Kittens are extra sensitive so not all flea treatments are safe to use on baby cats. Revolution Plus is safe for kittens eight weeks and older and contains a small amount of an alcohol-based liquid. This makes application easy and avoids making a mess all over your tiny kitten.
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Are there any restrictions on flea treatment for kittens?
Learn how to apply flea treatment to your cats and dogs including where, when, and why. ... While minimum age and weight vary by product, new puppies should be at least 7-10 weeks old and 3-5 pounds before using a topical flea preventative. ... Just like applying flea treatment to dogs, there are a few ways to properly apply topical flea ...
Do flea treatments work on older cats?
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. Aging cats have weaker immune systems, which means the poisons in most products that kill fleas can also harm them.
What is the best flea treatment for a 14 week old kitten?
Jul 24, 2018 · The cat flea can carry the larval stage of the tapeworm Dipylidium caninum and cats become infected by eating (ingesting) fleas during grooming. Fleas have the potential to transmit other infectious agents between cats. Adult fleas feed on cat blood; in young kittens, this can cause weakness, anaemia and death.
What should I do if my cat is allergic to flea medicine?
How old can a cat be for flea treatment?
At what age can you use topical flea treatment on kittens?
Once kittens are 8-10 weeks and over 1.5-2 pounds, they can safely receive appropriate topical flea treatments. These products not only kill fleas on your kitten but can prevent new fleas from hitching a ride on your pet.Apr 7, 2020
What happens if I give my cat flea treatment too early?
How old does a cat have to be to use flea and tick shampoo?
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.
Can I use revolution on my 6 week old kitten?
Can I give my cat flea treatment a week early?
Can I reapply Frontline Plus early?
Can I give my cat frontline plus twice in one month?
Do indoor cats need flea treatment?
Can Frontline be used on kittens?
Can fleas live in human hair?
Is flea treatment safe 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: Your cat’s lifestyle: Outdoor cats are at higher risk for flea infestations, but indoor cats are also susceptible. Age: Different flea preventatives have different age restrictions.
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.
Do flea collars work for cats?
Flea Collars for Cats. Flea collars have been staple flea treatments for decades, but older collars were not very effective. However, the newer flea collars, like Seresto, have proven to be reliable flea prevention options—some even protect against ticks.
Is Seresto a good flea collar?
Flea collars have been staple flea treatments for decades, but older collars were not very effective. However, the newer flea collars, like Seresto, have proven to be reliable flea prevention options—some even protect against ticks.
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 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.
Can fleas be toxic to cats?
And many flea treatments that are made for dogs can actually be extremely toxic to cats, so it is important to find one that is labeled for cats. Here’s how you can find a safe flea treatment for the cats in your home.
Can flea treatments be used on cats?
There is a vast array of flea treatments available from vets, pet shops and supermarkets for use in and on cats. It may not be obvious, but these products vary markedly in their compositions, mode of action, effectiveness and safety. Many older products contain products that may be less effective or less safe (for the cat or the environment).
Can you use flea powder on cats?
Generally, flea powders are only active for as long as they remain on the coat and are not a good choice for treatment. International Cat Care does not recommend the use of flea powders as there are safer and more effective products available.
How to get rid of fleas in house?
Frequent vacuum cleaning will help to reduce, but not eliminate, fleas in a house. Vacuum bags should be immediately and carefully disposed of. Anything heavily infested, such as bedding, should be disposed of. Treatments can then be used to prevent re-infestation in a number of ways: 1 Treat all the household pets with an insecticide to kill the adult fleas on them. Only ever use products specifically licensed for the treatment of cats, as some of the dog products can be highly toxic to cats (see later). 2 Treat the house to eradicate fleas at all other stages of their development. Treatment of the whole house is essential, including soft furnishings, carpet pile, gaps between floorboards and other difficult to reach areas. Vacuum clean first and then use an appropriate flea insecticide to kill the immature stages. 3 Cocoons (or pupae) are very resistant to treatment, and therefore repeated treatments of both animals and the household may be needed to completely eliminate all fleas from a home. 4 Products with insect development inhibitors may be used on pets to help prevent immature fleas from maturing or reproducing. For these to be effective all animals in the household must be treated. Some environmental products also target developing fleas in this way.
