What Every Cat Owner Needs to Know About Flea Problems

Fleas are one of the most common parasites that affect pets like cats and dogs. If they’re not dealt with quickly and properly, fleas can rapidly reproduce, causing lots of problems for both your pet and your home. One female flea can lay up to 50 eggs a day, which can hatch in carpets, furniture and bedding, turning into a major infestation. 

As a cat owner, knowing what causes flea problems and how to keep fleas under control is essential to looking after your feline friend. In this guide, we have explored the common causes of flea infestations in cats, how they can affect your pets and which treatments are available. It’s easier than you might think to protect your cat and keep them safe from fleas.

Why Flea Problems Are a Serious Concern for Cats 

Many pet parents dread their furry friends getting fleas. They might be tiny pests, but they can be a significant health risk for your cat. Fleas feed on blood and can cause skin irritation, making your cat scratch and excessively clean themself, which can result in small scabs and hair loss. Some cats can have a flea allergy too, making them even more dangerous. Not to mention, fleas can carry diseases and other parasites like tapeworms. 

As the weather gets warmer during the summer months, it’s more common to find fleas in dogs and cats, so now is the perfect time to treat your pet if you haven’t already.

Common Causes of Fleas in Cats 

It isn’t uncommon for pet owners to think that if they have an indoor cat, they will be safe from fleas, but this isn’t always the case. There are lots of different ways cats can pick up fleas and it’s important to protect your cat, even if they stay inside. 

Signs Your Cat Might Have Fleas 

Spotting fleas early can make treatment more effective and prevent your cat from becoming unwell. Keep an eye out for the following signs:  

If you think your cat might have fleas, it’s important to act quickly. Not only should you treat your cat, but you also need to treat your home, including your carpets and soft furnishings to kill any fleas, eggs and larvae, and prevent them from jumping back onto your cat. Don’t forget to treat any other pets in your household too, even if they aren’t yet showing any symptoms as they could also be infected.  

Effective Flea Prevention and Treatment Options 

Thankfully, there are lots of effective ways to both prevent and treat fleas in cats. Some of the most popular and reliable options include;

Cat Flea Tablets 

Cat flea tablets are a fast-acting solution that often starts to kill fleas in just fifteen minutes. They can be hidden in food if your cat doesn’t like taking them directly, and they’re often used as an emergency solution if your cat already has fleas. Johnsons' and Bob Martin flea tables for cats are quick and easy to use, and will provide relief from fleas within twenty-four hours. Flea tables are usually safe to use with other flea treatments too.  

Cat Flea Collars 

A cat flea collar is a safe and convenient way to prevent flea infestations. These collars are designed to provide long-lasting protection, and solutions like the Beaphar reflective collar can repel fleas for up to eight weeks. Flea collars use natural plant extracts, such as Margosa and Lavandin Oil, and are pesticide-free. Some collars are even designed for lice and tick control too, providing all-around protection. 

Cat Flea Combs 

Using a cat flea comb is a straightforward way to detect and remove fleas from your cat’s fur. These are fine-toothed combs that are specially designed to catch fleas, eggs, larvae and flea dirt when run through the fur. The Rosewood flea comb is ideal for cats of all ages, providing immediate relief from irritation. You can use this comb on a regular basis to check your cat and catch any infestations early.

Cat Flea Solutions

Cat flea solutions can be used for both prevention and treatment. For instance, the Beaphar Cat Spot On can be put onto the skin at the back of your cat’s neck and it will repel fleas for up to four weeks. It’s a quick and effective way to keep your pet safe. Whereas, the Bob Martin Flea Clear Spot On is applied in the same way, but it kills fleas. Once it has killed the infestation, it will continue to protect against new fleas for up to five weeks.

How Favour Can Help With Fleas