Cats are incredible companions that offer unconditional love to their caregivers. In most cases, they aren’t referred to as merely pets but part of an owner’s family. In that case, the keepers always strive to offer better care for their feline.
However, tick and flea infestations are common with these pets. Most people may believe that indoor cats aren’t at risk of attracting these parasites, but in truth, they can. This can happen if one of the family members carries such insects into the house. Also, visiting animals that may be having these pests can drop them around the property, causing a spread in your home.
For most people, seeing their furry friend suffer from the effects of flea or tick infestation can be devastating. Therefore, all owners need to consider preventative strategies that could help control the spread of these parasites. For instance, you could bathe your cat regularly and clean their beddings frequently. Also, you could get a cat flea collar or limit your pet’s interaction with stray animals.
Health Effects Of Ticks And Fleas On Cats
It may be easy to know if your cat has ticks or fleas by checking their fur regularly. In most cases, you might spot these parasites or their eggs. However, if you can’t find either, check for signs like pale gums, irritated skin, or hair loss. Also, behaviours like excessive scratching and severe skin biting or licking may indicate the presence of these organisms.
In most instances, professionals advise proper prevention as you might help avoid flea and tick attacks on your cat. However, if they’ve already attracted these pests, it’s recommendable to talk to a feline specialist before treating your pet with any sprays, tablets, applicants, or powders.
Reporting to a vet the moment you notice any signs of tick or flea infestation is vital. This could prevent any adverse effects or severe cat diseases. Some of the health complications your feline could develop due to lack of immediate treatment may be:
1. Lyme Disease
It’s believed that Lyme disease is one of the most common pest-transmitted illnesses in pets. Usually, this ailment is caused by ticks. These parasites carry a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi, and upon biting your cat, the microorganisms spread in the feline’s body, causing the said disease.
Some of the signs of this condition may include sensitivity to touch, difficulty in breathing, loss of appetite, and fever. If you observe these signs, it’s essential to handle the cat with care. It’s because the pet could transmit this disease to you if caution isn’t applied.
Also, ensure you visit the veterinarian immediately because if left untreated, the disease could cause severe tissue damage in the cat’s body. Also, there’s the risk of kidney failure if corrective measures aren’t taken appropriately.
2. Cat Anaemia
Cat anaemia is another health complication that may develop in felines after an attack by fleas or ticks. In most cases, this disease could be a result of numerous bites from pests. Like human beings, it’s believed that anaemia in cats occurs when the body lacks enough red blood cells. These components are responsible for oxygen transportation from the lungs to various parts of the body. If this function is hindered by this illness, severe effects may occur.
Some of the symptoms of this disease in felines may be lethargy, appetite loss, pale gums, high water intake, increased breathing rates, and convulsions. If you see your cat exhibiting such signs, it’s advisable to seek medical treatment immediately to avoid serious effects.
3. Flea Allergy Dermatitis
Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is a reaction believed to result from flea saliva when the parasite bites a pet. Usually, cats are said to be very sensitive to this. Therefore, it may irritate their skin when the saliva enters the feline’s body, causing severe scratching, biting, chewing, or licking.
It’s essential to seek treatment immediately after these signs are noticed on a cat. Otherwise, the scratching could result in fur loss and rashes on the belly, back, or hind legs. Additionally, skin infections might also happen, leading to other severe secondary issues such as open sores or wounds with seeping discharge.
It’s advisable to check your cat for any signs of FAD regularly to avoid such profound effects. Before symptoms advance, you can recognize this condition by feeling their skin. If you identify small bumps that look like scabs and notice some behaviours mentioned above, it’s advisable to seek medical treatment immediately.
Conclusion
It’s believed that any cat can suffer from flea and tick attacks if the owner doesn’t implement preventative measures. Some of the effects caused by bites from these parasites could be itching, lethargy, weakness, unrest, or excessive skin biting, chewing, and licking. Cat owners are advised to seek medical attention immediately when they notice such symptoms. Failure to do so may cause serious health complications to your pet.
Visit our Shop for top quality cat toys and cat lover products!
