When are fleas a problem?
In northeastern Ohio, I would say that fleas are an issue from March through November. This year has been a terrible year as far as fleas are concerned due to the extended periods of unusually warm weather (90+) and the fact that it's been so dry. I begin using spot-on flea medication for my dogs and cats in the beginning of March and then use them through November. Sometimes, if the weather is warm in December or February, I will start then. But, so far, this methodology has worked well for us.
Have you ever had fleas infest your home? If so, what did they do?
I had a flea infestation only once. And, it was terrible. When my grandmother passed away (4 years ago this past August), I had to travel back to New Jersey for her funeral. And, since my dog was under a year old at the time, I decided to bring her with me (a friend sat with the kitties). And, while I stayed with my father in northeast Pennsylvania, he failed to mention that he had stopped treating his pets and that he had a full-blown infestation at the time. And, since my dog was still young, I had not started her on monthly protection (for health reasons -- per my vet). And, by the time we got home, she, too, was crawling with fleas. I immediately went into action and bathed her with dawn detergent and used a flea comb. I also put her on spot-on treatment. But, the damage was done. I had to vaccuum my apartment 2-3 times per day and did laundry as soon as there was a load to be done. I did everything and then some, but they were difficult to manage and both myself and my puppy were constantly being bitten. And, aside from the physical aspect, it definitely took a toll on me emotionally and financially as well. It took 3 months for me to get the infestation under control and it's an experience I hope to never have again. It was terrible!
What methods do you use to control fleas?
I currently use Revolution on my cats and dogs. And, as stated earlier, I use the meds on them from March through November. The dogs do get heartworm prevention during the winter months, but I do not use the Revolution at that time. I also vaccuum frequently and wash linens, clothes, and pet beds regularly. Neither my roommate or I wear our shoes in the house and we change if need be as we know fleas can travel in on us. I work in a vet clinic and I change before even coming in the house since I often come in contact with fleas and other parasites. It takes vigilance, but it is worth it to prevent infestations in the home.
What other insects cause problems for your cats?
No other insects or parasites are trouble-causing. Of course, I schedule fecal exams and de-wormings throughout the year as well as comprehensive exams to ensure that they are healthy, but Revolution does help in that department as well. As with any home, we have insects that get in, but keeping the home tidy, free of clutter, and clean helps reduce the risk of insect infestations and we have thankfully not had issues with any pests in a number of years.
No mite issues. Once treated in a new cat they're gone. (mites are not insects, btw, they're arachnids just like spiders and ticks are)
