Question:
In a recent column, you expressed concern that many veterinarians are advising monthly flea-control drugs for dogs and cats -- for life. Would you expand on this subject as to the effects if the treatment is discontinued after a number of years?I have two 11-year-old indoor cats. One of them is stressed for other reasons, and I would love to discontinue the treatment for her, especially. Is it possible that after some years there is something like an immunity to fleas?.
I.W.B., Fort Myers, FL Dec 24, 2006
Answer:
The drug companies and suppliers of flea-prevention products reason that the risks of these drugs to cats and dogs are less than the risks posed by the fleas. Aside from easily treatable flea-bite skin hypersensitivity, a few fleas aren't going to harm your cat's endocrine, immune and nervous systems, and they won't kill your cat. But any one of these commercial products certainly could.Check my Web site at http://twobitdog.com/DrFox/Preventing-Fleas-Ticks-Mosquitoes for safe flea-control measures. At the top of the list is a daily pinch of brewer's yeast in the food and daily flea-comb checks. Once a week, sprinkle Borax on carpets and floors where cats rest, then vacuum thoroughly the next day. The best preventive is to never let your cat roam free outdoors.
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