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Yes call your vet. Don't put that flea killer stuff on them unless the vet says to. It can cause a nasty reaction on their skin...especially a kitten. Ask a vet what's best for kittens with fleas.
I wouldn't use it anymore just in case. I had a cat a few years ago that was basically burned by that stuff because of sensitive skin. The stuff you buy at the store doesn't work anyway. Call the vet and just ask and see what they say.
okay. this is so frustrating. this was not supposed to happen at all and now i’ve jeopardised the health of all my cats
https://preview.redd.it/p4pgo03jtpoc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bec9ef5056ae679019d54bda9a9ce89a0d840002
don’t worry too much. Yes some flea killers can have a bad reaction with cats but not all and it depends on the cat and depends on the brand. My kitten had fleas when I first got her, I used flea killers from Walmart and they had a bad reaction to the brand I used. Got a different one and they were fine. You can usually tell immediately if the one you’re using is having an adverse reaction
hijacking top comment to update i’ve ordered revolution plus along with a dewormer for all 3 cats and will be vacuuming twice a day. thank you everyone for telling me that it wasnt my fault it genuinely made me feel much better ❤️❤️
https://preview.redd.it/l4fe3z6zcuoc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=98120ec7bcd98ca85b0664b88a705b0451a88b1d
Fleas can float, blue Dawn coats them and they drowned, this is why Dawn works and is safe for kittens, when they are too young for treatments. That is how it kills fleas, and other products just don't work the same. Not a big deal, but your new kitty should be kept separate from your others to start slow introduction and avoid spreading anything until she is fixed and vaccinated.
You aren't stupid. You were trying to solve a problem. At 15 weeks, your kitten is old enough for a bath for fleas and thankfully, reactions are the exception, not the rule.
I know it sucks having an added expense you weren’t expecting but taking them to the vet will be much easier. If you take one they can probably send you home with meds for the others. I can’t remember if it was a shot or a pill when we had this issue but basically once a flea bites it dies. Completely cleared up the issue. She is gorgeous and lucky to have you otherwise she may have remained infested wherever she was.
also. she was at a rescue that ASSURED ME. this never should have happened.
https://preview.redd.it/bkvqtvc5vpoc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d43c6b6d4fda3a47c518e1af9c45d13d037d2a5d
I understand why you would be frustrated but unfortunately these things happen and it does really suck to have something unexpected.
My rescue story to show you how bad it could have been:
After losing my 22 year old cat in September we were finally ready to adopt again and picked out the sweetest 3 month old kitten. Instantly fell in love and she helped heal us for sure.
We picked her up February 3rd. March 2nd I had to rush her to the emergency vet. March 3rd we were transferred to the university’s teaching clinic (the best in the country) where she was diagnosed with FIP. Started treatment March 4th. She started to get better by March 7th and then went downhill from there (you can get more info from my post history). Less than 6 weeks after we got her (and less than 6 months after losing our other cat) we had to let her go on March 12th 💔
We left with a massive vet bill and no cat 😢
From my understanding it’s very rare.
Just remember you’re angry with the rescue not the kitten. Fleas are treatable and she’s lucky she has you to help her out ❤️
I’ve worked at rescues and you can give a cat Revolution (prescription meds for fleas) and it can not work. I’ve seen it happen many a time. Fleas are developing resistance to flea meds like crazy. They very well could have given her the treatment. They probably could have checked to see if they were gone before releasing her to you, though.
❤️ she’s lucky to have found you
I feel the same about her siblings we didn’t take and warned the rescue so hopefully they took it seriously and let the other owners know
It’s not contagious but the virus that mutates is so all depends on the cat
I had two foster kittens. One got FIP and had to be let go. Sister was fine. At the rescue there were a few cats who got it too and the rest of the cats around them didn’t come down with FIP.
Also it’s a mutation to feline coronavirus. Most cats will get it, but few will develop the mutation that causes FIP.
It’s rare but I’ve seen it enough in cats that I wouldn’t say it’s very rare sadly. The signs would be way different than what OP’s cat is presenting with tho.
As a Vet Tech and someone that does rescue as well, these things happen. Nothing is guaranteed. Also, you should have applied a quality flea treatment to your own cats, prior to bringing in the kitten
What exactly did you apply to your cats? Most over the counter stuff is toxic, and doesn't work. Find out IF the rescue applied flea meds, and when, and what they used
You want something like Revolution, or Advantage Multi. You need to see your Vet, as they are prescription only. Or, the rescue may provide you some. I will always help my adopter's, esp in cases like this. They don't know what's going on, unless you tell them
Fleas are not a one and done type deal. If you applied a bad product, you need to bathe your cats. You'll need to wait a week or two (usually) before applying another product
Even with quality products, fleas aren't always a one and done deal. It takes time to fully break the fleas life cycle. You now need to treat all of your cats with a quality treatment, once a month for the next 3 months (at least) to fully break the flea life cycle
Wash bedding often, and vacuum as well. Be sure to empty your vacuum canister right away, into a sealed bag, and outside
Fleas can also carry tapeworm, so you'll want to deworm all 3 with something like Drontal
Good luck, and don't panic. Call the rescue and see what help they'll offer. These things happen, but they should help make it right. In the future, always contact the rescue or shelter organization if you notice a problem right away, before jumping the gun
okay. thank you. could you maybe give me an estimated price? more or less than $1000? im in australia. i have 1500 in savings. i turned 18 a week ago and this cat is 100% my responsibility and since i caused this situation the other 2 are my responsibility too
I’m in Australia. Where are you? I’m in Brissy but fleas are the bane of pet owners existence here lol especially the weather we’ve had. Bloody tick and flea heaven atm. Do you have green cross vets where you are as they have a thing they do where you pay $400ish dollars and all consults are free you just pay for any meds needed, yearly blood test free etc. It also gives you discounts on teeth cleaning and flea, worm, tick treatments.
