Just because your cat stays inside there are still health issues with fleas and mosquitos.

Spring is nearing most places and that means the insect population will be rebuilding. Your indoor cat is still at risk because fleas and mosquitos can come inside and infect kitty!

Both mosquitos and fleas can access your home when doors are open or hitching a ride with you or other animals. Veterinarians are reporting an increased incidence of flea and worm infections with indoor cats. Areas with a large mosquito problem must be on the alert and start treating your cat with natural insect repellants designed for animals.

Having self-closing screen doors hanging on the exit doors also helps keep the mosquitos outside. I live in a low risk area for mosquitos, have self-closing screen doors, and still will get several mosquitos in the house over the season. There is no perfect way to prevent them from flying into the house so treating your indoor cats is the best solution.

Fleas could be coming from your neighbor’s pets grooming on your doormat or many other possible methods to access your kitty. Besides treating your cat, you also have to treat areas in the home that the fleas may be living. All areas that your cat lays on are possible flea harborages and you should inspect. Small items can go in the washer and then put in a dryer set for high temperature and larger items may have to be steam cleaned.

Here are some tips to follow:

■Use a safe and effective flea product to prevent flea infestations. Consult your veterinarian for help in choosing the best product for your cat. Follow the directions on the label carefully when using a flea product. Do not use flea products not specifically labeled as being safe for cats. Many products that are safe for dogs are not safe for cats.

■Administer a monthly heartworm preventive medication to your cat year ‘round. Many of these products also provide some protection against roundworms and hookworm infections.

■Have your cat examined by your veterinarian on a regular basis.

■Have your cat’s feces examined periodically for parasites. This should be a microscopic examination performed by your veterinarian. It is possible to see adult roundworms or tapeworm segments in your cat’s feces. If you see worms in your cat’s feces, bring the worm to your veterinarian for identification.

One of the best solutions for your cat is improving its health with a proper cat diet and some natural immunity builders. A healthy cat can resist parasites, viruses, and bacteria far better and the diet is the key to success.

Posted on March 25, 2013 by claudew
By Claude West “The Cat Man”