Fleas, ticks and mosquitoes can bring more harm to your cat than annoying itching and scratching. Below are 6 common diseases and conditions that are spread by these tiny troublemakers. The good news is, there is one easy way to help make sure your cat doesn't experience any of them: Prevention!

Allergies
Flea bites are the #1 cause of skin allergies in cats. Pets are often allergic to flea saliva, which results in itching, hot spots, hair loss and superficial wounds from excessive scratching. Help your pet avoid the misery of allergic reactions to flea bites by starting a safe, effective flea prevention regimen with Flea5X Plus for Cats or Advantage II. If your cat is already experiencing allergies, ask your vet about Atopica.

Tapeworms
Tapeworms are typically transmitted to cats when they ingest fleas, which usually happens when cats self-groom or chew at itchy flea bites. Tapeworms can grow to be six inches in length, invading the digestive tract. These parasites often have as many as 90 segments. Segments break off and can sometimes be seen in the stool or around the rectum of infected cats. When infected, your cat may show signs of mild illness and weight loss. Remove tapeworms and restore your cat's digestive health with de-wormers such as these.

Heartworms
Transmitted by mosquitoes, heartworms are a deadly infection for which there is no cure for cats. It is vital that you protect your cat from these invasive parasites that can grow up to 12 inches in length and compromise your cat's heart and lung function.

Skin infections
When your cat scratches due to flea or mosquito bites, skin infections may result. Treat superficial skin irritations and infections with quality topical wound cleansing products and bathe irritated skin using PetMeds Oatmeal and Aloe Vera Shampoo.

Scratching misery
The scratching that results from flea and mosquito bites can make your cat miserable. Hair loss, painful skin irritation and possible infections make the situation even worse. Soothe your cat's sore, itchy skin with specially formulated shampoos, conditioners and topical sprays created to reduce redness and irritation. Also, supplementing your cat's diet with Omega 3 fatty acids can help improve skin health.

Lyme disease
Ticks are carriers of Lyme disease, which can cause heart, kidney, and neurological problems. Protect your cat against Lyme disease by beginning a regimen of monthly flea and tick prevention.