Proactive and Thorough: Preventative Care Means Longer, Happier Lives

Parasites are an ongoing concern for cats, whether they live indoors or outdoors. Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can pose a serious health risk to your feline friend. Even indoor cats are at risk, as parasites can enter the home on clothing, other pets, or through open windows. Keeping your cat on parasite prevention year-round is the best way to protect them from harmful diseases.

Flea bites can lead to allergic reactions, severe itching, and even anemia in young kittens. Ticks can carry diseases that affect cats, though less commonly than in dogs. Mosquitoes can transmit heartworm disease, which is particularly dangerous for cats since there is no approved treatment. The best way to minimize your cat's risk is to keep them on parasite prevention for life.

Our Recommended Parasite Preventatives

Our hospital in Annandale carries effective parasite preventatives for cats, including:

  • Bravecto – A flea and tick preventative available as a liquid topical application. One dose protects your cat for up to three months.

For the highest level of protection, we recommend keeping your cat on preventatives all year round. If you're not sure which preventatives to choose for your cat or when to start, we're here to help! Your veterinarian can guide you in creating a long-term prevention plan that ensures your cat stays protected. If your cat has missed a few doses, we can help you get back on track. Call us today at (703) 256-8414.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cat Flea and Tick Prevention

Do indoor cats really need flea and tick prevention?
Yes. Fleas can enter your home on clothing, other pets, or through window screens. Indoor cats in the Annandale area are at real risk, especially during peak flea season from spring through fall — though year-round prevention is safest.

What flea and tick products are safe for cats?
This is critical: many products safe for dogs are toxic to cats. We use veterinary-approved feline products like Revolution Plus, Bravecto for Cats, or Credelio CAT. Never apply a dog flea product to a cat without veterinary guidance.

How do I know if my cat has fleas?
Watch for excessive scratching, small black specks (flea dirt) in their coat, hair loss, or restlessness. Even if you don't see fleas directly, flea dirt on a damp paper towel will turn reddish-brown.

Can cats get tick-borne diseases?
Yes. Cats can contract cytauxzoonosis, tularemia, and other tick-transmitted illnesses. While cats are less commonly tested for tick-borne disease than dogs, prevention is still important.

Is Columbia Pike Animal Hospital open 24/7 for flea or tick concerns?
Yes. We are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with no extra emergency fee. If you find a tick embedded in your cat or notice signs of a reaction, bring them in any time.