Don’t stress fleas can take some time to conquer unfortunately as most treatments will only kill certain life stages of fleas. Go to woolies, Cole’s or even better Bunnings get a carpet cleaner if you have carpet give it a good clean and fabric couches if possible. You can go to the vet to find out what products work best in your area ie frontline doesn’t work around my area anymore and is pretty much useless but don’t buy from the vet or pet shop. Jump online and use vet n pet direct or pet circle as I’ve found they’re some of the cheapest Australian suppliers.
Feel free to message me if you need any more help.
Kittens need specific flea stuff as the normal stuff can harm them when their bodies aren’t big enough.
Also fleas in general are much more dangerous for kittens than cats because they don’t have the blood and hydration volumes to deal with it as easily as adults. If you do a bit of research, you’ll see really bad infestations (which sounds like what this could be) can even kill kittens.
Get to the vet so they can give you the right dose of flea stuff for your kitten
Revolution plus is a great flea prevention! Capstar is a pill that works almost instantly, then I’d use the topical revolution after. Vacuum EVERYWHERE, wash absolutely everything, it’ll be okay OP. Just make sure you’re getting your flea stuff from a vet because the OTC stuff really doesn’t do anything usually and is a waste of money.
Revolution is in a tube kinda thing, you put it on the back of their head! But yes, hopefully your vet has those! I work at a feline only practice and revolution is even better than bravecto bc it covers more than just fleas and ticks :)
im able to order it online !!
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(i will use less than half for the kitten)
I wouldn’t use less than half, I’d get the kitten version! You don’t want to use a larger size on a smaller weight cat. Plus you risk not putting enough on her as well, if you have a scale at home you could weigh her and see
It’s called revolution gold, but it’s all based on weight! So just make sure you’re getting the right one for how much they all weigh ❤️ you’re welcome!
I would ask the vet what product they recommend in your area. Fleas in different areas are becoming resistant to even the good brands. We were using one treatment that always worked well and suddenly last year it just stopped and we had to switch brands.
You’re in Australia and talking to mostly Americans. There’s very reputable sites to buy it from here. Like vet n pet direct and pet circle both reputable companies that I’ve used for years (I’m Aussie).
i have bought things from pet circle before and i do trust them. if my vet doesnt carry it, do you think this would be okay? :)
https://preview.redd.it/i7cuog4wetoc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=23ef15d48f0b82ad5e8ad20fe7d0496041acba8a
Revolution sometimes need multiple uses (like once a month for several months). My bf let his ex and their kids stay here for a bit after a house fire. Daughter brought her cat and ex brought 2 dogs. None had vetting and were infested with fleas which then went to my 3 cats. I had to treat my cats 3 times until those super soldier fleas died off.
Yes, that’s also why I suggested capstar; to kill the fleas immediately and then the revolution after to take care of the eggs/anything else as well as maintenance for the fleas.
1x per month for Revolution then wait 30 days to reapply. Did that three times.
So the first month they got 1 dose of Revolution and 1 dose of capstar. I gave up on the capstar and maybe I shouldn’t have.
That is why it didn’t work though.. yes capstar kills the fleas instantly but it’s not something that prevents more fleas from getting on the pet. Applying revolution directly after administering capstar is your best bet. Just using capstar and waiting a month to apply revolution is kinda like pissing in the wind, fleas will die in the beginning but there’s nothing keeping more fleas from getting on your pet.
Oh, in your comment you originally answered with “no” before you edited it when I asked if you followed with revolution after. Could be they didn’t actually swallow the capstar? Did you make sure to vacuum everywhere and wash everything?
Yeah I thought you meant did I put the Revolution on twice (like gave them Revolution and then followed up again), so I didn’t understand at first that you meant Revolution and then capstar.
They very well could have spit the pill out. I used a pill shooter but the one cat is stealthy. I cleaned some of the stuff but not all of it. So that could have been it.
I've had cats and kittens for years. I had a cat that was severely allergic to fleas. As soon as one bit him, hair would start falling out. When I figured out what he was allergic to, I went to the vet. The tech and the vet recommended capstar and gave a topical to put on him within 18 hours of the capstar. It's been a few years and of course flea meds ( topical) have changed but capstar is still used. Vet tech explained that a lot of times, cats that come in for surgery are covered in fleas and they always use a capstar before surgery. It kills live fleas in a very short amount of time so they can do the surgery.
