it prevents cats from licking the treated area and making themselves sick.

How long does a flea collar last?

The Seresto collar is a safe cat flea collar that can last for up to 8 months (water exposure can shorten its length of effectiveness). It uses two active ingredients—imidacloprid and flumethrin—and is approved for cats of all weights as long as they are over 10 weeks of age. The collars work by continually releasing the flea-killing ingredients, ...

How old is a kitten when it is safe to take Cheristin?

It is safe for kittens over the age of 8 weeks and as small as 1.8 pounds. Cheristin provides protection from fleas for a full month. Advantage II kills fleas, flea eggs and flea larvae with the active ingredients imidacloprid and pyripoxyfen and can be used in cats over 8 weeks of age.

How old is a cat when it is safe to use Bravecto?

It can be used on cats over 8 weeks of age and is safe for cats 2.8 pounds and larger. Bravecto is a topical flea treatment option that uses fluralaner to kill adult fleas. 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.

How does a flea collar work?

The collars work by continually releasing the flea-killing ingredients, which can help eliminate infestations. This cat flea collar also has a quick-release feature, so pet parents do not have to worry about the collar catching on something and hurting their cat.

How to get rid of fleas in kittens?

A professional exterminator can treat your house and yard with pesticides that are safe for both humans and pets. Your kitten's bedding should be washed weekly, and the floors vacuumed after being treated to remove flea eggs. Remember to throw away the vacuum bag afterwards, or the flea eggs can hatch inside the vacuum cleaner and start the cycle over again.

How often should I clean kitten bedding?

Your kitten's bedding should be washed weekly, and the floors vacuumed after being treated to remove flea eggs. Remember to throw away the vacuum bag afterwards, or the flea eggs can hatch inside the vacuum cleaner and start the cycle over again.

How old can kittens be to use Frontline?

Frontline and Advantage are two popular brands that can be used on kittens as least eight weeks old. Revolution is a newer product that can be used in kittens as young as six weeks.

Can fleas in kittens be fatal?

If you notice any of these warning signs, let your veterinarian know right away. Flea anemia in kittens can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Can flea shampoo kill fleas?

Flea shampoos and flea combs are effective for removing adult fleas from your kitten's fur, but they do not prevent re-infestation. If your kitten is too young to use a topical flea treatment or Capstar, consult your veterinarian before using any products that claim to kill fleas.

Can fleas be treated on kittens?

Kitten Flea Treatment. i. Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images. Flea infestation is not only uncomfortable for your kitten, it can also cause severe health problems, ranging from open sores to anemia if left untreated. The challenge in treating a flea-bitten kitten is that most readily available topical flea treatments cannot be used ...

Where to apply flea drops on kittens?

Topical flea treatments are drops or gels that are applied at the base of your kitten's neck. Because topical flea medications are pesticides, it's very important to follow the manufacturer's directions carefully and only use products labeled for use on kittens.

How do flea treatments work?

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 to do if my cat has fleas?

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. Methodology aside, it's important to stop flea infestations.

How to treat an aging cat?

In addition to treating your aging cat, make sure you vacuum your house, especially carpet and furniture, and wash your cat's bedding weekly. A change in routine affects any cat, but older cats appear more slavish to habit, so don't turn their world upside down with obsessive cleaning. Be thorough, quick and efficient.

Can fleas cause itching in cats?

Your aging cat will have to deal with some itching if you use this method (technically, it's an allergic reaction to the saliva that accompanies flea bites), but he won't face potential toxicity from insecticides. Help your cat by brushing him with an unmedicated flea comb to thin the herd.

Can cats get fleas redhanded?

You may've even caught the little bug gers redhanded (so to speak) while they dined on your cat's blood. 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.

Can senior cats get fleas?

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. Pair that with your aging cat's weakened immune system and you've got the potential for a litany of health problems.

Can fleas be used on dogs?

Furthermore, don't use products formulated for dogs, as some of them contain chemicals poisonous to cats.

Why is flea prevention important for senior cats?

Fleas can pose an extra threat to senior cats because senior cats are more likely than adult cats to have a compromised immune system, and they may be more prone to severe problems from fleas.

Where to apply flea control for senior cat?

The most common place to apply topical flea control is between a cat’s shoulder blades.

What is a flea in cats?

Fleas, Defined. Fleas are miniscule reddish brown or black insects that feed on the blood of cats , dogs, other mammals and birds. The type of flea that generally afflicts cats in North America is known as Ctenocephalides felis, according to the ASPCA.

How to tell if a cat has fleas?

If you notice any of the following signs, take your cat to the vet for a proper diagnosis right away. Adult fleas. The most obvious way to determine whether fleas are playing house in your cat’s coat is the presence of actual fleas. “Fleas resemble little black seeds,” Brown says. And fleas jump; they don’t fly.

How to prevent fleas from petting cats?

