It is widely believed that fleas prefer cats to dogs. While this may be true, this doesn’t mean cats are the only animals to get infestations—it just means they are more likely to get them. If you have found that your cat has fleas, you should take action immediately. Sometimes having a better understanding of these insects can better equip you to get rid of them. Read on to learn more!
Of the more than 2,000 species of fleas in the world, the most common kind is referred to as the “cat flea.” Don’t be misled by the name—cat fleas will inhabit any other animal in addition to cats. However, they are most commonly found on cats.
Adult fleas are about 2.5mm long and are dark in color. They have no legs, but they can jump large distances. This is how they can infest large animals or go from host to host.
The flea life cycle is a unique one. They are normal in that the adults lay eggs, and these eggs hatch into larvae and eventually become adults. However, fleas have the ability to pause their development. Should the conditions they are in not permit them to grow safely, they will slow down their process until the conditions are better.
Females can drink as much as 15 times their body weight and will begin laying eggs within 48 hours of their first feed. They can lay as many as 2,000 eggs in their lifetime with about 40 to 50 per day. This is how flea infestations grow so rapidly and in large amounts.
Why Fleas Are Dangerous
Fleas impose risks on cats and humans alike aside from just irritating bites. They can cause skin rashes. However, they can also transmit diseases. Fleas carry bacteria that can be transmitted to cats and humans.
Additionally, a lot of fleas can carry tapeworms. This is particularly dangerous for cats because cats groom themselves often. If they have fleas, it is likely that they will ingest them. The tapeworms they are carrying can grow within their intestines, giving you yet another issue to resolve.
These tapeworms can also be transmitted to humans—especially children.
Elderly cats, kittens, or cats that are sick are also at risk for anemia if they get fleas. Underdeveloped or weakened immune systems are more susceptible to extreme blood loss. A large infestation on a very small or weak cat can be very serious.
One of the best ways to eliminate fleas is to catch the problem before it starts. Many experts say you should focus on prevention before you even have a problem. Effective prevention can save you the headache of trying to get rid of an infestation.
Try to limit your cat’s outdoor exposure. For most cats, this shouldn’t be an issue; most house cats prefer to stay indoors anyway. However, some pet owners have outdoor cats. Give them their time outside, but try to keep them inside longer.
Bathe your cat regularly. This can be tough to do, as most cats prefer to stay dry, but it’s a necessary evil—especially if your cat likes to go outside.
Invest in a flea comb. Buying a comb is a simple way to ensure no fleas are hiding in your cat’s fur. Along with bathing, regular combing will help to keep your cat clean. Comb them with a bowl of warm, soapy water nearby so you can kill any fleas you catch.