Hello,
This is flea dirt you are seeing. What we commonly call 'dirt' is actually the flea 'droppings' which consist of blood it sucked from our pets. That is why, once wet, redness can be seen to it before it disintegrates.
I would start using frontline or advantage immediately, and make sure you apply it at least 2 months in a row to kill any fleas at all stages of their life cycle. If you have other cats/dogs in the household, they too should be treated. You should also, once the topical med is applied, clean all bedding the cat has been on to kill any larvae (normal washing) and vaccuum your floors, immediately disposing of the vaccuum bag outside of the home. This will ensure you've gotten rid of larvae.
As for her breathe, an unrelated topic, at her age and with her breed, she is likely due for a dental exam and possible cleaning.
Best wishes,
Christine
She has never been out of my apartment except for grooming in the spring. She sleeps everywhere..on my bed, on the furniture, on the carpet.. Is there anything I can spray?
Is it true Frontline can have bad side effects?
thank you so much for your help. I'm on a fixed income (soc. sec) & a trip to the vet is way beyond my budget.
Thanks again
E. Gesell
Unless you have never been outdoors either, fleas easily get indoors. Sprays are not safe nor effective in most cases, while frontline is one of the safest products you can use. True, as with any medication, it can cause side effects, like rare instances of irritation to the site applied or allergic reaction, but these occur extremely unfrequently as compared to products like Hartz which often cause neurological damage.
Certified Veterinary Technician
Licensed veterinary technician (B.S. Mercy College), 10 yrs in animal medicine and training