Flea Facts - Things You Didn't Know!

Flea is a wingless insect equipped with very powerful hind legs that let it jump 9 inches straight or 5 feet sideways.

They are similar to cockroaches they tend to adapt to the environment very quickly.

They become stronger and immune to all chemicals with time.

Most of them live in the pet's environment, and not in its fur. (Every flea found on your pet means there are 35 more living in the environment.)

A single female flea can lay 60 eggs per day.

Fleas attack your pets only when they require a blood transfer.

The female prefers to lay her eggs not on your dog or cat, but in dark, damp places.( As eggs laid on your pet can fall off very quickly)

The flea lays up to 20 eggs at a time and may be able to deposit 400 in her lifetime.(90 days)

The adult flea feeds on your pet by grinding into its victim's flesh until red body fluid is seen. Luckily your pet, the flea does not have to feed on your pet very often as single meal can satisfy the flea for two months and combine that with hundreds of fleas feeding on your pet at the same time and so, Flea control is a very important thing that you should not ignore .

Natural ways for Flea control can range from using only one item to a combination of a few. One thing to be noted here is, Fleas can survive in extreme conditions which enables them to stay alive in summers and winters as well. Common kitchen items used to kill fleas are Ginger, Vinegar and water etc.

Find many more facts about fleas at flea control.

For more information about fleas and pest control , please visit Flea control.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suneedh_Kumar

Cat Flea Control With Program Oral Suspension

Program Oral Suspension offers cat owners a unique way to eliminate fleas. Used on a monthly basis, the active ingredients control the local flea population by destroy juvenile or larval stage fleas. Most of the fleas in and around our homes are actually these young, non-biting fleas so it makes sense to use a product that eliminates them before they starting biting or breeding.

Program is a liquid flea medicine. This makes it particularly good for our feline friends who tend to ba a little unwilling to take tablet based medicines. All you do, is mix the liquid with about two spoons of their usual cat food. Some owners like to add a little something extra such as tuna or sardine oil, to really encourage their pet to take their flea meds.

The idea is that this flea control liquid is used every thirty days. It is this regular use that is key to controlling the flea population in and around your home. Usually after two or three months the local flea population has been pretty well destroyed as no new generations have been able to breed. In the meantime it is usual to use Program in conjunction with another method of flea control that focuses on eliminating adult fleas. Capstar flea tablets are the sister products to Program. One dose will destroy all the fleas on your cat, or that come into contact with her during the 24 hours following treatment.

Using a method of flea control that reduces the risk of your cat ingesting any harmful pesticides is something more owners are favoring, as the perils of cheap topical treatments become apparent.

Program Oral Suspension is designed to safely control fleas in cats and kittens from six weeks of age. Dogs should be treated with Program Flavor Tabs.

For more information about Program Oral Suspension for Cats and Program Flavor Tabs for Dogs or to buy Cheap Flea Meds click on the links.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lec_Watkins

Cat Flea Medicine - How to Choose Cat Flea Medicine

•Always carefully read and follow the label instructions of the cat flea medicine before administering to your cat.


•Always check to be sure that the dosage of the cat flea medicine is based upon the correct age and weight for your cat before application.


•Always follow your veterinarian's recommendations when administering cat flea medicine to your cat. If his recommendation conflicts with the label directions, ask for an explanation. And always make sure your veterinarian is aware of any other products you may be using for flea control, including area sprays, shampoos, and powders.


•Products labeled for other types of animals should not be given to your cat. In other words, do not try save money by letting your dog flea medicine do double duty on your cat.


•Be careful using over-the-counter pet store cat flea medicines. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian to determine safety. Cats have been reported to have toxic reactions to flea control products with permethrin or pyrethrin as the active ingredient.


•Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after applying cat flea medicines.


•As always, keep cat flea medicines and all petmedicines out of the hands of children.

•And finally, remember that cat flea medicine is just one step in managing the health of your cat. Regular grooming should be a daily part of your cat's life. Using a shedding brush to prevent hair mats and hair balls will help your cat stay healthy and looking good. Follow up with a flea comb to make certain your cat is flea free. These combs have very closely spaced teeth that will gather up the fleas. By quickly pushing the fleas off the comb and into a bowl of water with a dab of ammonia in it will kill them instantly, and prevent the little beasts from hopping back onto your cat. The immediate relief your cat will experience from flea combing will bring him back for more every day. YOU will become his hero.


Cat flea medicine may be the most important product you buy to care for your precious cat. Fleas are not just annoying; they are a real health hazard for your cat as well as any other animal living in your home including yourself. Flea bites are painful and irritating. For cats that are sensitive or flea-allergic, the itching can be quite severe and lead to hair-loss, inflammation and secondary skin infections. Some cats are so hypersensitive to the flea's saliva that they will itch all over from the bite of even a single flea! These prolific pests can also carry worms, that when ingested by your cat can cause serious health problems. A severe infestation of fleas can even lead to a cat's death from blood loss and anemia. Administering cat flea medicine is one of several important steps that all cat owners should take to protect their cat, their family, and their home from fleas and other pests.

Features to Consider in Cat Flea medicine


•Veterinarian recommended – The best place to begin choosing a cat flea medicine is with your veterinarian. He or she will be familiar with issues unique to your cat and the region in which you live that may affect the best choice of cat flea medicine.


•Dosage – Whenever you administer any type of cat flea medicine, be certain that the dosage is appropriate for your animal based upon breed, size, and overall health.


•Effect – You may want to consider a cat flea medicine that is also effective against other pests like mosquitoes and ticks, depending upon where you live and the indoor/outdoor habits of your cat.


•Presentation – Cat flea medicine is available in a large variety of products from oral liquids and pills to topical liquids and shampoos. You will want to consider what will be the easiest form for you to consistently administer.


•Safety – It is important to choose a cat flea medicine that will be safe as well as effective. Always follow the label directions and your veterinarian's recommendations when administering any form of cat flea medication. Never use dog flea medicine on your cat.


