Christine,
From D.G. Carlson D.V.M. and J.M. Giffin, M.D., "Cat Owner's
Home Veterinary Handbook," Howell Book House, 1983, p. 98:
"Fleas ... In most cases they cause only a mild itch;
but a heavy infestation might cause a severe anemia or
even the death of a cat."
Based on other reading, and personal observation, I have
come to learn that the severity of allergic reactions in
a given animal, in response to a particular stimulus,
can vary over time.
It is quite common to see sensitivity increase with
continued exposures, although sometimes the opposite
occurs, particularly with "childhood allergies."
When allergic flea dermatitis occurs, the condition
can be progressive. First, there is hair loss and
reddening of the skin. Then, ulcers will develop.
If these develop bacterial infections and the cat
is weakened due to anemia, death within a few weeks
seems distinctly possible.
David |
