Parasites:
It is very important to keep indoor kittens and cats free from internal and external parasites. Of the internal parasites, tapeworms are the easiest to identify (the proglottids, or egg packets, look like rice grains, and when "fresh" are mobile) and the most common species in cats is transmitted by fleas. Control of tapeworms involves oral medication plus flea eradication, or the cats will become reinfected. Roundworms and hookworms are rare in indoor catteries, but if there is a problem, it is readily controlled with oral medication.

External parasites include fleas, ear and body mites. Not all ear infections involve ear mites; a simple microscopic exam of an ear swab by your veterinarian can detect ear mites or their eggs, if present. Body or mange mites are fortunately uncommon in cats, especially indoor cats. Ear and body mites are generally easily treated in cats.

Fleas are widespread througout the U.S., and are a year-round problem in the southern states. Fleas are the most common cause of allergic dermatitis in cats, carry one common species of tapeworm, and severe infestations can cause anemia and even death in young kittens. Indoor catteries, even those with no dogs in the household, are not guaranteed to be free of fleas. Flea control involves treating the cats, the house, and often the yard. A full discussion of the scope of flea control products is beyond the scope of this Advisory. In general, however, one should avoid shampoos or other products unless they are specifically labeled for use in cats; dogs can tolerate many products which cats cannot. Pyrethrin (a marigold extract) products are among the safest and most effective products to use on cats to kill adult fleas. Insect growth regulators greatly improve the effectiveness of flea treatment, and include methoprene (Precor) and fenoxycarb, found in some flea "bombs" and sprays, as well as lufeneron (Program); Program is available as an oral monthly product or as an injection lasting for 6 months. Newer topical prescription products like Advantage and Frontline are very effective at killing adult fleas, and a single dose works for about one month. Proban, an oral product designed for use in dogs, had been used in cats "off label" for many years; however, there are now better and safer products which are label-approved for cats, including Program, Advantage and Frontline. More "natural" ways to control fleas include borax or diatomaceous earth treatments, and citrus-based shampoos. Dips, because they are designed to leave a residual chemical on the coat, are less safe for cats than for dogs, and must be used with caution. All flea products should be used exactly according to label directions.

Cats are also susceptible to heartworm disease. Cases of feline heartworm disease have been identified in 38 states. The immature larvae of this parasite are carried by mosquitos, and while much more common in dogs than in cats, can infect cats with serious consequences including sudden death. In areas where canine heartworm disease is very prevalent, it may also be worthwhile to consider monthly heartworm prevention for cats. Mosquitos do gain indoor access, and heartworm disease has been diagnosed in strictly indoor cats. Treatment of this disease in cats is not as safe or effective as in dogs.

Command Performance Poeme

Love to spend this time with you
My friend that's always near
Devoted and so loving
With loyal heart so dear

All these precious hours
We share life every day
You and I together
We'll always be that way

When I'm sad and lonely
You're always next to me
With love and such devotion
Your friendship I can see

You'll always be my champion
Truly my best friend
Heart of love and happiness
On you I can depend

We'll always walk together
The path of love defined
For every moment with you
All sorrow left behind

Thank you for this blessing
My love with special praise
A friend who's always with you
The heart that always stays.

~ Francine Pucillo ~
©used with permission

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this beautiful set is"Command Performance" created by my good friend Beverly Zuerlein. Main picture exchanged against Bonfires Cheeky Fellow with friendly permission of Beverly Zuerlein, floating by Lissa.