•Efficacy – Whatever method you choose to administer cat flea medicine you will want to be sure it is effective. Due to the prolific nature of fleas, half measures may only make the problem worse. It is usually best to use a cat flea medicine that not only kills the adult fleas, but also kills the egg and larval stages of the flea to interrupt the flea life cycle.


•Ingredients – Ask your veterinarian what ingredients in the cat flea medicine will be both effective and safe for your cat. Traditional pesticides contained in insect control products for other animals and the environment can be toxic to cats, so it is best to use a cat flea medicine specifically formulated for cats. Additionally, many natural remedies that rely on aromatic oils are potentially toxic to cats.


•Cost – You will want to consider the cost over the long term when choosing any cat flea medicine. Regardless of where you live, a flea control program for cats should be year around because sporadic flea prevention can lead to flea allergies in cats.


•Guarantee – You may want to consider whether the cat flea medicine you choose comes with a guarantee, and remember that the guarantee will be based upon proper administration of the cat flea medicine.


•Waterproof – Unless your cat lives outdoors or enjoys regular bathes, you probably don't need to choose a cat flea medicine that is waterproof. While it is worth the extra expense with many dogs, you can probably save some money here with your cat.


•Frequency of administration – You will want to consider your cat's lifestyle and how much time you wish to spend grooming your cat in order to decide how frequently you will want to administer your cat flea medicine.

Desirable Features of Cat Flea medicine


•Ease of administration – No one wants to have to wrestle with their cat on a regular basis to administer cat flea medicine.


•Safe – The cat flea medicine you choose should be formulated specifically for cats and administered in the proper dosage for your specific breed, age and size of cat.


•Effective – Depending upon where you live and whether your cat is indoors or outdoors you will want to choose a cat flea medicine that will be effective to provide complete protection for your cat. If in doubt, consult with your veterinarian to determine the type of cat flea medicine that will be most effective for your unique situation.


•Cost – Consistency is the key, so choose a cat flea medicine that you will be able to consistently provide for your cat.


Ideal Choice in Cat Flea medicine

For most of us, a topical cat flea medicine used once per month is the easiest and most cost effective to administer. Some of the top cat flea medicine products on the market include:


•Advantage® - cat flea medicine both repels and kills fleas.


•Frontline Top Spot® - cat flea medicine also repels and kills fleas as well as ticks.


•Frontline Plus® - cat flea medicine repels and kills fleas and ticks like Frontline Top Spot, but is also waterproof.


•Revolution® - cat flea medicine. In addition to killing fleas, this product also prevents heartworm disease, and controls ear mites, hookworms and roundworms.

For severe infestations, the following two cat flea medicine products may be your best choice.


•Capstar® - cat flea medicine. This kills adult fleas very quickly, starting within 30 minutes, and may be useful for particularly sensitive cats that have been unexpectedly exposed to fleas. It is in pill form, and is often used in combination with Program® to help prevent the fleas from returning and prevent eggs from hatching.


•Program® - cat flea medicine. Prevents flea infestation by preventing development of the flea eggs. This is available in monthly injection, tablets and liquid forms for cats. It is often used with Capstar®, which kills adult fleas when there is an active infestation.


Source from www.petproductadvisor.com

Old Wives Tales About Cats: Common Cat Myths

By: Renae Hamrick, RVT

There are countless theories and ideas out there on cats and cat care. What should you believe? Is it true or is it merely an old wives' tale that has mutated as it has been passed along?Listed below are several common cat myths, old wives' tales, and legends and the truth or lack of truth they contain.

1. Cats can suck the breath from a baby. – NOT true! Cats have no intentions or ability to suck the breath from a baby. You should, however, be cautious of allowing a pet to sleep with a small child, in case of other inadvertent injuries.

2. Pregnant women should not scoop the litter box. – This has a lot of truth, but there is NO need to get rid of your cat. Toxoplasmosis is a parasite that a cat can carry without showing signs. This parasite, which can be acquired by handling their feces, is a concern for pregnant women because it can be detrimental to a developing fetus.While it is best for someone other than the pregnant woman to scoop the litter box, it is generally safe if scooped at least once every 24 hours. Pregnant women must also be cautious of this parasite when gardening and handling raw meat. Wearing gloves is best.

3. Cats cause schizophrenia. – This is NOT true! Pets are actually very helpful to our mental health.

4. Cats can see ghosts. – There is no scientific evidence of this.

5. If you have multiple male cats, they will spray and mark. – This is possible, but not necessarily true. Male and sometimes even female cats living by themselves will mark. Neutering before sexual maturity is the best way to prevent marking behavior.

6. Milk is good for cats. – A cat eating a high-quality food should not need milk. Cow's milk contains more lactose than a cat can tolerate, and will often cause diarrhea. If your cat insists on drinking milk, milk made for cats, such as Catsip, is best for him.

Source from www.petplace.com

Flea Removal - Practise Safe Flea Extermination For Young Cats

Young little cats or kittens are vulnerable to fleas as they can cause major illnesses that could eventually become fatal. Anemia and tapeworms are just two of the more common ailments that can develop from infestation. You need to make additional effort to ensure complete flea removal and the suggested approach is by natural cat flea treatment. The natural approach is preferred especially when you have kittens at home as well.

Conducting pet flea control on young kittens can be challenging as most commercial cat flea treatment tools are not suitable due to the young age. This simply excludes the most common and effective commercial remedies like cat flea collar, shampoos, spot application medication. Hence, it is advisable that you apply natural cat flea treatment instead.

The first thing you should do with the natural approach should be to bathe the kittens. And one key point to note, although it might sound paradoxical, is not to use cat flea shampoo which contains a harmful chemical that is toxic to cats. Use mild shampoo into a good lather to suffocate and drown the fleas.

