flea problem

[cimason]

i need to know what to do my calio cat is loaded with fleas i need to know what to do i on a low income so i can't buy lot of stuff i like to buy some sort of flea shampoo since she don't mind baths help me please :confused:

[Tany]

Hi Cimason

I use Frontline drops from the vet. I don't know if you can get them in USA but athough they might be a more expensive than the shampoos, it works out cheaper in the long run. The drops last a month and you get 3 cabsules so one purchase lasts for 3 months on one cat. It kills the fleas on the cat and protects against any new ones jumping on (if they do they won't last long!) It's better for the cat as it's only a quick treatment once a month. If you have any other cats they need the treatment too!

You will need to get a carpet spray or powder for your house to use on all the places calio goes and wash all her bedding etc. These you can get from a pet store as long as they are safe for the cat.

If there are alot of fleas, they can give your cat worms too so check round her bum to see if there are any "seseme seed" like bits there. If so you will need to get a worming tablet from your vets. I get a small one which covers all worms in one go.

I know you say you haven't alot of money but if you leave the fleas they can cause alot more infections for the skin so it will cost more in the long run on vet antibotics etc as well as not giving the best treatment for her health.

Recommended Flea shampoos do work but you need to wash her frequently as the fleas will most certantly be in the house, on her bedding etc and will just jump back on her. Also becareful where you get the shampoo! I have never used them but i friend of mind brought one from her supermarket and it burnt the cat's skin!!!!!!! If you are going to use a shampoo, i would get one recommended by your vet.
Hope this helps
Tanx

[NiteRose]

When my kitties got fleas I tried a few shampoo's and honestly they did nothing. I used Frontline (I'm in the US, you can get it from your vet). It is not very cheap, but you do get a three month supply and it worked great. Keep in mind that if your letting your cat outside your going to have to use it during all of "Flea season". Also frontline makes two different kinds, one is just for fleas and the other is flea and tick, if your cat goes outdoors I would suggest you get the flea and tick one.

Also my vet told me and my husband to vacuum everywhere and often.

[rosybug]

Frontline is unbeatable and it is cheaper in the long run. I use it about 6 month out of the year. check out some pet medicine retailers on the net . You might get it cheaper there then at your vets.

[Squawksx3]

I also use Frontline for both cats and dogs.. and replaced my carpets with tile ;) . I understand with the money situation, but found that flea shampoo's didn't work. You may want to try a Tea Tree shampoo to see if it helps. Good luck.