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Fleas The cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis, is the most common ectoparasite of cats. When the female flea lays her eggs, they eventually hatch into larvae. The larvae pupate by spinning a cocoon and may remain in this stage for up to 140 days. Emergence occurs when ideal environmental conditions develop. In humid, warm environments, the life cycle may be completed every 2-4 weeks. When all the life stages of the flea are considered as a single population, the egg comprises 50% of the total, leaving the larvae at 35%, the pupae at 10%, and the adult flea at only 5%. As such, effective flea control programs usually focus on control of juvenile (pre-emergent) fleas, as well as the relatively small population of adults. In most cases, flea infestation is readily diagnosed by the presence of fleas crawling through the pet's haircoat. Occasionally, owners may first notice the problem when entering the home after the pet has been removed for some time; fleas seeking a food source will bite the pet and, perhaps, humans. Heavily parasitised cats may develop anemia due to blood loss. Flea-allergy dermatitis and tapeworms are other problems associated with flea infestation. The presence of flea faeces (flea dirt) indicates flea infestation. This may be demonstrated by combing the dark material out of the pet's haircoat and onto a moistened paper towel. The red stain of resuspended digested blood can be easily visualized. Papulocrusting lesions of miliary dermatitis are often found on the tailhead, and around the neck of flea-allergic cats. Treatment of this problem involves treating both the environment and the animal. We use Frontline, Advantage and Stronghold for treating animals and recommend Acclaim, Fleeguard and Indorex for treating the environment. The use of flea collars, combs, and shampoos as the sole agents fro treating fleas is not recommended. They do not tend be as effective as the prescription insecticides and owners using these products should not have a high expectation of success. Successful flea control can be achieved safely with careful attention to the products used. Our clients are welcome to phone for advice if required. |
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