The flea comb on the other hand can be used to get rid of remaining stubborn fleas after their bath. Like used on any pets, you should comb your kitten on their neck and tails as on a daily basis after bath, or on interim within the day to prevent re infestation. It takes a lot of tender loving care, effort as well as time but all is worth the good health of your kitten.

Thorough home cleaning is the other aspect that many pet owners tend to ignore due to the fact that it entails extensive amounts of work on a consistent basis. But if you wish the best environment for your kitten to grow up in, you cannot ignore home cleaning. Wash all bedding and furniture covering on regular weekly basis, clean each room carefully by vacuuming and cleaning with a warm mop. Burn the vacuum bags every time after cleaning as you do not wish to have the fleas re infest themselves from the bags.

Start a flea removal plan today to help your kittens grow up in a healthy environment and stake up you natural cat flea treatment toolbox with effective solutions.

GET TIPS at Flea Removal here for Flea Extermination that Really Works. Or Find Flea Remedies for more details on Pet Flea Control to Guard Your Pets From Fleas.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yoshiko_Choy

Looking For Natural Flea Repellent That Works?

Getting rid of fleas is one problem that pet owners always take care of on a daily basis and applying natural flea repellent is one of the numerous means of dealing with this setback. Despite the fact that it is true that there are various flea products out there to select from, many pet owners have been let down with some, if not all of them. The motive is either that some of them are expensive or others are harmful for both individuals and pets. Hence, it is extremely advisable to rummage around for natural avenues that work out and one that will not dig a hole in your pocket. If you are in this condition, this article is meant for you.

Even though a number of flea products producers in the market habitually condemn natural systems of getting rid of fleas, the reality is that these means happen as expected. Do not ever pay attention to the makers; they are doing that to get your cash! Natural flea repellents work out! They lend a hand to effectively get rid of these useless invitees from your home and pets. Whether it is a dog or cat you have, these repellents can help keep fleas away from them.

Nonetheless, you must take note of what I am about to say right now. The only method you can accomplish something with making use of this method is before your pet is infected. To put in another way, it will not be successful if your pet is already contending with the difficulty. The natural method discussed in this expose should be disbursed early spring and should go on into the fall before you can have victory.

One of the top natural flea repellents that happen as expected is garlic. Certainly, it is the oldest and most excellent form of getting rid of fleas from your domicile and pets. There are two manners of administering it on your pets. The first one is to apply it fresh into your pets food. The disadvantage of this line of attack is that it is habitually unpleasant and the odor may put you off. The second line of attack is to get hold of the odorless kind from a good and dependable store out there. This is not messy and also, you will not observe the odor as it is coated. But the fleas will get a whiff of the odor and be put off from your pets.

If you have attempted getting rid of fleas and have not succeeded, it is high time you take into account natural flea repellent. It has worked for various pet owners such as you grappling with the trouble of fleas. Unlike other flea products out there, it is nontoxic for you and your pets. The use of garlic is the best natural way of treating fleas.

Ras Reed gives extra attention-grabbing fleas management suggestions such as Getting Rid Of Ants in addition to Fleas On Cats on his website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ras_Reed

Flea Removal - Getting Rid of Fleas With Your Cat Flea Treatment Toolbox

There are many flea removal methods to deal with infestation in cats. You might have friends who tell you different flea extermination approaches which could be confusing and even detrimental to the health of your cat if you are not discerning enough. Here, you will find an array of cat flea treatment arsenal that you could use as and when required.

If you have to use over the counter pet flea control products, remember to read the instructions thoroughly and follow the directions to a tee as deviation could harm rather than heal your cat. Be warned that you should never use a product meant for a dog on your cat. Dog flea treatment could contain toxic chemicals which are toxic to feline and might even cost them their lives in severe cases.

Flea shampoos and flea combs are useful for preventive measures as well as slowing down the reproduction process. The lather in the shampoo smothers and drowns the parasites, and this routine if repeated on a daily basis can vastly reduce these parasites. Flea combs are also useful and you should focus on the neck as well as tail for both activities.

While I do not promote confining your cat indoors, ensure that you do not have unknown stray cats and dogs in your yard mingling with your cat. Fleas could be rampant and easily transmitted from them. Better still, it is recommended that you set up high net fences if your yard is often frequented by strays.

Only an all encompassing flea removal plan of cat flea treatment measures followed through persistently can help you with flea extermination.

FIND TIPS at Flea Removal here for Flea Extermination that Really Works. Or Check out Flea Remedies for Flea Infestation on Pet Flea Control to Guard Your Pets From Fleas.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Yoshiko_Choy

How to Use a Topical Cat Flea Treatment

To ensure you benefit from all the flea killing power of your cats flea treatment you really must use the product properly. With correct use they provide thorough, long-lasting flea control and are extremely safe for your pets. So here are a few pointers to ensure you use your cats flea meds correctly.

Grab yourself some tissues in case of spills, some scissors to open up the vial and settle down with your cat. Ensure you have the correct pack of flea medicine for your cat. Many offer different versions and doses depending on the size and type of pet so make sure you have the one you should.

Once you cat is relaxed cut the top of the flea drops so you're ready to go. Part the fur of your pet between the shoulder blades to expose as much skin as possible. Squirt the topical flea treatment onto the skin. If there is too much liquid for the amount of skin just use a little and allow it to sink in before applying any more. Flea medicine on your cat's fur will not be able to 'translocate' around their whole body and provide the long-lasting parasite prevention you're paying for.

Once you've managed to get all the liquid to soak into the skin wash your hands and clear away tubes and packets. Keep an eye on your cat for half an hour or so, to stop her licking or rubbing off all the flea medicine. Try not to handle your pet too much over the next few hours or you'll end up absorbing some of your cats flea treatment. This isn't a problem but it leaves less flea killing power on your pet.