Practice proper hygiene, including washing your hands after petting your cat and cleaning the litter box in order to prevent the transfer of fleas, flea eggs, pupae and tapeworms to humans and animals in your home. If your home is severely infested with fleas, consider hiring a pest exterminator. By: Robin Rockey.

How to get rid of fleas in cats?

Vacuum and steam clean carpeting in your home and car. Wash your cat’s carrier and any bedding where your cat may sleep, including your own bedding, in hot water. Talk to your vet to determine whether a “flea bomb,” fogger or powder is recommended for your home.

What does a flea look like in a cat?

Look for these pieces in your cat’s feces or in the hair underneath your cat’s tail. They resemble small grains of white rice. Fleas can cause anemia and skin problems, which can be more difficult to treat in senior cats. Fleas can cause physical discomfort.

Assuring All Dogs And Cats In The House Are On Flea Prevention

Ask the Vet: Do indoor cats really need heartworm & flea/tick protection?

I Noticed My Cat Had Fleas After Her Return From Boarding Did She Get Fleas There

Not necessarily! Pre-adult fleas can survive for up to 140 days within their protective pupa. When you or your pets are absent from home for extended periods of time these adult fleas remain in the pupae because no host is available.

Fleas And Flea Control In Cats

The most common flea found on cats and dogs is the cat flea . Occasionally, rabbit, hedgehog and other fleas may be found on cats but these are much less common.While many cats live with fleas and show minimal signs of infestation, control is advisable for several reasons including:

I Recently Treated My Five

It depends to a degree on the treatment that you used initially. I’d chat to your vet about your cat’s lifestyle risk of getting worms and therefore how often she should routinely be treated for worms.

How Often Do Cats Need Flea Prevention

The question, How often do cats need shots? arose out of the context of flea prevention. Do all cats require flea preventatives, or are they more important for outdoor cats? Many people believe that fleas are contagious and are transmitted from pet to pet.

Yes If You Live In Wooded Areas Or Areas With Springs And Summers

The seasons, or time of year, can also come into play when deciding whether or not to give your indoor cat flea medication. While fleas are alive and kicking all year round, its when the warmer months hit in North America that fleas become more active and pose more of a threat to your pets.

How To Prevent Fleas

Your cat’s warm, furry coat and nourishing blood supply are a flea’s dream home. Protect your pet with a flea barrier to prevent these tiny pests from settling in. There are a few different types:

Do indoor cats need flea treatment?

Many owners of indoor cats believe that their pets do not need flea treatment. However, veterinarians advise us to apply flea control on indoor cats, even though they never go out. According to them, cats can get fleas from other pets, people who visit us, or from us.

Can soap and water kill fleas?

Some of them believe that soap and water may solve the problem. In addition to this, less invasive treatment than topical flea control, they recommend grooming a cat with a special flea comb. These two methods might be enough to remove fleas and their eggs from a cat.

Can you overdose a cat on flea treatment?

Common signs of toxicity from flea products containing organophosphates are diarrhea, vomiting, difficulty breathing, small pupils, muscle tremor, weakness or falling over, and drooling. Organophosphate toxicity can be rapidly fatal, depending on the ingredients and dose the pet is exposed to.

Can I give my cat flea treatment twice?

While you can reapply flea treatment early in some cases, you should talk to your veterinarian to find the best and most effective flea treatment for your pet.

What happens if you flea your cat too often?

They can also lead to your cat developing a tapeworm infection if a cat were to ingest an infected flea (which can happen during grooming). And because fleas feed on blood, a severe infestation may even lead to anaemia.

Can you overdose a cat on Advantage?

The active ingredient can cause nerve damage. The cat may suffer from an accidental overdose .

What flea medicine is killing cats?

Ingredients like permethrin are commonly included in dog flea and tick treatments, which can actually kill cats .

Can I reapply flea treatment early?

If you are finding fleas on your pet even after applying your pet’s topical flea treatment, you might consider reapplying it early. However, this solution is not always recommended and may lead to an overdose in some rare cases.

How often can you give flea treatment?

Flea sprays are used directly on your dog but must be designed for animals. Never use a household flea spray on your pet. Pet flea sprays kill fleas but may need to be re-applied from as often as every few days to every few weeks.

Can cats get fleas?

Indoor cats can get fleas, usually by way of us bringing them in from outside. If it turns into a full blown infestation inside it can be a drawn out process to get rid of them. I have been fortunate in that it hasn't happened to me yet but I know that it could happen. Sep 17, 2019. #3.

Can you treat indoor cats with fleas?

If you don’t have fleas and you don’t have other animals who can go outside, you are probably okay not treating your indoor only cats for fleas. However, if they do get fleas, don’t assume a single treatment is all that’s needed. And don’t assume your single treatment didn’t work if you still have fleas.

Can cats bring fleas to vets?

If your cat visits vets fairly often for any health issues or check-ups, it's a good idea to give them flea meds, in my view. You or your kitty can certainly bring home fleas (or just one flea! that's all it takes) from a vet's office -- from the waiting room, the exam rooms, the lab area. Sep 18, 2019. #16.

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