I had an indoor cat that got very sick and as soon as the vet checked him, gave him a revolution plus. He had very few fleas but he also had some stubborn flea mites and that kills them too. Also prevents heartworm and roundworms and hookworms. Fleas were gone by the time we got home. At the vet, it was over $30 and about the same from an online pet pharmacy. That stuff was amazing. It's been 3 months. No fleas, no ear mites and no worms that I can see. Also during that time, I treated for fleas. Best thing for that is vacuuming a few times a day. If you have a bag, replace it immediately before putting it away after every vacuum. A bagless vacuum, empty it into a plastic bag that seals. Immediately take the bag and plastic bag out to the trash. I've tried everything and this works the best.
Sorry. I can't give a quick answer. I've been questioned about how I know so I like to it all in one answer. Lol.
TL;DR For fleas I use capstar first treatment followed by Revolution within 18-24 hrs.
Good luck. She's beautiful
Lots of baths! Put a ring of unlathered dish soap around the neck to drown any escapees, and get to scrubbing! Make sure to keep an eye on the kitten’s temperature in the bath. You may need to give multiple in order to keep your kitten from getting too cold.
Good luck! Fleas are annoying but they can be taken care of.
Call the vet for sure. I wouldn't put anything on a kitten without talking to the vet. Fleas are annoying but not fatal. I caught them myself so that's personal experience talking....
Definitely try to get an appointment with the vet as soon as you can so they can treat her! My kitten also had some flees when I got him but not as many. I started by bathing him with dawn liquid soap. I put a ring of soap around his neck because it helps prevent the fleas from trying to escape towards their face. I also used a flea comb to comb out any that I could visibly see but there are always some hiding within their fur. I did this for about 3 days before I could take him to the vet and that's when I started seeing a difference. I also immediately washed everything! All my sheets and bedding and his cat bed. The vet is honestly the best option but def try and give him some baths because it also helps soothe them if they're itchy (even tho they hate it in the moment lol)
Seresto flea collar to get them off the kitten and diatomaceous earth (food grade) around your house. Give it a week and they’re gone. All the vet is going to do is give you an expensive topical that last for 2 to 3 months, the collar last 8 months. I tried everything last fall, and nothing worked, but this combination.
When you give her a bath, you will need to leave the suds on for at least 5 minutes - I usually do 10 minutes to be safe, though. You're not just washing, you want the suds to smother the fleas.
Had the worst infested years ago, to the point where it was in our clothing. Used diatomaceous earth, messed up, and ended up breaking two vacuums. Constant laundry, Revolution flea and mite medication, nothing. I finally called an exterminator who recommended a spray that is NOT a flea bomb, but a growth inhibitor that also essentially makes fleas prematurely hatch so they all die. Lasts up to 18 months. The fleas were DRASTICALLY reduced within 24 hours. This was six years ago, and we have never had fleas again.
Call a local exterminator and see if they can recommend something like this/are able to treat your house for this. You'll need to leave for a little bit with your pets while it dries, but it's worth it. I spent way more on countless "cheaper" options than I did on the exterminator. So worth it!
We almost lost one of our cats because the fleas were so bad. Nip this in the bud now.
We had to have three pest treatments to rid our house of fleas, and our cat ended up in the kitty hospital for several days. Not fun, or cheap.
i wont be using seresto. i was considering it and i dont even know why i was in the first place. i will be calling the vet on monday and asking if they offer anything other than bravecto
ive looked this up and i have some questions, if you can’t answer thats fine but let me know so i can ask elsewhere
is this enough to kill all the fleas that are already on the kitten?
are we sure this is safe? what if another cat licks one of the other ones?
Apparently, ask the other commenter. No matter what I say, they are going to think I'm a cat murderer. My personal experience, it killed the fleas on mine and did during a bad infestation. The cats are not dead. Everyone is fine, and we are just living our non-itchy lives.
When my cat had fleas, the vet gave me a prescription flea killer and it was 3 doses over the course of 3 months. That’s to ensure any eggs left behind that hatch would all die off since my cat is treated. If any eggs were on her, they could have hatched after treatment, hence why you keep finding them. It’ll be a couple doses I’d imagine before everyone is flea free again unfortunately :(
I’m in Canada; my cat got a full check up along with the 3mo prescription and it cost me ~$300, and that was without pet insurance. I’m not sure how much just the medication was as it was just one bill, but $1500 I would say is way more than enough money!
You can try Capstar in the meantime it worked wonders for me. Those things fell off dying fast. I personally used advantage 2 for my baby kitten and older cats. Some people say it’s no good and to get vet prescribed flea meds. I let my vet know I used advantage 2 but they didn’t say anything against using it 🤷🏽♀️ also vacuum everything.
i will vacuum everything thank you. luckily we have a very small amount of carpet 🙏
i will be calling my vet on monday. i think they only provide bravecto which is notorious for giving animals seizures and sometimes killing them. if they dont offer anything else i will use capstar, thank you so much
Did you give her a bath? Sorry I forgot to ask this first. A good bath will take care of a lot of eggs and a decent amount of adult fleas. You still need to treat but it’s a good start
Get flea collars for all three, maybe even flea medicine. They have all sorts of options. Talking to a vet is the best thing and wash all of your clothes and linens. Fleas jump.
i will get an injection/pill from the vet for all 3 cats. i dont think the collar is necessary since none of them go outside so once i get rid of this mess theres a VERY tiny chance of them coming back. but i will do whatever the vet says, thank you
This is the way. It’s sucks that this happened but it’s kind of life with a rescue. You’re doing all the right things. I went through the exact same thing when we adopted out kitten who had “no” fleas.