That's all there is to it. Just pop a note on the fridge or a reminder in your diary to do it all again next month. After all the key to flea prevention is regular use of a reliable cat flea treatment.
For more information on the various kinds of cat flea treatment, and cat flea tick issues click on the links.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lec_Watkins

Benefits of Frontline Cat Flea Treatment

Frontline Plus is a monthly topical cat flea treatment. To be fully effective the product must be placed onto the skin of your pet. On contact with the skin the active ingredients are circulated across the whole body via the sebaceous glands. It is usual to apply the product between the shoulder blades as this is somewhere the cat will not have access too, thus preventing him form removing the cat flea medicine.

Frontline Cat Safety

Frontline Plus uses two active ingredients; fipronil and methoprene. Both come from a new generation of pest control products which though lethal to insects and some other invertebrates are harmless for mammals. While both bond easily with the insect's nervous system they are unable to bond with that of a mammal so therefore have no affect upon animals. Unless ingested in vast quantities there have been no results to show any danger to animals using Frontline.

Frontline Flea Power

Frontline cat flea drops destroy fleas at three different life stages. The methoprene is a growth inhibitor which halts the development of flea eggs and larvae. Unable to grow both quickly die. Fipronil overstimulates the adult fleas so they quickly die too. A huge benefit to using Frontline is that it also kills ticks which in some areas may be a problem for domestic pets.

Frontline Speed

This isn't the fastest acting flea medicine on the market but it still cannot be called slow! Within 24 hours 98-100% of fleas coming into contact with your pet will be dead. All ticks are destroyed within 24 to 48 hours.

Longer Lasting Flea Control

Frontline Plus will control flea and tick problems for at least a month. In reality this protection can last for up to three months. On average customers report between 6 to 10 weeks of consistent flea control when using this cat flea treatment. This is the only brand of flea drops able to offer such long-lasting protection. Because it starts killing fleas within a few hours of being used, it is simple to leave your cats next dose until you see signs of flea activity re-occurring.

Benefits with Frontline Plus

There are two main reasons to use this cat flea medicine. First of all, a huge benefit for many cat owners is that it fights ticks as well as all stages of cat fleas. Secondly, because it often will remain effective for much longer than a month it can work out more cost effective than other brands of cat flea treatment.

For more information about Frontline for cats and other methods of cat flea treatment click on the links.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lec_Watkins

What Indoor Cats Need to Be Happy

By: Dr. Debra Primovic

Keeping your cat Happy

Cats are kept indoors for a number of reasons most relating to health and safety. The most common reasons include minimizing their exposure to outdoor dangers, traumas, toxins and deadly exposure to infections. Cats that are kept exclusively indoors live on average at least twice as long as outdoor cats.

Although the indoor environment may be safer, the indoor environment may not interesting to a curious cat. It is important to create an environment that is enriched, stimulating, and helps supplement what cats normally would get outside.

The following are some ideas and recommendations to help your indoor cat be its happiest!

1. Good litter, litter box, and litter box care – make sure you have an adequate number and size of litter boxes. You should have at least one box per cat PLUS one. They should be cleaned or scooped daily, litter changed monthly and boxes replaced twice a year. They should also be in a location where your cat feels safe using the box and away from high traffic areas and dogs. Good litter box hygiene is a must for cats! You should use the texture and type of litter that appeals to your cat.

Editors Pick: Large open clear box with high sides, no hood. Plastic storage boxes are a good choice. Our favorite choice for litter is a scoopable unscented litter. Here are more tips on shopping for litter or litter boxes.

2. Good quality food – indoor cats need good quality food to stay healthy. Choose the best quality food that you can afford. Make sure the label indicates that it is "AFFCO" approved which reflects that they company incorporated the minimal levels of nutrients that should be included in a commercial food.

Editors Pick: Hill's® Science Diet®. formulated to fit the needs of your kitten, adult, or senior cat.

3. Grow a little cat grass – most cats love cat grass. You can easily grow a small pot or planter and offer it periodically as a special treat.

Editors Pick: "Priscilla's cat grass" is a good choice. In our experience, it grows really well and every seed is good quality. My cats love it!

4. Toys – cats love to play and making sure your cats have lots of toys that like helps to enrich their environment. Every cat has differences toy and play preferences. To learn more about your cats play preferences, click here. At a minimum, have some toys that roll, something with catnip and a toy on a string that can be moved to help stimulate your cat to pounce and play.

Editors Pick: Depends on the toy preference of your cat. Laser lights, feathery feline flyers and cat nip toys are favorites with many cats. To figure out which your cat may prefer, click here.

5. Play time – cats should be given at least 10 minutes of attention each per day. This should include some playing time and some bonding time.

Editors Pick: Learn more about how cats play!

6. Scratching post – cats have a desire to scratch. Scratching allows them to sharpen their claws, get rid of dead claw pieces and mark territory. Even de-clawed cats like to go through the motions of scratching. You should make sure you have a good spot for your cat to scratch!

Editors Pick: the best scratching post is one your cat likes. Make sure it is tall enough for him or her to really stretch out. Keep it in a location where you cat likes to hang out and if you have multiple cats, consider having multiple posts. Learn more tips on choosing a scratching post!

7. Refuge – All cats need a refuge or place to get away and feel safe. Most "refuges" are boxes, beds or cat carriers in a place off the beaten path of the busy household. It should be a place where your cat can get away, feel safe and rest peacefully. This is especially important in busy households, households with dogs or multiple cats.

Editors Pick: Our favorite refuge is a spot on top of a cabinet or dresser that has a small soft area to rest. It should be tall enough for your cat to feel safe and watch the environment. Something as simple as a bed or blanket on a high table or dresser can be a great refuge. Remember, it should be in an area where the dog can not bother your cat and if you have multiple cats, you may need multiple refuges.

8. Visual stimulation – every cat should have the ability to look out the window and be simulated by the environment. A screened in porch is ideal but if that is not possible a nice window seat or window bed is a wonderful addition. Cats love to watch nature and other out-door activities. If possible, consider placing a bird feeder within view of the window.

