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What are the symptoms of being bitten by fleas on a cat?
Fleas usually parasitize animals with higher body temperatures, as they are thermophilic. When a person is bitten by fleas on a cat, the skin will develop varying numbers of dot-like red rash spots, accompanied by itching. Cat owners should take precautions to externally deworm their cats, to avoid environmental contamination due to flea infestation and to prevent flea bites on humans.
Fleas prefer warm and humid seasons, so it's essential to protect cats and other pets against external parasites like fleas during these times. This can prevent flea bites on pet owners, which can cause symptoms like itching and raised spots.
Protecting cats against external parasites is simple. Just apply medication to areas of the cat's body that it can't lick, such as the head. However, it's crucial to apply the medication directly to the cat's skin, as applying it to large amounts of fur will significantly reduce its efficacy. Common medications include those containing selenium sulfide, fipronil, and other ingredients. It's recommended to purchase these from a pet hospital. If a cat is infected with fleas, the environment should also be thoroughly cleaned and treated with insecticides, as fleas can lay hundreds of eggs daily, contaminating the environment. Moreover, when the environment is suitable, hatched fleas can re-infect the cat or humans.
Fleas are just one of many common parasites. Cats may also contract lice, ticks, mites, and other parasites. It's advised to take preventive measures regularly, especially during warmer months. Cat owners should consider giving their cats external parasite protection once a month. Additionally, cats and their environments should be kept clean. Since cats are generally clean, it's recommended to bathe them every 15 to 30 days. The environment should be regularly cleaned and treated with insecticides, especially areas where cats live.