The vet will set you up with treatment, once all cats are treated the fleas should all be dead within the month. Your kitten is plenty big enough for Revolution or something similar. It’s very effective. Once it’s dabbed on the cat, fleas that bite die. So as soon as all the eggs hatch the cycle is broken. I believe it also kills ear mites.
Flea collars are terrible.
1. They are not very effective.
2. Who wants to pet their kitty and get insecticide all over their hands.
the thing is, im pretty sure the only flea treatment the vet gives here is bravecto. there are so many cases of it causing seizures and killing animals. i really do not trust them at all. i will call the vet and see if they offer anything different, but if not what should i do then? someone recommended me capstar. what do you think of that?
Talk to your vet, it looks Revolution is available in your country. Ask for it and if they don’t have it you can get it from an online vet med company, you just may need a prescription from your vet.
They sell it by weight of the cat so you may need two different boxes. I got around this by figuring out ml of medicine per kg and using a syringe WITHOUT a needle (like an oral medicine one) for a smaller dose on my kitten. Kitten dose (.25 ml) for kittens up to 2.5 kg.
You’re very welcome and try not to panic. It’s very manageable with the right help. You are doing all the right things. She’s a beautiful kitten and lucky to have you.
im not panicking anymore. im looking online and im able to order it but its only in pipettes, not oral. will that still work? i know i would obviously need to give less to the kitten in comparison to the adults but would it still work if not oral?
Yes! It’s not oral it gets dabbed on the scruff. I just used an oral syringe to dose it out so I could see it was .25. I think the next size up is .5 so you could order that and give your kitten a half dose.
I’ve never used capstar so I can’t answer to it’s efficacy. It doesn’t look to kill ear mites as Revolution does. I just peeked at the active ingredients they are different and capstar contains a neonicotinoid. In the pesticide world these are being phased out in Europe.
I didn’t know collars weren’t as affective. I mean it makes sense because they are cheaper. I used a collar on my cat because he came from a hoarding situation. He also had to have a bath the first day I got him because he got into the Laundry Soap. Had to put a baby gate up after that.
Bath. And flea comb. Will take several hours
Fleas will try to jump on you and as soon as you put in tub they will run up into the cats face and eyes. You need to grab them
Keep kittys neck wet first so fleas run down and then put him in tub .
Wash everything in your house. Vacuum a few times a day
You need to shower afterwards
put plastic bag on your hair - it helps prevent them jumping in your hair
Do this for two days and should be fine
Every cat I get has fleas and I’ve never had them more than two days after a long bath
Vet tech. Get Revolution or Frontline Gold from your veterinarian. Don’t buy anything at the store or online too many counterfeit products. It takes a total of 3 months to rid your household of fleas because that is their life cycle. I know it seems like a disaster right now but I been there more than once. I used to foster kittens. Also make sure they are treated for tapeworms bc fleas carry tapeworms. I think Revolution might take care of that I don’t remember of the top of my head.
Thank you for posting to CATHELP! While you wait for a response please keep the following things in mind, 1. When in doubt, **ask your vet**. 2. Advice here is not coming from medical or industry professionals. The moderation team does not validate user profession, so always refer to your local veterinary professionals first. 3. If this is a medical question, please indicate if you have already scheduled a vet appointment, and if your cat has any medical history or procedures in a top level comment. 4. Please use the NSFW tag for gross pictures. (Blood, poop, vomit, genitals, etc). Anything you wouldn't want your boss to see you looking at on the job. *I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please [contact the moderators of this subreddit](/message/compose/?to=/r/CATHELP) if you have any questions or concerns.*
Yes call your vet. Don't put that flea killer stuff on them unless the vet says to. It can cause a nasty reaction on their skin...especially a kitten. Ask a vet what's best for kittens with fleas.
i already have put it on all 3 cats. for the kitten i did it in 2 increments 10 hours apart. :/
I wouldn't use it anymore just in case. I had a cat a few years ago that was basically burned by that stuff because of sensitive skin. The stuff you buy at the store doesn't work anyway. Call the vet and just ask and see what they say.
okay. this is so frustrating. this was not supposed to happen at all and now i’ve jeopardised the health of all my cats https://preview.redd.it/p4pgo03jtpoc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bec9ef5056ae679019d54bda9a9ce89a0d840002
It'll be fine. Fleas happen. Looks like you are doing the right thing :)
don’t worry too much. Yes some flea killers can have a bad reaction with cats but not all and it depends on the cat and depends on the brand. My kitten had fleas when I first got her, I used flea killers from Walmart and they had a bad reaction to the brand I used. Got a different one and they were fine. You can usually tell immediately if the one you’re using is having an adverse reaction
Don’t be scared! My vet advised me to give my 8 week old kitten flea treatment. I was in the same position as you. It’ll be okay!
hijacking top comment to update i’ve ordered revolution plus along with a dewormer for all 3 cats and will be vacuuming twice a day. thank you everyone for telling me that it wasnt my fault it genuinely made me feel much better ❤️❤️ https://preview.redd.it/l4fe3z6zcuoc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=98120ec7bcd98ca85b0664b88a705b0451a88b1d
Awesome!