Editors Pick: Our favorite product for visual stimulation is a screened in porch. If you have a screened in porch, make sure you have some perches and refuges there where you cat can look down on the world. Window bays are great.

Perch – cats love to climb and a perch is a wonderful spot for your cat to feel save, observe the environment and climb! Cat trees often have a nice perch and don't take up much room.

Editors Pick: A tall stable cat tree that has a high safe spot for cats to watch the environment. It is especially good in an active room or in a location where your cat can look out the window.

10.Love – cats love to be loved. Take time to let your kitty know you care.

For more information on how to choose the safe toys, click here or how to choose the right products for other environmental enrichment, click here.



Legal Disclaimer

If your pet is showing any signs of distress or you suspect your pet is seriously ill, CONTACT YOUR VETERINARIAN immediately.
All of the information presented on this website was developed by Intelligent Content Corporation staff members and is the sole responsibility of Intelligent Content Corporation.
See the legal terms on the website for additional legal terms.


Source from www.petplace.com

How To Tell If Your Cat Has Fleas

Author: Rona Limsy

If you notice something blackish and small crawling around your cat's fur, you are probably right to suspect that they are cat fleas. When cat fleas strike, they can mean big trouble and it’s important to get rid of cat fleas quickly and thoroughly. A flea infestation of your home can happen in no time at all as the fleas lay eggs on carpeting. A cat flea treatment often isn’t enough and you’ll have to deep clean your whole home.


It is quite easy to notice the presence of cat fleas. Your cat may be scratching very frequently and more intensely than normal. You or your family may have red itchy spots on your ankles or stomach as well.


Comb your cat's fur near its tail and you will find small bits of dead fur and blackish dirt. This is the excrement of fleas. To test, tap the hair and dirt onto a white piece of paper and sprinkle over with water. If the little bits of crumbling, dark stuff dissolve into what looks like blood, you can be sure it is definitely a case of cat fleas. You might even notice the tiny black insects crawling or leaping about. It is critical that you send your cat for a flea treatment immediately, as you need to get rid of cat flea problems as fast as you can.


Your vet will be able to offer easy solutions for cat flea treatment. "Advantage" is one product that will help get rid of the cat flea problem without having to give your cat a bath in insecticidal solutions (also available at your veterinarian). The Advantage cat flea treatment is a spot-on treatment. The pet owner places a drop of the solution onto your cat's skin in between its shoulder blades. Reapply at scheduled intervals to ensure that all fleas are killed. That’s it! "Frontline" is another popular choice for spot-on treatments.


Natural options for cat flea treatment exist as well. However, these are far more painstaking than spot-on treatments. Washing your pet with 1 - 2 rounds of soapy water and then combing (once it is dry) with a fine-toothed flea comb can help get rid of cat flea eggs, larvae and mature insects from your cat's fur. You’ll probably have to comb your cat every night for several in order for the cat flea treatment to be effective. Wiping a lemon-juice repellent on your cat's fur can help to remove any cat flea hitchhikers on your kitty, though you’ll still have to remove the eggs and larvae by hand.


Whichever treatment you choose, for the cat flea treatment to be effective, you’ll need to thoroughly vacuum your home and steam-clean all upholstery as well. Wash all bedding, throws, or blankets the cat is in contact with in hot, soapy water. Secure the vacuum bag in a plastic bag before throwing it into the outside garbage bin.


Prevention is worth a pound of cure. You can try these natural remedies to get rid of cat flea worries before the pests invade your pet. Feed your cat garlic in its meal and add a dash of apple cider vinegar to its water. If it doesn't want to drink it, then just use the apple cider vinegar as a spray to deter fleas by misting your pet every now and then.


To get cat care information, click http://www.My-Pet-Cat-Page.com

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_143299_54.html

http://www.My-Pet-Cat.com

The Best Product For Fleas In Cats And Dogs

Author: Thierry babineaux

One of the biggest problems in pets is that of fleas. The best way to tackle this menace is through proper pet health care. Whether you have a dog or a cat, fleas will get attracted and this means trouble.



Dogs as well as cats are prone to diseases caused by fleas. Fleas can infest dogs and cats with ease as they can transfer from one dog to another. Fleas can't fly, they can only jump, which they do very well from one animal to another. The bad news is that flea bite can lead to itching and your dog will have to spend most of his time try to get rid of itching. For some dogs, excessive itching can lead to inflammation, redness of skin, hair-loss, and even secondary skin infections. The best way to fight flea bites is to get your dog the best pet health care. You can alternatively use Fronline spot on, which is a great treatment for dogs as well as cats. The salient point of Fronline spot on is that it will provide long-term protection for your dog or cat.



Fleas are small insects that can cause a great deal of problem to your cat or dog. They normally thrive anywhere from 65-80 degrees temperature and at a humidity level of at least 75-85%. Hence, you will find fleas almost in every environment, any country except maybe the far Lapland or the Antarctic.



Fronline spot on contains fipronil, which is a phenylpyrazole and it is licensed for daily use in the form of veterinary medicine. Fipronil used in Fronline spot on is not at all an organo-phosphate compound. Fleas have always troubled dogs and cats and sometimes the experience can become extremely frustrating for you as well. You would even start thinking that the fleas can't be removed but the truth is that with good pet health care and the regular use of Fronline spot on, you can provide your dog with relief from fleas.



The working of the Fronline spot on is quite simple. Simply part the hair on back of cat/dogs neck and squeeze contents of pipette onto the area. The moment it is in direct contact with the fleas, it will kill the parasite within a period of 24 hours and the good part is the fleas will not bite or sting your dog or cat. You can apply Fronline spot on at the back of the neck of your dog or cat. The active ingredient in Fronline spot on called fipronil will dissolve with ease into the skin of your dog or cat and even the coat. Within 24 hours, it will disperse over the entire body of your dog and at the same time focus on sebaceous glands. As a result, it's overall effect is powerful.



