Cat Tick Collar

By Katie Appleby

Collars are a simple and quick way of controlling tick infestation. There are safe on kittens as well as adults cats, and give them with much needed respite from the scratching and itching caused by ticks. Collars are available in all sizes and fits cats of different sizes.

Cat tick collars play an effective role in killing ticks, but should be properly applied. A cat must feel comfortable in a tick collar. So make the perfect measurement by placing two fingers between the neck and the collar. Cut off all surplus parts from the collar after it has been applied properly. This is to prevent the animals from chewing its ends.

Read the instructions given on the packet. Many collars lose effectives upon getting wet. Check if the collar is causing irritation. If so, you may have to use a different product.

Never use collars which contain amitraz, organophosphates or permethrin on cats. Instead use collars containing pyrethroids or carbamates as they are safer for your cat.

Remember to get rid of ticks, the tick has to actively contact with the ingredient. For example, the tick needs to come near the collar and feed on the pet. Only then will the insecticide enter the tick and kill it. An effective tick collar can wipe out the ticks in a matter of 24 hours or even less. This will reduce the danger of transmitting diseases caused by ticks.

The collar must be loosely worn, but secure enough to stop easy removal. Leave sufficient length for the collar to expand, especially for kittens, as a cat will keep growing.

Replace the collar once every four months. Do not use it on sick and nursing cats not on aged and pregnant ones. Repeat treatment only if tick problem persists.

You can make a naturally effective tick collar made from essential oils. Choose absorbent collars that will soak up essential oils. Use oil that is 100% pure, such oils repel ticks. Use an eyedropper, as just one or two drops will be enough. In case the cat is sensitive to strong smells, start with one drop and gradually increase it to two. Avoid citronella as cats are hyper-perceptive to citrus.

The efficacy of tick collars depends on factors such as the climate and mode of utilization. Heat, light, rain, irregular use will reduce a collars effectiveness. The collar needs to be worn constantly for good results.

Katie Appleby is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about cat tick collars, please visit Tick Treatment Now for current articles and discussions.