You have an indoor cat. Fleas are not of your concern, right? Should they be? I mean, isn’t it impossible for indoors-only cats to get fleas? Well…drum roll, please….indoor cats are not immune from these pesky creatures. Certainly an indoor cat is less likely than an outdoor cat to become infested with fleas, but indoor cats can attract fleas, ticks and intestinal worms. How? Well, first of all, we must look to the athletic prowess of the flea. Small, yet mighty, an average flea can jump to Olympian heights of 100 times its own height! Yes, they are sneaky little buggers. As such, a flea can easily – and unknowingly – get into your home by jumping on your clothes when you are out and about outdoors. If it wants to hitch a ride, a flea will find a way. Think: your pants, socks or shoes. Beats the city bus any day of the week, and so much more convenient!
Further, if you have a dog, well, there goes the misconception about indoor cats having no flea issues. When Fido romps around outside, he will most likely attract a flea or two, bringing them inside and unknowingly introducing them to your cat. Plus, fleas are notorious for coming in through window screens or even through the tiniest of cracks in a door. Where there is a will, there is a way…and a flea!
Then, once a flea gets inside, he will find a way to jump onto your cat. After this flea enjoys a bit of a feast on your feline friend, he will then jump off and begin to lay HUNDREDS of eggs. (Did that get your attention???) These eggs will quickly hatch, leading to many, many, many hungry larvae, which will ultimately transform into adult fleas, ready to begin another vicious cycle.
Even if your cat is a good self-groomer, the fleas will remain unaffected. Fleas can grow and spread like wild fires. Additionally, they can lead to illness in your cat, such as tapeworm infections or anemia, as well as any skin problems. And, because they multiply quickly, they are difficult to treat. This is where a good conversation with your veterinarian is in order. You can avoid toxic chemicals to treat them and use good old soap and water to help kill those fleas on your cat. A flea comb with fine teeth is also recommended, when used in conjunction with the soap and water.
Be sure to check your cat daily for fleas and vacuum your carpets regularly to suck up the stray ones. It is highly advised to empty the vacuum cleaner bag or canister after each use, as fleas can reproduce inside the bag and then escape. They have no shame!
Be sure to consult your vet about the best options for flea treatment options and prevention measures.
Thanks to Gayle Hickam at petful.com for this helpful information.
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
