Fleas are the most common parasite to plague cats.
Fleas are extremely small, usually brown in colour and can jump up to two feet. They feed on blood.
They can live for as little as two weeks or up to a year.
It is very easy for a flea to jump onto a cat, either whilst the cat is in the garden or if the cat comes into contact with another animal that has fleas.
Once the flea is on the cat it will start biting (drawing blood) and laying many eggs. Some eggs will stay on the cat others will fall off onto carpets, rugs, sofas, bedding when the cat scratches and attempts to clean himself.
Fleas do not live on humans, but the can bite and this can cause irritation. Some flea bites are extremely itchy.
If you see your kitty scratching or cleaning excessively buy a flea comb and gently comb through his fur. If you see very small brown moving 'spots' they will probably be fleas. Also black spots are another indicator (excretion of dried blood from the fleas) or very small white flea eggs.
Both pet shops and vets will hold a large array of flea soaps, sprays, collars and various other products to kill fleas.
Remember to also treat any other pet you have in the house as fleas will jump from one animal to another.
You also will have to treat the house and possibly the garden.
In the house try and vacuum daily, especially around kitty's bedding and food areas. Make sure all rugs and carpets are vacuumed daily. Keep everything clean. If an infestation has occurred you have to use specialised products.
There are many types of chemical and organic sprays and products which can be used in the garden and outside of the house.
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Cats
Non-FictionThe title says it all! Find out what a cat likes to play with, how to look after them, vaccinations, food, allergies and more...