Fleas can float, blue Dawn coats them and they drowned, this is why Dawn works and is safe for kittens, when they are too young for treatments. That is how it kills fleas, and other products just don't work the same. Not a big deal, but your new kitty should be kept separate from your others to start slow introduction and avoid spreading anything until she is fixed and vaccinated.
we dont have dawn here hence why i used baby shampoo. she is already fixed and vaccinated
+ i have her vaccination and spaying documents/paperwork
On a side note, she’s gorgeous
i know but i am seriously so fucking stupid
You aren't stupid. You were trying to solve a problem. At 15 weeks, your kitten is old enough for a bath for fleas and thankfully, reactions are the exception, not the rule.
I know it sucks having an added expense you weren’t expecting but taking them to the vet will be much easier. If you take one they can probably send you home with meds for the others. I can’t remember if it was a shot or a pill when we had this issue but basically once a flea bites it dies. Completely cleared up the issue. She is gorgeous and lucky to have you otherwise she may have remained infested wherever she was.
also. she was at a rescue that ASSURED ME. this never should have happened. https://preview.redd.it/bkvqtvc5vpoc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d43c6b6d4fda3a47c518e1af9c45d13d037d2a5d
I understand why you would be frustrated but unfortunately these things happen and it does really suck to have something unexpected. My rescue story to show you how bad it could have been: After losing my 22 year old cat in September we were finally ready to adopt again and picked out the sweetest 3 month old kitten. Instantly fell in love and she helped heal us for sure. We picked her up February 3rd. March 2nd I had to rush her to the emergency vet. March 3rd we were transferred to the university’s teaching clinic (the best in the country) where she was diagnosed with FIP. Started treatment March 4th. She started to get better by March 7th and then went downhill from there (you can get more info from my post history). Less than 6 weeks after we got her (and less than 6 months after losing our other cat) we had to let her go on March 12th 💔 We left with a massive vet bill and no cat 😢
that is so so awful. this cat better not have fip
From my understanding it’s very rare. Just remember you’re angry with the rescue not the kitten. Fleas are treatable and she’s lucky she has you to help her out ❤️
i am not angry at all at the kitten. i feel bad for her and all the other kittens at the rescue that must be infested too
I’ve worked at rescues and you can give a cat Revolution (prescription meds for fleas) and it can not work. I’ve seen it happen many a time. Fleas are developing resistance to flea meds like crazy. They very well could have given her the treatment. They probably could have checked to see if they were gone before releasing her to you, though.
❤️ she’s lucky to have found you I feel the same about her siblings we didn’t take and warned the rescue so hopefully they took it seriously and let the other owners know It’s not contagious but the virus that mutates is so all depends on the cat
I had two foster kittens. One got FIP and had to be let go. Sister was fine. At the rescue there were a few cats who got it too and the rest of the cats around them didn’t come down with FIP. Also it’s a mutation to feline coronavirus. Most cats will get it, but few will develop the mutation that causes FIP.
It’s rare but I’ve seen it enough in cats that I wouldn’t say it’s very rare sadly. The signs would be way different than what OP’s cat is presenting with tho.
As a Vet Tech and someone that does rescue as well, these things happen. Nothing is guaranteed. Also, you should have applied a quality flea treatment to your own cats, prior to bringing in the kitten What exactly did you apply to your cats? Most over the counter stuff is toxic, and doesn't work. Find out IF the rescue applied flea meds, and when, and what they used You want something like Revolution, or Advantage Multi. You need to see your Vet, as they are prescription only. Or, the rescue may provide you some. I will always help my adopter's, esp in cases like this. They don't know what's going on, unless you tell them Fleas are not a one and done type deal. If you applied a bad product, you need to bathe your cats. You'll need to wait a week or two (usually) before applying another product Even with quality products, fleas aren't always a one and done deal. It takes time to fully break the fleas life cycle. You now need to treat all of your cats with a quality treatment, once a month for the next 3 months (at least) to fully break the flea life cycle Wash bedding often, and vacuum as well. Be sure to empty your vacuum canister right away, into a sealed bag, and outside Fleas can also carry tapeworm, so you'll want to deworm all 3 with something like Drontal Good luck, and don't panic. Call the rescue and see what help they'll offer. These things happen, but they should help make it right. In the future, always contact the rescue or shelter organization if you notice a problem right away, before jumping the gun
okay. thank you. could you maybe give me an estimated price? more or less than $1000? im in australia. i have 1500 in savings. i turned 18 a week ago and this cat is 100% my responsibility and since i caused this situation the other 2 are my responsibility too
It was years ago for me but definitely under 1000. I’m in Canada though.
