I'm really at a loss here and could use some advice! Over the past few months, I've started caring for a small group of feral cats that frequent my backyard. They've become part of my daily routine, and I've slowly earned their trust with some food and gentle interactions. I've noticed they're all infested with fleas, and I really want to help them out. I've heard that Credelio is effective, but I'm not sure how to go about getting a prescription given their status as feral cats. I've never taken them to a vet before because they aren’t exactly domesticated, but I want to find a way to make them more comfortable. Has anyone out there dealt with something similar? What’s the best way to approach this situation, and how can I go about getting them the treatment they need? Any advice or experiences would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks for reaching out with your question! It’s wonderful that you're caring for feral cats, and your concern for their health is commendable. Credelio is a prescription medication used to prevent flea and tick infestations, but it’s primarily approved for use in dogs. While there are flea control options for cats, observing feral cats closely enough to administer medications can be challenging.
First things first, if these cats have fleas, you might see them scratching frequently or notice flea dirt—tiny black specks that look like pepper in their fur. Fleas can also cause skin irritation, so keep an eye out for any signs of redness or hair loss.
For safe at-home care, you can use flea combing as a gentle method to help reduce flea numbers. Also, maintaining the cats' environment by regularly cleaning their bedding area can help manage flea populations.
However, when it comes to medicating feral cats, it’s crucial to consult with a vet who can guide you on the safest and most effective treatments for their circumstances. If you notice any signs of severe infestation such as anemia (which might show as pale gums), lethargy, or noticeable weight loss, it’s vital to seek veterinary attention promptly.
I'd recommend booking a video consult with a vet via Dial A Vet to discuss the best and most humane approach for treating and caring for these particular feral cats.
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