CUSTOM CAT CARE FROM SLEEP-EAS-ZZ…

While the warmer months, known for bringing an onslaught of flea and tick problems, are nearly over, it is still important to protect your pets from pests. After all, being a pet owner comes with a responsibility to keep your dogs, cats and furry or feathered friends healthy and happy. With that in mind, we would like to help clear up any misconceptions regarding the dangers of fleas and ticks for your dogs and cats. Here are nine FAQs sure to help.

1. How do I know if my pet has fleas, before they start incessant scratching? Brush over your pet with a damp white sheet or paper towel. If there are any small dark spots, then you need to take action to get rid of the fleas.
2. Are fleas and ticks no longer a problem when summer ends? No. Lower temperatures do not equal the absence of pests. It is recommended that you still apply flea and tick control products until after extreme winter conditions become common.
3. Can the same flea products be used for both dogs and cats? No. Many of the products designed for dogs are harmful, and even fatal if used on your feline friends.
4. What is the best way to prevent fleas and ticks? Use monthly topicals to protect your pets from discomfort, prevent spreading and avoid possible infestation. Of course, using pest repellants and insecticides, medicated flea collars plus cleaning and fumigating their play areas often will also lower the chances of fleas and ticks.
5. What preventative measures can be taken for outdoor pets? If you have outdoor pets, or bring your pets outside to play, be sure that their area is free of leave piles, brush and tall grass. In addition, brush your pets thoroughly when they come back inside.
6. What problems are caused by fleas and ticks? Ticks transfer Lyme Disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Ehrilchios, to name a few. Fleas can cause tapeworms, hair loss due to the intense and frequent scratching done by the animal, skin irritation and even anemia in kittens and puppies. It should also be noted that people are susceptible to some of these problems due to being exposed to an animal that is carrying it.
7. I have heard that spot-on flea and tick control products can be dangerous. Is this true? Yes. The EPA released a warning in 2010 alerting pet owners to this fact. Along with the warning, there were marketing changes made requiring better labeling, clearer dosage guidelines and specific restrictions for some of the ingredients.
8. Are there breeds of dogs that are more susceptible to adverse side effects of pest control? Yes. Mixed breeds as well as the Chihuahuas, Shih Tzu, Miniature poodles, Pomeranians, Dachshund, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers and the Bichon Frise have the highest risks.
9. Are there any natural alternatives to medicated pest control items? Yes, there are quite a few options. Here are a few  suggestions from the American Holistic Veterinary Medicine Association to implement into your pet care routine:

• Fresh garlic and brewer’s yeast can be given to dogs and cats to prevent internal and external parasites. Talk to your vet to determine the proper amount for your pet.
• Essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, geranium, lemon grass and citronella work great as parasite deterrents. You will also want to talk to your vet to determine the proper dosage.
• Cedar oil can be used to eliminate fleas and ticks from the body of your pet.
• Use shampoos that contain D-limonene, natural citrus extract, as this will help eliminate fleas and ticks.
• Add a small amount of apple cider vinegar to your pet’s water to help prevent ticks.
• When taking your pets outside, many holistic veterinarians recommend applying eucalyptus and citronella oil to the pet’s collar or on a bandana to be worn by the pet. Also, it is not recommended to ever treat cats with a topical natural treatment!

The best way to protect your pets from pest is by being proactive. After all, you want your pets to happy and healthy for a long time. By using these preventatives, you can do just that. If you have more questions or concerns, talk to your vet or contact us here at Sleep Eas…ZZ , we’re glad to help!

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