Fleas are the most common of all external feline parasites, and the consequences of infestation will be terribly uncomfortable for most cats and can be the source of deadly disease for some.
What happens if fleas go untreated in cats?
A severe flea infestation can kill a cat or kitten. Fleas can cause diseases and conditions such as anemia, Feline Homotrophic Mycoplasmosis (FHM), and plague, which, when left untreated, can cause death.
What should I do if my cat has fleas?
Comb your cat with a fine-toothed metal flea comb from head to tail several times a day. This will skim off adult fleas and their eggs and ease their itching. Then, dip the comb in a mixture of warm to hot water and liquid dish detergent to kill the fleas.
How long do fleas live on a cat?
On short-haired cats and dogs fleas survive an average of 8 days; they live longer on long-haired animals. The female flea begins laying eggs within 2 days of her first blood meal.
What happens if you pet a cat with fleas?
Reddened skin as a result of the bite itself and from the allergy, the flea saliva generates. Injuries and Infections in serious cases, injuries can be caused by you scratching the bites and these in turn can become infected, causing even more discomfort and other diseases.
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