How to Control Feline Parasites Jonesboro GA

Feline parasites include fleas and ear mites as well as internal parasites like heartworm, round worms, and hook worms. In fact, many cats are infested with some type of internal parasite when they are born.

1. Look for fleas. Fleas are by common the most common feline parasite. Even indoor-only cats can get fleas, although theyre more common on cats that go outdoors. If you see any signs of fleas, which look like little black bugs, or flea droppings, which looks like black specks of dirt, in your cats fur, then your cat has fleas.
2. Treat the fleas. Even if you only see minor signs of fleas, be sure to treat them with a flea product right away, because fleas can reproduce rapidly. There is a range of flea control products available, including dips, shampoos, sprays, specially treated collars, or drops to place on the cats neck. Its important to apply flea products like neck drops by parting the hair so that the medication will reach the skin. Most flea products treat the cat for a month, so be sure to check again for signs of fleas and reapply the flea control product as necessary. If the infestation is bad enough you may also want to treat your carpets and other areas of your home with flea powder.
3. Avoid ticks. Like people, cats can pick up ticks from outdoors, especially in areas with tall grass or low brush that your cat may pass through. If possible, keep your cat from going into such areas. If you do notice a tick on your cat, use a pair of tweezers to grasp it as close to the head as possible, and then pull it off your cat. The key to tick control is to remove the tick as soon as possible. Collars and topical products are also available to prevent ticks from attaching themselves to your cat.
4. Check for internal parasites. Your vet can do a check for feline parasites, including internal parasites as well as fleas and ear mites. You may be asked to bring in a stool sample, or the veterinarian may take one in the office. The lab will check for a variety of internal parasites. Do not assume that because your cat looks healthy there are no parasites; this test is an important part of a yearly vet checkup. If your cat has internal parasites, the vet will be able to treat them. Deworming several times in the first year of your cats life may be necessary. If heartworm is a problem in your location, your vet may give your cat medication to prevent heartworm infection, which comes from mosquitoes.
5. Use medication as prescribed. If your vet prescribes medication to control feline parasites or another health issue, make sure to use them as directed. Many cats will not like the various forms of medication they are given, but they are necessary if you want your cat to be healthy.
6. Bring your cat in for yearly vet checkups. Just like people, cats should have an annual checkup whether they are sick or appear healthy. Otherwise, you may have no idea that your cat is infected with parasites. If your cat does appear sick, bring them to the vet right away, as it could be caused by intestinal parasites or a range of other health conditions.

Treating feline parasites as soon as discovered is imperative if you want your pet to lead a long and healthy life. The effects of feline parasites can range from trivial to serious health consequences which could even be fatal. Although most cats are either born with parasites or pick them up from outdoors, even older indoor cats can have feline parasites.

Click here to visit HowToDoThings.com