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This article explains how to choose a safe shampoo to get rid of fleas and ticks on your cat. It talks about why you must be careful with chemicals and gives tips for a successful bath time.

Keeping Your Cat Safe from Fleas and Ticks

Finding a flea or a tick on your cat can be a scary moment. These tiny pests make your cat itchy and can even make them sick. You might want to grab the first bottle of medicated soap you see but you have to be very careful. In my opinion picking the right cat flea and tick shampoo is the most important part of grooming. Using the wrong one can be very dangerous for your feline friend.

Cats have very sensitive skin and they lick their fur all the time. This means whatever you put on their coat will end up in their mouth. Because of this you should always look for shampoos made specifically for cats. In this article I will share my advice on how to find a safe shampoo and how to use it correctly.

Why You Must Avoid Dog Flea Shampoos

The most important rule is to never use a dog flea shampoo on a cat. Many products made for dogs use a chemical called Permethrin.

• Permethrin is Toxic to Cats

  While this chemical is fine for dogs it is like poison to cats. It can cause them to shake or have trouble moving.

• Essential Oil Risks

  Some natural dog soaps use peppermint or clove oil. These can hurt a cat’s liver.

• Strong Chemicals

  Cats have thinner skin than dogs so harsh chemicals soak into their bodies much faster.

What to Look For in a Good Cat Shampoo

When you are shopping you want to find a product that is tough on bugs but gentle on your pet. Here are the things I look for on the label.

How to Give a Flea Bath Successfully

Most cats do not like water so giving a flea bath can be tricky. Here is a simple way to do it without too much stress.

1. Start with a Dry Neck

   Before you get the cat wet put a ring of shampoo around their neck. This stops the fleas from running up to the cat's head and ears to hide.

2. Use Lukewarm Water

   The water should feel just right not too hot and not too cold. Use a gentle spray or a cup to wet your cat.

3. Lather and Wait

   Rub the shampoo in well. Most flea soaps need to stay on the fur for 5 to 10 minutes to work. You can pet your cat or give them a treat to keep them calm.

4. Rinse Very Well

   This is the most important step. You must wash away every bit of soap so the cat does not lick it off later.

5. Dry with a Big Towel

   Wrap your cat in a warm towel right away. This helps them feel safe and keeps them from getting a chill.

My Advice for a Flea Free Home

In my opinion a shampoo is just the first step. Fleas love to hide in your carpets and your cat’s bed. If you only wash the cat the fleas will just jump back on them the next day.

I suggest washing your cat’s bedding in hot water. You should also vacuum your floors every day while you are fighting a flea problem. If the fleas are really bad you should talk to a vet about a medicine that goes on the back of the cat's neck. These often work better than shampoo alone and last for a whole month.

Common Questions About Flea Shampoos

Can I use flea shampoo on a kitten

Most flea shampoos are only for cats older than 12 weeks. For tiny kittens it is safer to use a flea comb and some warm water with a tiny drop of dish soap.

How often can I wash my cat with flea shampoo

You should not use it more than once a week. Using it too much can make their skin very dry and sore.

Does flea shampoo kill the eggs

Many shampoos only kill the adult fleas. This is why you have to clean your house and keep checking your cat for new bugs.

What if my cat hates baths

If a bath is impossible you can try flea powders or foams that do not need water. You can also use a flea comb to pick the bugs out by hand.

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