any suggestions for mild flea treatment for aged, sick kitty?

[Grasswire2]

She's holding on, with mammary cancer the primary and incurable problem. Actually improved slightly the last two days in terms of drinking water, alertness, etc. See my prior thread.

I discovered today when combing her that she has some fleas. I was shocked. I don't know whether to look for some product or to just comb her daily.

Her remaining time here is days, or maybe some weeks. I just want her to be as comfortable as possible. And I'm sure that ADVANTAGE would be the wrong thing.

[hlthe2b]

1. Flea comb and even a bath with mild pet shampoo will kill what is on her and is safest.

but even a flea shampoo will not repel fleas from coming back. Only kills what is on her. But she'll be clean and free of live fleas for the moment.

The problem is if she goes back outside or if she's brought them inside--in which case you are going to need to wash bedding and treat areas where she has been.

Given her frailty that would be the safest. But it will obviously afford her no repellent for further fleas. But if she is that sick I wouldn't think you'd be letting her outside where she could be reinfested.

Good luck and may you treasure your time with her.

[Grasswire2]

8. she's indoor only

ever since we brought her home from the shelter years ago.

I don't know why/how she would have any fleas unless they came here on someone's shoes.

She isn't really happy being combed, but it must be better than feeling fleas (if she does feel them at her state).

[Faux pas]

2. ...

Diatomaceous earth. I put it in a salt shaker and lightly sprinkle some one my kitty's fur and rub it in. Peaceful vibes to you and you kitty.

[Grasswire2]

9. ooh, never thought of that.

Worth a try. Thanks.

[irisblue]

3. Tonight, Dawn dishwashing liquid & tomorrow ask your vet for Capstar

Capstar will kill fleas within half hour.

[hlthe2b]

11. Capstar is safe for HEALTHY pets only. Active ingredient: (Nitenpyram)

this is a cat with end-stage cancer and any of the possible side effects could be dangerous:
Lethargy.
Depression.
Vomiting.
Diarrhea.
Decreased appetite.
Hyperactivity.
Trembling.
Neurologic signs (such as seizures or incoordination)
From its own label: Serious side effects (such as seizures, incoordination, or death) are more likely in animals that weigh less than 2 pounds, are younger than 8 weeks of age, or are already in poor health.

The poster was looking for the safest option for what he believes is a very short term need.

[bamagal62]

13. Sorry. I'll delete

[judesedit]

4. Food grade diatomaceous earth. Poor little thing.

Must be food grade. Safe enough to eat. Research it real quick. I used to use it on my golden retriever. Externally and internally. Not toxic

[hlthe2b]

12. Yes. this can be a safe natural option in small amoutns.

[Deuxcents]

5. I once brought home 2 baby kitty brothers that were flea bitten

I washed them in Neutrogena body wash..towel dried em n did it again the next day. Fleas gone. Whatever you choose, should be mild for your older kitty ... I know you know that, I’m just saying no chemicals if she’s on meds. Just keep her comfortable n love on her n she’ll feel better. 🐾

[BigmanPigman]

6. When both of my dogs were older and dying they got fleas.

The vet told me that due to aging their bodies can't fight pests so I got flea pills for older pets and it did the trick right away. They are expensive though, but I would pay $1,000,000 to help my babies. I only needed two tablets and the fleas were gone. Well worth the price. I forget the name of the meds since I gave the left over pills to my mom for her dog. Any legitimate vet should know the pills though.

[Grasswire2]

10. thanks everyone......so much!

And for edification of those who didn't know about mammary cancer in shelter cats...

I learned just after I saw the tumor that female shelter cats who were not spayed earlier but only spayed when they were taken in by the shelter in mid-life have a much, much higher potential for developing breast cancer.

I did not know that about middle-aged female cats who hadn't been spayed. High risk for mammary cancer.

My sweet Kitty is so loving that I knew she had been a mama with babies. She lived with five other cats, and so it must have been a circus. Haha.