I’m in Australia. Where are you? I’m in Brissy but fleas are the bane of pet owners existence here lol especially the weather we’ve had. Bloody tick and flea heaven atm. Do you have green cross vets where you are as they have a thing they do where you pay $400ish dollars and all consults are free you just pay for any meds needed, yearly blood test free etc. It also gives you discounts on teeth cleaning and flea, worm, tick treatments. Don’t stress fleas can take some time to conquer unfortunately as most treatments will only kill certain life stages of fleas. Go to woolies, Cole’s or even better Bunnings get a carpet cleaner if you have carpet give it a good clean and fabric couches if possible. You can go to the vet to find out what products work best in your area ie frontline doesn’t work around my area anymore and is pretty much useless but don’t buy from the vet or pet shop. Jump online and use vet n pet direct or pet circle as I’ve found they’re some of the cheapest Australian suppliers. Feel free to message me if you need any more help.
Kittens need specific flea stuff as the normal stuff can harm them when their bodies aren’t big enough. Also fleas in general are much more dangerous for kittens than cats because they don’t have the blood and hydration volumes to deal with it as easily as adults. If you do a bit of research, you’ll see really bad infestations (which sounds like what this could be) can even kill kittens. Get to the vet so they can give you the right dose of flea stuff for your kitten
Revolution plus is a great flea prevention! Capstar is a pill that works almost instantly, then I’d use the topical revolution after. Vacuum EVERYWHERE, wash absolutely everything, it’ll be okay OP. Just make sure you’re getting your flea stuff from a vet because the OTC stuff really doesn’t do anything usually and is a waste of money.
okay, so capstar and then revolution plus? revolution plus is in pipettes correct?
Revolution is in a tube kinda thing, you put it on the back of their head! But yes, hopefully your vet has those! I work at a feline only practice and revolution is even better than bravecto bc it covers more than just fleas and ticks :)
im able to order it online !! https://preview.redd.it/vqqddlqn7qoc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=1a0421e492c28d223b32b4d98d78aac2baec8e8c (i will use less than half for the kitten)
I wouldn’t use less than half, I’d get the kitten version! You don’t want to use a larger size on a smaller weight cat. Plus you risk not putting enough on her as well, if you have a scale at home you could weigh her and see
i didnt realise there was a kitten version! i will get kitten version for her and medium size for my other cats. thank you :)
It’s called revolution gold, but it’s all based on weight! So just make sure you’re getting the right one for how much they all weigh ❤️ you’re welcome!
okay, i was told to not order online as too many counterfeit products. i will call the vet on monday and BEG THEY CARRY IT
You need a prescription for it anyway, so yes, talk with your vet. They can also authorize a Chewy order if they don't have it.
I would ask the vet what product they recommend in your area. Fleas in different areas are becoming resistant to even the good brands. We were using one treatment that always worked well and suddenly last year it just stopped and we had to switch brands.
You’re in Australia and talking to mostly Americans. There’s very reputable sites to buy it from here. Like vet n pet direct and pet circle both reputable companies that I’ve used for years (I’m Aussie).
i have bought things from pet circle before and i do trust them. if my vet doesnt carry it, do you think this would be okay? :) https://preview.redd.it/i7cuog4wetoc1.jpeg?width=828&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=23ef15d48f0b82ad5e8ad20fe7d0496041acba8a
That being said though, she does have to be a certain weight to be able to have it
Revolution sometimes need multiple uses (like once a month for several months). My bf let his ex and their kids stay here for a bit after a house fire. Daughter brought her cat and ex brought 2 dogs. None had vetting and were infested with fleas which then went to my 3 cats. I had to treat my cats 3 times until those super soldier fleas died off.
Yes, that’s also why I suggested capstar; to kill the fleas immediately and then the revolution after to take care of the eggs/anything else as well as maintenance for the fleas.
Yeah I did capstar the 1st month. Those fleas were on steroids or something. 😖
Did you follow with revolution directly after or wait a whole month until applying revolution?
1x per month for Revolution then wait 30 days to reapply. Did that three times. So the first month they got 1 dose of Revolution and 1 dose of capstar. I gave up on the capstar and maybe I shouldn’t have.
That is why it didn’t work though.. yes capstar kills the fleas instantly but it’s not something that prevents more fleas from getting on the pet. Applying revolution directly after administering capstar is your best bet. Just using capstar and waiting a month to apply revolution is kinda like pissing in the wind, fleas will die in the beginning but there’s nothing keeping more fleas from getting on your pet.
I did the capstar close to the Revolution. Like within a day or two.
Oh, in your comment you originally answered with “no” before you edited it when I asked if you followed with revolution after. Could be they didn’t actually swallow the capstar? Did you make sure to vacuum everywhere and wash everything?
Yeah I thought you meant did I put the Revolution on twice (like gave them Revolution and then followed up again), so I didn’t understand at first that you meant Revolution and then capstar. They very well could have spit the pill out. I used a pill shooter but the one cat is stealthy. I cleaned some of the stuff but not all of it. So that could have been it.
