We all want our feline friends to be happy and healthy, but external parasites can pose serious threats to their wellbeing. Fortunately, there is a wide range of effective flea and tick preventatives available to protect your cat against these pesky critters. With the help of your dedicated veterinarian, you can ensure your cat thrives and doesn't ever have to suffer the conditions these parasites spread. At Crosslake Veterinary Hospital, we believe that educating pet owners is vital to improving their cats' health and wellbeing. If you have any questions about fleas, ticks or prevention please call us at (218) 692-4400, and we will do everything we can to get your kitty on the right path.

What are fleas and ticks?

Fleas are very tiny insects that feed off of the blood of animals. The flea lifecycle typically spans over twelve days, and an adult flea can lay up to fifty eggs during its lifetime. Fleas are commonly found outside in grassy areas but can migrate into your home on shoes, clothing, and fur. There, they reproduce rapidly by laying their eggs in your carpets, upholstery, and many other hidden areas. These eggs hatch as larvae and then develop into pupae before maturing into adult fleas. Once fully mature the adult fleas begin laying eggs of their own and the cycle continues.

Ticks are small, round, spider-like arachnids that also feed on the blood of animals. They go through four life stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. Ticks can bite and feed on pets during their larval, nymph, and adult stages. Female ticks lay thousands of eggs in the environment, which then hatch into larvae and attach to hosts like small mammals or pets. Once they become nymphs, they find new hosts to feed on.

Person applying flea and tick medication

How do fleas and ticks impact the health and wellbeing of my cat?

Fleas and ticks can cause a range of health issues for cats, including skin irritations, hair loss, anemia, and the transmission of diseases. Flea bites can cause intense itching, leading to redness, raw skin, and bloody sores from excessive scratching. Some cats may develop flea allergy dermatitis, a sensitivity to flea saliva that causes severe itching. Persistent scratching and irritation from fleas and ticks can also result in patchy fur loss and rough or spiky fur. Fleas are the intermediate host for tapeworms, an intestinal parasite. If a cat swallows a flea, it can lead to a tapeworm infection which can cause weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Since fleas and ticks feed on blood, untreated infestations can result in severe anemia and can be life-threatening, especially in kittens.

Ticks can also transmit vector-borne diseases such as Lyme Disease, causing symptoms like fever, decreased appetite, and stiff or swollen joints. If left untreated tick-borne diseases can lead to serious complications such as cardiac problems, neurologic dysfunction, joint damage, and kidney failure. 

How do cats get fleas and ticks?

Cats can get fleas and ticks from a variety of sources, including the outdoors, other animals, and even humans. Fleas thrive in warm and humid climates, while ticks can be found in tall grasses, trees, and shrubs. Cats that spend time outdoors are at a higher risk of encountering these parasites. However, even indoor cats aren't safe; fleas and ticks can enter a home through another pet or human clothing. Once inside, these parasites can lay eggs in cracks or crevices and multiply quickly, potentially infesting your cat.

Why is the prevention of fleas and ticks so important?

Preventing flea and tick infestations is the best way to protect your cat from the potentially life threatening conditions these parasites can cause. Fleas and ticks can spread quickly throughout a home if left untreated, making it more challenging and costly to eliminate an infestation rather than preventing one in the first place.

How can a veterinarian help with flea and tick prevention?

A veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on flea and tick prevention. They can help pet owners choose the most suitable products and explain the differences between repellents, which keep fleas and ticks away from your pet, and treatments, which kill these parasites after they have attached to your pet. Veterinarians can also advise on the frequency of application and any potential side effects or interactions with other medications. Furthermore, a veterinarian can provide guidance on proper application techniques to ensure effectiveness.

What are some signs and symptoms of a flea and tick infestation in your cat?

It's essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of flea and tick infestations in cats so that you can identify an infestation early and take action.

The most common signs and symptoms include:

  • Visible fleas or ticks on the cat's body
  • Tiny pepper-like specks on your cat's fur (flea dirt)
  • Intense scratching or biting
  • Excessive grooming
  • Hair loss
  • Red skin lesions or scab-like bumps
  • Pale gums
  • Lethargy
  • Muscle loss
  • Avoiding certain parts of the home

What do fleas and ticks look like?

Fleas are small, wingless insects with a dark brown color and flat bodies. They typically measure about 1/8 inch in length and possess six legs, with the hind legs being longer and stronger, enabling them to jump considerable distances. Ticks, on the other hand, are arachnids that are closely related to spiders. They possess eight legs and have a tear-drop or oval-shaped body before feeding, which becomes round after feeding. Ticks can be difficult to see with the naked eye, but they are larger than fleas.

What are some possible diseases that fleas and ticks can transmit?

Fleas and ticks can transmit various cat diseases and internal parasites:

Cat itching itself with a hind leg

These diseases can cause fever, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, anemia, and other serious health issues. If left untreated, they can be fatal.

What are the Most Effective Flea and Tick Treatments for Cats?

The most effective flea and tick treatments for cats are prescription medications, such as topical spot-on products or, oral medications. It's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your pet.

What Should I Do If I Find Fleas or Ticks on My Cat?

If you see any signs of fleas or ticks on your cat, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. For ticks, carefully search your cat's whole body and gently remove any ticks with tweezers or a tick removal device. Fleas can be removed with a specialized fine-toothed metal comb carefully dipped into a soap and water mixture to kill them. Once all parasites are removed, your cat must be put on the appropriate flea and tick medication to prevent the recurrence of infestation. Additionally, you may need to treat your pet's environment such as your home and your cat's bedding.

In Conclusion

Fleas and tickscan lead to various diseases along with extreme skin irritation, anemia, and hair loss. The best way to protect your cat is by using effective flea and tick preventatives recommended by your veterinarian. At Crosslake Veterinary Hospital we are dedicated to helping pet owners maintain their cats' health and keep them safe from parasites like fleas and ticks. If you are in the Crosslake, MN area, call us today to schedule an appointment and get your cat started on a reliable preventative. We are always here to help.