Contents
Cats are curious animals that love going out and exploring. If you live in a home that has a backyard and your cat tends to go out and about, you can expect that it may end up with fleas. Even if you take good care of it and it only sits on the patio, if it meets another cat, your ball fo fur may end up infested.
If you’re a new cat owner, this shouldn’t scare you, as it is very common and can be easily treated. There are various solutions for cat fleas such as spot-on treatments, collars, pills, and sprays. Flea spray for cats are meant to be sprayed all over the cat’s fur coat but can also be sprayed onto the cat’s bed, cushions and any place where she likes to spend time. Here’s how you can check if your cat has fleas and how to apply the spray.
Do a Flea Check
If your cat is itching herself, it can be a pretty clear sign that she has fleas. If you want to be sure whether your feline has fleas, comb her hair meticulously (use a fine-tooth flea comb). Do this over a clean surface (white paper for example) so you can see the fleas. You may notice debris such as small black specs – put these on damp cotton wool. If this is flea dirt, they will dissolve leaving red-brown blood marks.
So, pretty much, this is how you check your cat for fleas. It’s not very pleasant, but it has to be done. You shouldn’t worry too much as this is a very common and normal thing. The right flea spray for cats can do wonders for your ball of fur.
Why Use a Flea Spray?
There are various flea treatments for cats, but not all of them are suitable. It’s best to ask your vet for advice; they know your cat’s health history and will suggest the best treatment. You can find many over-the-counter products for this purpose such as spot-on treatments, sprays, or pills. What’s most important is to follow the instructions and apply the treatment as it is suggested on the box.
Although you may come across dog flea treatments in the vet store, don’t just assume that they will work the same for cats. In fact, they could be quite dangerous. Although sprays are perhaps the easiest way to protect your cat from fleas, the cat might not agree with this. They will surely be protesting by hissing or trying to escape. Also, keep in mind that the spray might not last as long as pills, so you will have to re-apply it a month or two later.
Ingredients & Benefits
Since kittens are also likely to get fleas (especially if you adopt an abandoned feral kitten), you should read the ingredients carefully. Be sure to get a product that works well for young cats as well. Since these products can be quite harsh, they might be too aggressive for the young kitten’s skin and fur. Talk to your vet before buying a product. The great thing about flea spray for cats is that they will get rid of those nasty little parasites.
When your cat stops scratching, it can relax and enjoy without being disturbed. Also, untreated fleas in cats can lead to severe scratching that could result in her ruining its fur and even bleeding. If left untreated, they can turn into adult fleas and attach to the host in mere seconds. However, fleas can lie waiting in a cocoon for up to two years. The life cycle of these parasites is successful within only two weeks, which gives fleas the chance to reproduce fast and in large numbers.
How & Where to Apply It?
It’s very important that you read the instructions before you spray the flea spray. Most of these products are safe to use on the cat’s coat, but also onto the upholstery, cat’s bed, pillows and any place where the cat likes to nap, sit lounge.
When spraying it onto your cat’s fur, the animal might get scared. Cats hate that spraying sound and the fact that this is liquid won’t help the situation very much. It’s best if you have a helping hand from another person who will hold the cat gently (they can give the cat some treats) while you spray. Once you spray a few times, gently massage the cat’s fur coat. Make sure that the area is moist, not damp. Never spray into your cat’s eyes, genitals or mouth. The tail, back, stomach and legs should be well sprayed with the product.
How Often Should You Re-Apply the Spray?
Again, this depends on the product and its usage instructions. However, it’s recommendable to re-apply the spray after two to four hours. Never spray your cat more than twice within 24 hours. In case your cat gets fleas again, you can spray it as needed. Often, the product indicates when the next re-application should be done. If you aren’t sure about this, make sure to ask your vet for the next re-application.