Why are fleas important?
Fleas are important in the transmission of ‘cat scratch disease’ between cats and to humans. This is an infection with the bacterium Bartonella hensellae and is spread when fleas feed on blood. Some dogs and cats develop an allergy to flea bites, which causes them to scratch excessively or develop skin disease.
Why do dogs scratch their feet?
Some dogs and cats develop an allergy to flea bites, which causes them to scratch excessively or develop skin disease. Cat fleas can cause itchy bites on sensitive humans, typically around the ankles . .
Can fleas bite humans?
Cat fleas can cause itchy bites on sensitive humans, typically around the ankles . . Using modern treatments it is now possible to control cat fleas very effectively, but where the fleas are very common this may require considerable effort.
How to tell if a cat has fleas?
The best way to demonstrate the presence of fleas is often to comb the cat meticulously with a fine-toothed ‘flea comb’.
Can senior cats get fleas?
Even if your senior cat never ventures outside, he or she might still be susceptible to fleas. Dogs or other animals that come into contact with your cat inside the house can transmit fleas. Of course, fleas can hop aboard your cat if he has access to a patio, balcony or window screen that’s exposed to the outdoors.
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.
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.
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.
Can fleas cause anemia in cats?
Fleas can cause anemia and skin problems, which can be more difficult to treat in senior cats. Fleas can cause physical discomfort. “Fleas can negatively affect your cat’s level of comfort,” Brown says. “Fleas feed on blood, and flea bites can be itchy and uncomfortable for your cat.”.
Can fleas hurt cats?
Fleas can cause physical discomfort. “Fleas can negatively affect your cat’s level of comfort,” Brown says. “Fleas feed on blood, and flea bites can be itchy and uncomfortable for your cat.”.
Can fleas bite people?
Fleas can bite people, but “the type of flea that infests cats doesn’t necessarily infest people,” Brown says. The appearance of small itchy red bumps on your ankles is an indicator that fleas are present in your home.
How old can kittens take flea medicine?
Several topical medications like selamectin and fipronil are only safe to use on kittens older than 8 weeks, according to VetInfo.
Can you use flea cream on kittens?
Topical flea products are only safe to use in healthy kittens and not those who are ill or underweight for their age and size. Your vet can determine if a topical flea product will be safe for your furry friend. She can also prescribe a product to use on him that is considered safe for your little one's age and weight.
How long does flea spray last on kittens?
Other products like topical flea-control products like sprays and flea shampoos are safe to use on kittens less than 5 pounds, but usually over 8 to 12 weeks old. Use these as directed by the manufacturer.
Where is Susan Paretts?
Her articles, short stories and reviews have appeared on City National Bank's website and on The Noseprint. Paretts holds a Master of Professional Writing from the University of Southern California.
Is flea control safe for dogs?
Insecticides for flea control should be safe both for pet dogs, cats, and humans , as long as the manufacturer's instructions are carefully followed. It is important to avoid combining insecticides with similar modes of action.
Do fleas live on cats?
Adult fleas live on animals and feed on blood. A single adult flea consumes many times its weight in blood over its lifetime. If a kitten, or a debilitated or older cat, has a lot of fleas, the blood loss can be severe, resulting in anemia. The flea acts as the intermediate host for one species of tapeworm ( Dipylidium caninum ).
What is the most common flea in cats?
The most common flea found on cats and dogs is the cat flea ( Ctenocephalides felis ), although any species of fleas, including fleas from rabbits, squirrels, or other wildlife, can be found on cats.
How long does it take for a flea to lay eggs?
Two days after eating a blood meal from the host, the female flea begins to lay eggs. Under ideal conditions, the flea can complete its entire life cycle in as little as two weeks; in adverse conditions, the cycle can take as much as a year.
Does flea shampoo kill fleas?
This is particularly true of flea shampoos and powders; they kill fleas present on your cat at the time of application but have little lasting effect; the following day the cat may again have fleas. Newer products with excellent residual activity are available from your veterinarian.
Do flea collars work?
Flea collars may seem convenient but most do not work well (the exception is flea collars that contain an IGR) and are not generally recommended. Flea collars, especially ones with a strong pesticide smell, may be harmful to some cats, or may cause a skin reaction or rash.
