Fleas are among the most common and annoying parasites that can affect cats. These tiny insects not only cause discomfort due to their bites, but they can also transmit serious diseases to both felines and humans. Knowing them thoroughly is essential to effectively prevent and eliminate them. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about fleas in cats.
What is a Flea?
Fleas are small, wingless insects, about 3 mm long, belonging to the order SiphonapteraThey are characterized by their ability to saltgreat distances thanks to their hind legs adapted for jumping. This allows them to move quickly between hosts or evade threats.
Dark in color, fleas that affect cats are usually a light shade reddish brownTheir laterally compressed body allows them to move easily through the animal's fur without being detected.
Main Characteristics of Fleas
- Size: They are tiny, approximately 1 to 3 mm.
- Jump: They can jump distances of up to 34 cm horizontally and 18 cm vertically.
- Reproduction: Females lay up to 50 eggs a day, which can lead to severe infestations.
- Feeding: They feed on the blood of mammals, which can cause anemia in severe cases.
Life Cycle of a Flea
The life cycle of a flea consists of four phases: egg, larva, pupa and adult. This cycle can be completed in just two weeks during the summer, or extend to eight months in cold climates. Females lay their eggs on the host, but these fall into the environment, infesting carpets, bedding and furniture.
During the larval stage, fleas do not feed on blood, but on organic remains such as dead skin and feces from adult fleas. When they become adults, they jump onto the host to feed and reproduce.
Flea-Transmitted Diseases
Fleas are not only a nuisance, but they can also transmit serious diseases to cats and humans.
Problems in Humans
In people, fleas can cause skin allergies and transmit diseases such as:
- Bubonic plague: Although rare, it is still a flea-borne disease.
- Murine typhus: Another bacterial infection associated with fleas.
Problems in Cats
In cats, fleas can cause:
- Flea Bite Allergic Dermatitis (FAD): Causes intense itching, redness and inflammation of the skin.
- Dipylidiosis: An intestinal infection caused by the tapeworm that fleas carry.
- hemoplasmosis: A bacterial infection that affects the cat's red blood cells, causing anemia.
- Filariasis: A parasitic disease most common in warm climates, caused by worms that affect the circulatory system.
How to Identify if Your Cat Has Fleas?
Detecting the presence of fleas early is crucial to avoiding serious infestations. Some signs that indicate your feline may have fleas include:
- constant scratching: Especially behind the ears, at the base of the tail and on the abdomen.
- Wounds or skin irritations: Caused by excessive scratching.
- Presence of shiny blackheads: They are flea droppings that are found when combing the cat's fur.
To confirm, use a flea comb on a white surface and look for black crumbs which, when moistened, turn reddish due to the digested blood.
Preventing and Treating Fleas in Cats
Prevention is the best strategy against fleas. There are chemical methods, natural and hygiene behaviors you can adopt to protect your cat.
Chemical Options
Chemicals are highly effective in preventing and treating infestations. Some of the most common include:
- Pipettes: Easy to apply and lasts up to 30 days.
- Necklaces: They provide long-lasting protection against fleas and ticks.
- Tablets: Ideal for severe infestations.
- Flea sprays: Useful for deworming specific areas of the body or the environment.
Natural medicine
If you prefer to avoid chemicals, you can opt for natural alternatives on the table:
- Infusion of chamomile.
- Homemade tonics based on lemon.
- Use of homemade insecticides.
Environmental Hygiene
In addition to treating your cat, it is key to eliminate fleas from your home. Wash blankets and beds in hot water, and vacuum upholstery and carpets regularly. A steam cleaner can be a useful tool. ideal to eliminate eggs and larvae.
As a cat caregiver over the years, I can attest that dealing with a flea infestation is one of the most challenging experiences. In one particular case, I had to resort to chemical treatments combined with thorough cleaning of the environment. Since then, I always make sure to use preventatives, especially during the warmer seasons.
Maintaining a deworming routine and being alert to the first signs of infestation can save us a lot of trouble. Always remember to consult your veterinarian before applying any treatment.
I love them mine are almost two years old. I have put flea shampoo and flea spray. I have one he does not allow himself to bathe. I give him meox mix of food.