Officially classified as a type of NFA-VPS medicine, Fronline spot on is considered a non-food animal medicine, which can be sold by pharmacies. You will not need any clinical assessmentsof your dog before using the medicine and its use will keep fleas away from your cat.

Fleas are always a major issue with cats and dogs, one of the best flea treatments out there isFrontline spot on, why not try some today and see the difference it makes in pet health, it is also available online.

Article Source: http://www.articlealley.com/article_1003733_3.html

The Important Difference Between Dog & Cat Flea Products

Even though fleas are a common cat concern, regular preventive treatment can stave off these disease-carrying pests. However, when you have both cats and dogs in your home, it's important to understand that the treatment you use on your dog can be harmful if used on your cat.

The flea preventives we recommend for cats include ingredients that eliminate adult fleas (insecticides) and either Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) or Insect Development Inhibitors (IDIs), which prevent juvenile fleas from developing into biting adults. IGRs and IDIs act on receptors that are present only in insects, not in mammals.

Some insecticides in dog flea treatments can be harmful to cats. Reading labels is important, and it can be tricky. For instance, a common insecticide made from chrysanthemums and found in over-the-counter cat flea preventives is called "pyrethrin." Most cats generally do not react to pyrethrins unless they are in a concentrated form, as they are in some dog flea preventives.

The name of another insecticide, however, that is found only in dog preventives and also in some environmental flea control items sounds a lot like the word pyrethrin, but is vastly different. This insecticide is called "permethrin" and it is actually a synthetic pyrethrin that is stronger, with a longer lasting effect.

Products containing permethrin, as well as other ingredients at higher concentrations and labeled "for dogs only," should never be used on cats. Cats have a very sensitive metabolism, so using these products on cats or even allowing your cat close contact with a dog that has been recently treated should be avoided.


the difference between dog and cat flea products

Even though fleas are a common cat concern, regular preventive treatment can stave off these disease-carrying pests. However, when you have both cats and dogs in your home, it's important to understand that the treatment you use on your dog can be harmful if used on your cat.

The flea preventives we recommend for cats include ingredients that eliminate adult fleas (insecticides) and either Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) or Insect Development Inhibitors (IDIs), which prevent juvenile fleas from developing into biting adults. IGRs and IDIs act on receptors that are present only in insects, not in mammals.

Some insecticides in dog flea treatments can be harmful to cats. Reading labels is important, and it can be tricky. For instance, a common insecticide made from chrysanthemums and found in over-the-counter cat flea preventives is called "pyrethrin." Most cats generally do not react to pyrethrins unless they are in a concentrated form, as they are in some dog flea preventives.

The name of another insecticide, however, that is found only in dog preventives and also in some environmental flea control items sounds a lot like the word pyrethrin, but is vastly different. This insecticide is called "permethrin" and it is actually a synthetic pyrethrin that is stronger, with a longer lasting effect.

Products containing permethrin, as well as other ingredients at higher concentrations and labeled "for dogs only," should never be used on cats. Cats have a very sensitive metabolism, so using these products on cats or even allowing your cat close contact with a dog that has been recently treated should be avoided.

1. Always read labels. Sometimes labels are written in a confusing way or may be too small to read entirely. If there is any doubt of your understanding the label instructions, contact your veterinarian or the manufacturer. Be aware of age requirements and remember never use a product "for dogs only" on your cat.

2. Be cautious when using any flea preventive on senior cats or cats who are not at their peak of health. Your veterinarian may recommend the avoidance of any insecticides and using a flea comb or other non-chemical means. Consult your veterinarian for guidelines on use of flea and tick products on pregnant or nursing cats.

3. Never use a product with permethrin on your cat. Although these products have a wide margin of safety for dogs, they can be toxic to cats. Cats exposed to permethrin can develop tremors and/or seizures within hours of application. If you suspect your cat has been exposed to permethrin or other insecticides toxic to cats, see your veterinarian immediately.

4. Always observe your cat after applying any flea preventive. We firmly believe that using a cat-formulated flea preventive is the best guard against a flea problem. We recommend monthly topicals to our clients and offer several effective choices for cats.
If you witness unusual behavior, weakness, shakiness or any other behavior you are not sure of, contact your veterinarian.

5. When using an environmental spray or fogger, remove any cats (and other pets as well) from the premises for as long as the label states. Make sure all food and water dishes are put away and that food is unable to be exposed to the product. Make sure to air out the premises completely before letting any pets back into the treated area. If you do not understand the usage of an environmental flea control product, we recommend you contact the manufacturer or your veterinarian to explain it before you use it.


Source from http://www.drsfostersmith.com/pic/article_print.cfm?aid=1235

A Healthy Cat Knows What Tastes Good

As all cat owners know, a feline can be a wonderful addition to any family. One of the most basic aspects of cat ownership is proper health care for the cat. Health care for a cat encompasses a wide array of vaccine shots, flea protection, vet visits, medications, and even proper exercise. However, the most important aspect of cat health is also often overlooked. People spend hundereds of hours and thousands of dollars over the lifetime of a cat to keep it healthy, but most cat owners don’t pay nearly enough attention to the proper cat food.

The right cat food is absolutely essential to a healthy, happy cat. But what is the best cat food for your cat? While each cat will have slightly different nutritional needs, there are some general rules that must be considered when looking for cat food. First of all, cats (like their human owners) need a high quality diet. This means the best types of protein, fats, carbs, and the less preservatives and chemical additives, the better. Most of the research available online does not compare specific brands of cat food, as much as specific ingredients to feed your cat, and which to stay away from! Cats need a high protein diet.

Wild cats are very carnivorous, and cats derive a great deal of their nutritional needs from protein. House cats, while not wild, still have many of the same nutritional needs as their wild feline ancestors. So, the most important ingredient in any cat food is protein. Carbohydrates are also an important part of a cats diet, though not as important as protein. Cats really should derive the majority of their nutritional needs from protein, so cat foods that are high in carbohydrates may not necessarily be the best for them. Interestingly enough, many of the premium brands of cat food, such as Eukanuba and Innova offer exactly what most cats need, and aren’t necessarily more expensive in the long run. This is because high end cat foods need a smaller serving amount than the low end cat foods to give a cat all the nutrients they need to be satisfied and healthy.

