Jan 23, 2024
It is a common notion that fleas and ticks become inactive in colder seasons. This often leads to cat parents believing that their cats do not need flea and tick protection in the winter season. However, continuing flea and tick protection for cats year-round is important. While it is true that fleas and ticks may be less active during colder months, they still pose a threat to your cat's health in every season of the year.
This blog will discuss the significance of protecting cats against flea and tick infestations. We will also discuss why you should provide your cats with flea and tick treatments all year. So, without further ado, let's get started.
The first and foremost reason for continuing flea and tick treatment is to protect your cats from the trouble caused by fleas and ticks. These tiny pests can cause a variety of discomforts, such as itching, skin irritation, and other allergic reactions. Furthermore, it may also lead to fur loss and the development of hot spots on the cat's skin. This can significantly affect your cat's quality of life and overall well-being.
Therefore, it is crucial to use flea and tick treatments consistently to ensure your cat remains protected and healthy throughout the year.
Another reason to get your cat treated with flea and tick treatment is that fleas and ticks also survive in cold conditions. Studies have confirmed that ticks remain active at 4 degrees Celsius and above temperatures. Furthermore, some fleas can survive in temperatures as low as 7 degrees Celsius. The flea pupae can also remain dormant for over a year and become active when the temperature is ideal. So, if your cat goes out in the cold, the chances of getting ticks, fleas and flea pupae are still significant. Generally, most people keep their homes warm throughout the winter. So, once your cat returns home, the picked-up fleas and ticks are exposed to their ideal temperature for growth and reproduction. This leads to infestation of your pets and home.
This can be avoided by using flea and tick treatment throughout the year, saving your pet and home from getting infested.
The final and most important reason to protect your cats from fleas and ticks throughout the year is that fleas and ticks are vectors for various diseases. These parasites can transmit myriad diseases, causing severe health consequences to your cat.
Commonly caused diseases in cats due to flea infestation include:
On the other hand, ticks can transmit even severe diseases, such as:
Using appropriate flea and tick treatment consistently can significantly reduce the risk of your cat contracting these diseases and ensure their overall health and well-being.
Not protecting your cat from fleas and ticks throughout the year means playing a deadly gamble. Even if the chances of getting flea and tick infections are significantly lower during unfavorable seasons as compared to hot weather, it is still possible for your cat to get infested with fleas and ticks.
Moreover, fleas and ticks can survive in warm indoor environments, such as your home, and can still threaten your cat's health. Therefore, it is crucial to continue using flea and tick protection year-round to ensure the well-being of your feline companion.
It is best to consult your vet when looking for flea and tick protection for your cat. They can suggest the most effective and safe treatment options based on your cat's breed, weight and age.
Some common treatment options include topical treatments, oral formulas, and collars. Following the recommended dosage and application instructions is important to ensure maximum effectiveness.
The following are some of the most trusted cat flea and tick treatments available on the market:
1] Frontline Plus - Frontline Plus is an excellent flea and tick treatment for cats and kittens over 8 weeks. This potent formula treats and prevents fleas, ticks, and chewing lice in cats.
2] NexGard Combo - NexGard Combo is a monthly multi-spectrum topical treatment for cats. The product is effectively treats both external and internal parasites.
3] Seresto Cat Collar - Seresto collar for Cats is an amazingly designed flea collar that repels and treats fleas for up to 8 months.
4] Effipro Duo Spot-on - Effipro DUO Spot-on is a proper and potent flea and tick control solution made only for cats.
5] Bravecto Plus Cats - Bravecto Plus is a breakthrough in cat parasite protection. It kills adult fleas and controls flea infestations as well as treats and prevents tick infestations for 2 months.
Fleas and ticks pose a significant threat throughout the year, not just during the warmer months. Taking precautions and consistently using preventive measures to protect your cat from these parasites is crucial.
Don't gamble and leave your cat vulnerable to flea and tick infestations. Remember, prevention is always better than treatment when it comes to your furry friend's health and well-being.
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