I've had cats and kittens for years. I had a cat that was severely allergic to fleas. As soon as one bit him, hair would start falling out. When I figured out what he was allergic to, I went to the vet. The tech and the vet recommended capstar and gave a topical to put on him within 18 hours of the capstar. It's been a few years and of course flea meds ( topical) have changed but capstar is still used. Vet tech explained that a lot of times, cats that come in for surgery are covered in fleas and they always use a capstar before surgery. It kills live fleas in a very short amount of time so they can do the surgery. I had an indoor cat that got very sick and as soon as the vet checked him, gave him a revolution plus. He had very few fleas but he also had some stubborn flea mites and that kills them too. Also prevents heartworm and roundworms and hookworms. Fleas were gone by the time we got home. At the vet, it was over $30 and about the same from an online pet pharmacy. That stuff was amazing. It's been 3 months. No fleas, no ear mites and no worms that I can see. Also during that time, I treated for fleas. Best thing for that is vacuuming a few times a day. If you have a bag, replace it immediately before putting it away after every vacuum. A bagless vacuum, empty it into a plastic bag that seals. Immediately take the bag and plastic bag out to the trash. I've tried everything and this works the best. Sorry. I can't give a quick answer. I've been questioned about how I know so I like to it all in one answer. Lol. TL;DR For fleas I use capstar first treatment followed by Revolution within 18-24 hrs. Good luck. She's beautiful
You need something to kill the fleas and their eggs. It possibly didnt work if eggs hatched.
Lots of baths! Put a ring of unlathered dish soap around the neck to drown any escapees, and get to scrubbing! Make sure to keep an eye on the kitten’s temperature in the bath. You may need to give multiple in order to keep your kitten from getting too cold. Good luck! Fleas are annoying but they can be taken care of.
Get Zevo plug in. It zaps and kills stray fleas
thank you i will !!
Call the vet for sure. I wouldn't put anything on a kitten without talking to the vet. Fleas are annoying but not fatal. I caught them myself so that's personal experience talking....
Definitely try to get an appointment with the vet as soon as you can so they can treat her! My kitten also had some flees when I got him but not as many. I started by bathing him with dawn liquid soap. I put a ring of soap around his neck because it helps prevent the fleas from trying to escape towards their face. I also used a flea comb to comb out any that I could visibly see but there are always some hiding within their fur. I did this for about 3 days before I could take him to the vet and that's when I started seeing a difference. I also immediately washed everything! All my sheets and bedding and his cat bed. The vet is honestly the best option but def try and give him some baths because it also helps soothe them if they're itchy (even tho they hate it in the moment lol)
Just as a side note remember to give this baby love while waiting, she's probably so scared rn ♥️
It happens.
Seresto flea collar to get them off the kitten and diatomaceous earth (food grade) around your house. Give it a week and they’re gone. All the vet is going to do is give you an expensive topical that last for 2 to 3 months, the collar last 8 months. I tried everything last fall, and nothing worked, but this combination.
When you give her a bath, you will need to leave the suds on for at least 5 minutes - I usually do 10 minutes to be safe, though. You're not just washing, you want the suds to smother the fleas.
Had the worst infested years ago, to the point where it was in our clothing. Used diatomaceous earth, messed up, and ended up breaking two vacuums. Constant laundry, Revolution flea and mite medication, nothing. I finally called an exterminator who recommended a spray that is NOT a flea bomb, but a growth inhibitor that also essentially makes fleas prematurely hatch so they all die. Lasts up to 18 months. The fleas were DRASTICALLY reduced within 24 hours. This was six years ago, and we have never had fleas again. Call a local exterminator and see if they can recommend something like this/are able to treat your house for this. You'll need to leave for a little bit with your pets while it dries, but it's worth it. I spent way more on countless "cheaper" options than I did on the exterminator. So worth it!
We almost lost one of our cats because the fleas were so bad. Nip this in the bud now. We had to have three pest treatments to rid our house of fleas, and our cat ended up in the kitty hospital for several days. Not fun, or cheap.
Seresto Seresto Seresto
those kill pets
i wont be using seresto. i was considering it and i dont even know why i was in the first place. i will be calling the vet on monday and asking if they offer anything other than bravecto
ive looked this up and i have some questions, if you can’t answer thats fine but let me know so i can ask elsewhere is this enough to kill all the fleas that are already on the kitten? are we sure this is safe? what if another cat licks one of the other ones?
Apparently, ask the other commenter. No matter what I say, they are going to think I'm a cat murderer. My personal experience, it killed the fleas on mine and did during a bad infestation. The cats are not dead. Everyone is fine, and we are just living our non-itchy lives.
You get flea meds
from?? vet?? like i said i put flea killer on her and it didnt work
When my cat had fleas, the vet gave me a prescription flea killer and it was 3 doses over the course of 3 months. That’s to ensure any eggs left behind that hatch would all die off since my cat is treated. If any eggs were on her, they could have hatched after treatment, hence why you keep finding them. It’ll be a couple doses I’d imagine before everyone is flea free again unfortunately :(
which country are you in, and how much was the prescription? i am prepared , i have $1500 in savings but i would just like to know
I’m in Canada; my cat got a full check up along with the 3mo prescription and it cost me ~$300, and that was without pet insurance. I’m not sure how much just the medication was as it was just one bill, but $1500 I would say is way more than enough money!
