What Is Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)?

To provide the best possible care for your cat, it’s important to be familiar with common threats to their health. Do you know about flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)? FAD is common in cats, so it should be common knowledge among cat owners. Here are answers to the FAQs on FAD.

What is FAD?

Flea allergy dermatitis is a cat skin disease. Specifically, it is an eczematous itchy disease. FAD is the most common cause of skin diseases in cats.

What are the symptoms of FAD?

Cats who suffer from FAD may suffer from a variety of skin problems. Affected animals react harshly to chemicals in flea saliva. They may develop redness, bumps and scabs on their skin. Hair loss may also occur in severe cases. The FAD may also lead to feline eosinophilic granuloma, miliary dermatitis or alopecia.

What causes FAD?

The cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis, is the most common pest to infest cats and cause this condition. The cat suffers an allergic response to the flea’s saliva, causing one flea bite to persist and result in significant trauma.

How is FAD treated?

When treating FAD, the goal is to relieve the itching and remove the fleas. The condition may also cause bacterial or yeast infections which must also be treated in order to eliminate the itch. To remove fleas, options include flea foggers, vacuuming, flea bombs and washing pet beds in a hot cycle. For on-pet treatment, your cat clinic in Alexandria, VA can recommend the best product to safely use on your cat.

What should I do if I suspect my cat has FAD?

If your cat is showing symptoms of FAD, contact your local cat care clinic in Alexandria, VA. They can examine your cat to look for signs of flea bites and recommend the best solution. If you have other pets in the home, all animals should be examined for signs of FAD and treated with flea-prevention methods.

How can I prevent FAD?

Of course, the best solution for FAD is to prevent your furry friend from experiencing it in the first place. To prevent flea bites, use a year-round, veterinarian-recommended flea control product. This might be a topical product or a chewable pill. This medication will stop fleas from attacking your cat and causing harm due to FAD. Consult with your cat care clinic in Alexandria, VA to choose the best flea prevention product for your cat.

Protect Your Pet

To find out more about FAD or other potential hazards to your pet’s health, contact the professionals at Kingstowne Cat Clinic. As your trusted local cat care clinic in Alexandria, VA, we offer in-depth expertise in all things cat-related. If you suspect your cat is suffering from FAD, don’t hesitate to contact us to get your pet some necessary relief. We would love to partner with you to help keep your furry friend healthy, happy and safe. Visit our clinic or give us a call with any questions. We look forward to meeting you and your feline friend!

Categorised in: Cat Clinic

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