When comparing a premium brand such as Eukanuba, to a lower cost brand such as Purina, the cost difference for the recommended serving size is only a nickel a day. Furthermore, because a cat will eat less of the high end cat food, their waste will be reduced. This can cut down on the frequency of litter replacement and litter box related chores. Another aspect of cat food to be considered is the quality of the protein in the food. Because of the way many pet food companies describe the meat in the food, it can be difficult to figure out exactly what the difference between “chicken flavored”, and “chicken dinner” is.

Food that contains “chicken meal” can only be made from the skin, flesh, and bones only. This is really the best type of protein for a cat. Food that has “meat byproducts” can contain nearly any animal parts, and are of lower quality than “chicken meal”. Food that is “chicken flavored” only has to taste like chicken, but may not contain any animal meat at all. Also, chicken is generally better than beef for cats. And it goes without saying, preservatives, as well as artificial colors, should be avoided whenever possible. Although specific research is lacking on this subject, we do know that preservatives and artificial colors can have a negative impact on human health. It is only logical that cats will also be negatively affected by artificial colors and preservatives in their cat food.

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Information on Cat-Scratch Disease

By: peterhutch Cat scratch disease (CSD) is a bacterial disease caused by Bartonella henselae. Most people with CSD have been bitten or scratched by a cat and developed a mild infection at the point of injury. Lymph nodes, especially those around the head, neck, and upper limbs, become swollen. Additionally, a person with CSD may experience fever, headache, fatigue, and a poor appetite. Rare complications of B. henselae infection are bacillary angiomatosis and Parinaud's oculolandular syndrome. CSD is a self-limiting disorder with an excellent prognosis, even in patients with profound manifestations. Among healthy individuals, the condition usually resolves spontaneously over 2-5 months with rare permanent sequelae. However, immunocompromised patients may experience a dramatic and potentially life-threatening course of disease. Infected cats carry the bacteria in their blood. Research so far has failed to show the growth of Bartonella henselae in cat saliva. It is thought that cats spread the infection to humans by contaminating their own saliva or nails with blood. The infected blood then enters the human body through a cat scratch, bite, or even a lick if there open skin. Sometimes, yes, cats can spread B. henselae to people. Most people get CSD from cat bites and scratches. Kittens are more likely to be infected and to pass the bacterium to people. About 40% of cats carry B. henselae at some time in their lives. Cats that carry B. henselae do not show any signs of illness; therefore, you cannot tell which cats can spread the disease to you. People with immunocompromised conditions, such as those undergoing immunosuppressive treatments for cancer, organ transplant patients, and people with HIV/AIDS, are more likely than others to have complications of CSD. Although B. henselae has been found in fleas, so far there is no evidence that a bite from an infected flea can give you CSD. Cat scratch fever presents with tender regional lymphadenopathy, sterile suppurative papules at the site of inoculation, slight fever, headache, chills, backache, abdominal pain, malaise, alteration of mental status, and convulsions. It may take 7 to 14 days, or as long as two months, before symptoms appear. Most cases are benign and self-limiting, but lymphadenopathy may persist for several months after other symptoms disappear. The prognosis is generally favorable. In temperate climates, most cases occur in fall and winter. The disease usually resolves spontaneously, with or without treatment, in one month. In immunocompromised patients more severe complications sometimes occur. Cat scratch disease is caused by Bartonella henselae. The disease is spread through contact with an infected cat (a bite or scratch), or contact with cat saliva on broken skin or the white of the eye. About 2 - 3 weeks after becoming infection, lymph nodes swelling (lymphadenopathy) occurs near the site of the scratch or bite. Occasionally, an infected lymph node may form a tunnel (fistula) through the skin and drain. Cat scratch disease is a common cause of chronic lymph node swelling in children. A blister or sore, with or without pus or fluid, often shows up on the skin at the place where the bacteria entered the body. Within 2 weeks, the lymph glands nearby usually become swollen and tender. In most children and adolescents, swollen glands are the main symptom. Adults often have other symptoms such as low fever, tiredness, headache, and loss of appetite. About 5% of persons with cat-scratch disease develop irreversible retinitis (inflammation of the retina of the eye) or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). Persons with weakened immune systems can become more seriously ill. Article source: Information on Cat-Scratch Disease About: Read about Home Remedies. Also read about Gifts for Girlfriend, Gifts for Her, Gifts for Boyfriend, Gifts for Him and Acne cure, Acne Treatment and Acne Remedies

Useful Tips On Cat Flea Treatment

By: Ras Reed This article on cat flea treatment is written for all cat owners and lovers who desire to get rid of fleas on their cats. This task is without argument the most daunting of all the work that pet owners have to contend with . The reason is because it is tough to get rid of these unwanted invitees on your cats. But the good news is that there are various cat flea treatments out there that you can use nowadays and unravel the difficulty. The first thing I advocate you to do before going out to pay money for any of the cat flea treatment in the market and the ones you will be exposed to here is the need to go to see your veterinary doctor. I hope you will not be like numerous folks out there. They don't think that seeing a vet is compulsory. This is wrong. You know why? Your cat is special and so, you must be extremely wary of whatsoever you are going to put on his body. A good and reliable veterinary doctor will help you ascertain the best flea treatment for your cat. At this instant, let us look at some of the treatments you can use to do away with these unwanted invitees from your cats and house. The best cat flea treatment for your cat should be determined by three factors. These are the general physical condition, age and weight of your cat. Thus, have this at the back of your mind when buying products to employ. The use of cat flea shampoos and dips is highly suggested as a method of getting rid of fleas from your pet. But this is easier said than done as you and I are aware that it is demanding to give a cat a bath. Make certain that you employ a decent and dependable medicated flea shampoo. Nevertheless I must let you know that this is not a lasting solution to the difficulty. On the other hand, a flea dip is a strong chemical rinse that you can use to eliminate fleas, mites and ticks. You are informed to only take advantage of this means if your cat is plagued with mites. This way can last for about two weeks when administered rightly. Another short-term solution is powders and sprays. This treatment lasts for about 7 days and they are easier to avail yourself of. You can take a crack at this out today and see the outcome. Not many human beings are conversant in the usefulness of flea collars in getting rid of fleas from cats and residences. It works by emitting a toxic gas that kills fleas. This toxic gas works in the head and neck of your cat. But this method is not recommended for outdoor cats. Article source: Useful Tips On Cat Flea Treatment About: Ras Reed presents more interesting fleas control information such as Getting Rid Of Ants as well as Get Rid Of Fleas on his website.