Where to use flea spray?
Sprays for use in the house should be used in places where the flea eggs, larvae, and pupae are likely to be. It is recommended that you treat the entire household first and then concentrate on the hot spots - your cat's favorite napping spots - such as soft furniture, beds, and carpets.
Can you give a cat flea treatment?
If you give a flea treatment to a cat through the wrong delivery method, it can be dangerous, so you should always follow the package recommendations for how to administer a product. A Warning About Flea Collars. Flea collars can be dangerous to cats and the people who live with them.
What is the best flea treatment for cats?
Flea treatments for cats may come as shampoos, dips, sprays, bombs, powders, spot-ons, orals, collars, combs, and even injections. Some delivery methods are only appropriate for killing live fleas while others will help prevent a flea from being able to reproduce.
What does it mean when a cat has fleas?
Cats that have fleas are often very itchy and may have hair loss, skin redness, and even scabs. The hair loss is often most prevalent at the base of the tail but can occur anywhere. Flea dirt, which is the black flea feces, can be seen in the fur.
Can cats get fleas?
Fleas are not only a nuisance but they can also transmit serious diseases to your cats. Thankfully, various flea preventatives and treatments are available to help limit your cat’s chances of attracting and harboring these external parasites. However, they aren’t all created equally. Some flea treatments aren’t even effective and worse yet, ...
Does Revolution Plus kill ticks?
With not only safe and effective fle a killing power, Revolution plus also combats ticks, heartworms, ear mites, and intestinal parasites . This makes it a top choice for cat owners who want to protect their cats from as many parasites as possible.
How long does it take for Comfortis to kill fleas?
Does not protect against any other parasites. Flea prevention for up to one month in cats and kittens 14 weeks and older can be found in the chewable tablet option called Comfortis. This tablet works very quickly to kill fleas in as few as 30 minutes and can be crushed and mixed in your cat’s wet food if necessary.
Is flea shampoo safe for cats?
While you may be thinking that this isn’t a flea shampoo, the truth is that shampoos designed to kill fleas can be very dangerous to cats. Even shampoos labeled as “all-natural” often contain oils that can be toxic or harmful to cats and the traditional flea shampoos contain pyrethrins which can be extremely dangerous.
Do fleas and ticks carry diseases?
If you incorporate these simple steps in conjunction with prescription flea and tick medications, you’ll protect your kitties (and yourself). While no one wants to deal with a flea infestation, it’s also worth remembering that fleas and ticks carry nasty diseases. Fleas and Ticks Transmit Disease.
Can dogs get heartworms?
Don’t Forget the Heartworms. “Heartworm disease has been reported in all 50 states of the U.S. This potentially fatal disease affects both dogs and cats and is very preventable. Mosquitoes, which transmit heartworms, can live year-round in many parts of the country.
Is flea medicine safe for cats?
In addition, some drugs will be riskier if a cat has a particular underlying condition, whilst others might be safer in certain ages, or in pregnancy . Of course, when in doubt be sure to consult your veterinarian who can provide ...
Can flea treatments cause hair loss?
However, the side effects most often noticed after flea treatments include : Drooling (thought to be from licking spot-ons) Hair loss (usually at site of application or collar) Vomiting (after tablet flea treatments) However, even though these are the ‘most commonly seen’ side effects, they’re generally very rare.
What is a flea collar?
Flumethrin/imidacloprid (flea collar) – temporary itchiness, redness and hair loss (less than 1 in 100 cats), eczema, inflammation and skin lesions (less than 1 in 1000 cats), change of food intake, drooling, vomiting, and diarrhoea (less than 1 in 1000 cats). From this information, the product with the least serious and least frequent side effects ...
Can you mix flea treatments?
Some products need applying differently to others, so check before each application that you know exactly where and how to apply and how much to give. You should never mix products, use a flea treatment designed for or prescribed for a different animal, or use a different dosage than the one that was prescribed.
How long does nitinpyram last?
Nitenpyram (tablet) – hyperactivity, panting, excessive grooming, yowling and itchiness lasting less than an hour (less than 1 in 10,000 animals treated), muscle tremors, wobbliness, and seizures (less than 1 in 10,000 animals treated).