What parasites are in the fur and under the skin of cats: photos and names, symptoms and treatment, diseases caused by them

Although cats are cherished friends, unswelcome guests may occasionally be hidden by their fur. Unbeknownst to many pet owners, parasites that reside in a cat’s fur or under its skin are more common. If these pests are not treated, they may cause discomfort and even worsening health problems.

Early detection of parasites is essential to maintaining your cat’s health. There are various kinds of parasites, and each has unique symptoms and therapies. While some are easily recognized by their fur, others are more difficult to find because they burrow beneath the skin.

You will be able to identify the most prevalent parasites in cats, comprehend the symptoms they produce, and discover efficient remedies by reading this article. We’ll also discuss diseases that these infestations can cause so you can decide when to take your pet to the vet.

Fleas: what diseases they cause, how to get rid of them?

Although nature harbors over a hundred species of fleas with various names, the most common type to settle on a cat’s body is the Ctenocephalides Felis, commonly known as the cat flea. This is how this insect appears:

• the body is slightly flattened from the sides and covered with a chitinous shell;
• bristles are located over the entire surface, with the help of which the flea clings to its victim;
• the size of an adult is from 2 to 3 mm;
• 6 legs, the hind limbs are more developed.

Although it cannot spread from animal to human, the cat flea is a major annoyance for felines. The flea causes excruciating biting pain to its victim, who may also bite themselves due to excruciating scratching. Red crusts cover the body where bites occur, and hair loss may occur, leaving bald patches.

Even though fleas are bothersome in and of themselves, their ability to spread pathogens linked to serious illnesses, such as:

• intestinal yersiniosis;
• pasteurellosis;
• salmonellosis;
• tularemia;
• brucellosis;
• listeriosis, etc.

See also: Why does the cat lose its hind legs and what should be done if its paws become weak?

Preventive measures are the best defense against infection by these bloodsucking arthropods. The cat’s apartment needs to be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. If the pet goes outside, the fur and skin should be checked for parasites following each walk. Using specific flea control products is required; these include collars, sprays, shampoos, and drops.

In the event that the feline has already acquired fleas, they must be removed. To accomplish this, you must:

• disinfect the bedding and cat toys;
• treat the pet with flea drops, spray, or wash with medicated shampoo;
• use antipruritic drugs to relieve symptoms.

Ear mite: photo of affected ear, treatment of otodectosis

For members of the cat family, ear mites pose an equal threat. influences the ear. Once inside the ear canal, it actively consumes the pet’s blood and earwax. The image below displays a telltale sign of a tick infestation: a brown layer covering multiple crusted bites.

An illness of the hearing organs called otodectosis is brought on by ear mites. Its symptoms are distinctive and quite noticeable. If otodectosis is not treated, it can lead to severe consequences such as total hearing loss or otitis media.

How can the illness be properly treated? Initially, the auricle must be cleared of any crusts and plaque. Use cotton swabs and an antiseptic solution to accomplish this. Medicinal drops that need to be injected into the ear canal are part of the therapy. Even if the ear mite’s symptoms are only visibly apparent on one auricle, it is still crucial to treat both ears at once.

The parasite is hazardous because it can live in the inner ear and go undetected for extended periods of time. Ear drops can therefore be used as a preventative measure. Adhere closely to the directions when applying the medication.

Vlavoeda: differences from fleas, methods of destruction

Vlashed (Felicola subrostratus) is a small, wingless arthropolist that has fewer fleas. Particles of cat skin and wool are the source of energy for these parasites. They don’t sucke blood because, unlike lice, they have a gnawing rod apparatus rather than a sucking one. Possess the ability to harbor the eggs of the diphylidiasis-causing ribbon worm, also known as pumpkin tapeworm. They chew on wool and skin fragments. The appearance of bald spots on skin is the primary indicator of infection by the power-eaters.

See also: the reasons behind the phenomenon and what to do when a kitten or adult cat breaks and falls out of a mustache.

Although these parasites can crawl on humans, they do not pose a threat to human health. An integrated approach to the issue is used in treatment, combining medications to combat lice, ticks, and fleas with specialized shampoos, sprays, and ointments.

Ixodid tick: how to detect and remove, what to do next?

One of the most harmful parasites to both humans and pets is the ixodid tick. It is a multi-infection carrier. Encephalitis, borreliosis, poliomyelitis, and other fatal illnesses can be contracted from an infected tick.

A pet may get a tick while strolling through a park, a forest, or even just close to home. The deadliest time of year is from late spring to early summer, when hungry bloodsucking parasites emerge from their hibernation. But the danger is not over until late fall.

The only food source for ixodid ticks is blood. Its black, flat body grows multiple times following a "meal." It typically attaches to the back and head, affecting the chin, neck, and ears.

How can one determine whether a cat has become tick-positive? The animal bite causes a behavioral change in it. The animal is in excruciating pain, is agitated, and might not want to eat or drink. The bite site swells and becomes inflamed.

Treatment entails removing the tick with special tools as soon as possible. Take the patient to the veterinarian if the cat owner is inexperienced in getting rid of bloodsucking parasites. A disinfectant solution is applied to the afflicted region. The tick should then be sent for laboratory analysis to either confirm or deny the presence of pathogens linked to serious illnesses.

If left untreated, parasites that infest cats’ skin and fur can cause a variety of symptoms and result in major health problems. These pests, which range from lice and mites to fleas and ticks, can cause skin irritation, itching, and even more serious illnesses like infections or anemia. The secret to getting your cat the care it needs is to recognize the symptoms early on.

These parasites can cause diseases that can be extremely uncomfortable for your cat and even have an impact on their general health, like flea allergy dermatitis or mange. Fortunately, the majority of these ailments respond well to prescription drugs, shampoos, and other treatments suggested by veterinarians. The best way to keep your cat safe is to practice prevention, such as routine grooming and parasite control.

It’s crucial to speak with a veterinarian if you observe any strange behavior, such as excessive scratching, hair loss, or obvious parasites. Taking quick action will stop the parasites from spreading and ease your cat’s discomfort. Maintaining your cat’s health requires being aware of the risks and taking preventative measures to make sure they are parasite-free.

Numerous parasites, such as fleas, ticks, mites, and lice, can reside in the fur and under the skin of cats. These parasites can be uncomfortable and potentially cause major health issues. In addition to causing itching, hair loss, and skin irritation, these parasites can spread illnesses like skin infections, anemia, and tapeworm infections. Preventing complications requires early detection of symptoms like excessive scratching or visible parasites. Veterinary-prescribed solutions and topical medications are effective treatments that keep your cat healthy and parasite-free.

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