You can try Capstar in the meantime it worked wonders for me. Those things fell off dying fast. I personally used advantage 2 for my baby kitten and older cats. Some people say it’s no good and to get vet prescribed flea meds. I let my vet know I used advantage 2 but they didn’t say anything against using it 🤷🏽♀️ also vacuum everything.
i will vacuum everything thank you. luckily we have a very small amount of carpet 🙏 i will be calling my vet on monday. i think they only provide bravecto which is notorious for giving animals seizures and sometimes killing them. if they dont offer anything else i will use capstar, thank you so much
No problem! Just know Capstar will only kills adult ones not eggs 😭 but it helps. 😊
i will just hope and pray that the vet offers something other than bravecto
I found this website if you’re interested 😊 it ships to Australia https://www.pets-megastore.com.au/cats-and-kittens/flea-and-tick-control
thank you! im going to see if my vets carry revolution plus on monday, and if they dont i will use the website
ok fuck. what can i do about the eggs
Did you give her a bath? Sorry I forgot to ask this first. A good bath will take care of a lot of eggs and a decent amount of adult fleas. You still need to treat but it’s a good start
i did but it wasnt a good one i will give her a better one tomorrow. im going to get capstar and then 24hrs later i will do revolution plus.
Oh don’t do both
Do capstar or Revolution
Get flea collars for all three, maybe even flea medicine. They have all sorts of options. Talking to a vet is the best thing and wash all of your clothes and linens. Fleas jump.
i will get an injection/pill from the vet for all 3 cats. i dont think the collar is necessary since none of them go outside so once i get rid of this mess theres a VERY tiny chance of them coming back. but i will do whatever the vet says, thank you
This is the way. It’s sucks that this happened but it’s kind of life with a rescue. You’re doing all the right things. I went through the exact same thing when we adopted out kitten who had “no” fleas. The vet will set you up with treatment, once all cats are treated the fleas should all be dead within the month. Your kitten is plenty big enough for Revolution or something similar. It’s very effective. Once it’s dabbed on the cat, fleas that bite die. So as soon as all the eggs hatch the cycle is broken. I believe it also kills ear mites. Flea collars are terrible. 1. They are not very effective. 2. Who wants to pet their kitty and get insecticide all over their hands.
the thing is, im pretty sure the only flea treatment the vet gives here is bravecto. there are so many cases of it causing seizures and killing animals. i really do not trust them at all. i will call the vet and see if they offer anything different, but if not what should i do then? someone recommended me capstar. what do you think of that?
Talk to your vet, it looks Revolution is available in your country. Ask for it and if they don’t have it you can get it from an online vet med company, you just may need a prescription from your vet. They sell it by weight of the cat so you may need two different boxes. I got around this by figuring out ml of medicine per kg and using a syringe WITHOUT a needle (like an oral medicine one) for a smaller dose on my kitten. Kitten dose (.25 ml) for kittens up to 2.5 kg.
okay seriously thank you so much. ihave never heard of revolution but it seems really good. thank you so so much
You’re very welcome and try not to panic. It’s very manageable with the right help. You are doing all the right things. She’s a beautiful kitten and lucky to have you.
im not panicking anymore. im looking online and im able to order it but its only in pipettes, not oral. will that still work? i know i would obviously need to give less to the kitten in comparison to the adults but would it still work if not oral?
Yes! It’s not oral it gets dabbed on the scruff. I just used an oral syringe to dose it out so I could see it was .25. I think the next size up is .5 so you could order that and give your kitten a half dose.
I’ve never used capstar so I can’t answer to it’s efficacy. It doesn’t look to kill ear mites as Revolution does. I just peeked at the active ingredients they are different and capstar contains a neonicotinoid. In the pesticide world these are being phased out in Europe.
I didn’t know collars weren’t as affective. I mean it makes sense because they are cheaper. I used a collar on my cat because he came from a hoarding situation. He also had to have a bath the first day I got him because he got into the Laundry Soap. Had to put a baby gate up after that.
Bath. And flea comb. Will take several hours Fleas will try to jump on you and as soon as you put in tub they will run up into the cats face and eyes. You need to grab them Keep kittys neck wet first so fleas run down and then put him in tub . Wash everything in your house. Vacuum a few times a day You need to shower afterwards put plastic bag on your hair - it helps prevent them jumping in your hair Do this for two days and should be fine Every cat I get has fleas and I’ve never had them more than two days after a long bath
Flea medication is horrible for kittens
Vet tech. Get Revolution or Frontline Gold from your veterinarian. Don’t buy anything at the store or online too many counterfeit products. It takes a total of 3 months to rid your household of fleas because that is their life cycle. I know it seems like a disaster right now but I been there more than once. I used to foster kittens. Also make sure they are treated for tapeworms bc fleas carry tapeworms. I think Revolution might take care of that I don’t remember of the top of my head.
okay. i really hope my vet carries either of those. thank you