Allergies In Cats - The Basics

By: Donovan Baldwin

Just like humans a common health problem in cats is allergy. It's strange that we always worry about humans being allergic to cats, but so seldom hear about what cats are allergic to!

In this way, cats aren't that much different from humans. Some foreign substance, commonly referred to as an allergen or antigen, triggers a situation in which the cat's immune system goes into hyper drive and produces symptoms of an allergic condition.

When a cat is allergic to something, common indications will be itchy skin, coughing and/or sneezing in the case of a respiratory problem, or vomiting or diarrhea in the case of a digestive allergy.

Allergies in cats seem to fall into these major categories. Allergies to fleas, foods, things inhaled, or something they have come in contact with.

Contact allergies generally result in a fairly localized reaction on the skin. The cat may scratch a lot and/or there may be an indication of irritation at the place of contact. Most common causes of contact allergies in cats would obviously be items with which they come in close contact such as flea collars, bedding, toys, etc. The simplest cure is to remove the contact. Take the collar off or change the bedding, for example. If the irritation persists, or if you still need effective flea control, consult with your veterinarian.

Some cats may also experience allergic reactions to certain plastics and/or metals. If you suspect this in your cat, you may wish to change to a ceramic or glass feeding bowl. Another problem which may mimic a contact allergy can occur if you simply do not rinse your cat carefully and completely after its bath. Residual shampoo or soap on the skin can cause dermatitis which can be mistaken for an allergic reaction.

Happily, contact allergies in cats are the least common type.

Flea allergies, on the other hand, are very common in cats. Any normal cat will commonly experience irritation from flea bites, but a cat with a genuine flea allergy will have a more severe itching reaction to the flea's saliva. A normal cat may simply bite or scratch for a while and then go on to other things, but a cat with a flea allergy may scratch, chew, and worry at the spot until large amounts of fur are lost. This constant attempt to relieve the maddening itch or irritation may result in open sores which can add the risk of infection to the allergy's list of evils. In most cats, the most common area to be affected is going to be on the back just before the tail. The cat may also create spots of sores or scabs on the neck and head. Inhalant types of allergies (atopy) are even more common cat allergies than flea and contact allergies! In fact, this type of allergy is probably the most common allergic problem in cats. It is possible that your cat may be allergic to the exact same allergens that you are! Tree pollens, grass pollens, and weed pollens along with the rest of the items we humans fear; mold, mildew, dust mites, and dust itself can all trigger allergic reactions in both cats and the humans they have trained to tend them.

A big difference between humans and cats, however is that while humans will most commonly react to inhaled allergens by sneezing or coughing, a cat will more commonly react by scratching an itch caused by those same allergens. Unlike a contact allergy, the cat's reaction to inhaled allergens will be a general itching of the skin as opposed to a severe reaction at a specific spot. If your cat seems to be scratching a lot and it doesn't appear to be local, as in reaction to a flea collar for example, there is a good chance that he or she is experiencing a reaction to some inhaled substance.

As in humans, true food allergies in cats can be extremely difficult to pinpoint. One reason is that they commonly demonstrate many of the symptoms of distress seen in the other groups. True food allergies in cats can cause itching and/or respiratory problems. Additionally, true food allergies can cause digestive difficulties as can other illnesses or toxic substances. In cats, food allergies are usually not present from birth, but are developed after long exposure to foods that have been eaten for long periods. Most food allergies will center around the type of protein common in the cat's diet, such as beef, pork, poultry, or lamb. Simply eliminating that type of protein by changing to another type of food will usually take care of the problem.

There are two difficult points for the cat owner when they begin to detect signs that lead them to believe that their cat may have an allergy.

1. The cat may actually be reacting to an irritant, rather than an allergen, and

2. The symptoms may be the result of some other condition, possibly one more dangerous.

For example, a flea infestation may cause flea bites which will itch and the cat will scratch. This is normal. You would scratch too, and extensively, if fleas were munching on you! However, if your cat is allergic to the flea's saliva, they will actually inflict damage on themselves in an attempt to relieve themselves of the intensified itch. However, the itch could be, as pointed out, the result of a food allergy, a contact allergy, or some undiagnosed medical condition such as a fungal infection (perhaps caused by ringworm, for example), mange, or some other type of skin infection which might have been caused by bacteria.

While a little astute detective work on the part of the pet owner may often alleviate the problem, only the veterinarian will usually be able to tell for sure what the cause and effect may actually beand how to best deal with the situation. However, the vet does not live with your cat, so it is important to note carefully what the symptoms are, when they began, how they have progressed, what steps you have already taken, and what happened as a result of those steps. All of this information will help your vet in getting to the truth behind the apparent allergy in your cat. Your cat's veterinarian will also have diagnostic tools at his or her disposal for getting at the cause of your pet's apparently "allergic" reactions.

Article source: Allergies In Cats - The Basics



About: Donovan Baldwin is a Texas writer. He is a University of West Florida alumnus, a member of Mensa, and is retired from the U. S. Army. Learn more about caring for your cat at http://cat-and-kitten.com/