Dr. Dan Christian specializes in small animal medicine, with special interests in behavior and nutrition. He has been instrumental in establishing animal behavior residencies for veterinarians at leading veterinary schools and developing innovative programs with veterinary organizations in the United States. He is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association, the American Animal Hospital Association, and the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association. During his professional career, Dr. Christian earned the American Association of Feline Practitioners Award. He has also appeared as a guest on television and radio pet health programs nationwide, and to has authored numerous articles for pet health magazines.

Q: My one-year-old cat has had major problems with fleas. We've used every shampoo imaginable, and even had to go to the extreme of flea bombing our room several times. I'm keeping him indoors from now on, and I was wondering, will that stop all the fleas? His fleas have started biting me, and if I can't stop the fleas then I'll have to give him up. Please help!

A: Fleas are definitely a nuisance for most of us pet owners, not to mention for our pets! Not only to they cause discomfort with all the biting and scratching our pets do to help relieve the irritation, they also can cause allergic reactions on the skin, as well as carry parasite eggs (tapeworms develop when the flea is ingested by your pet).

But don't give up. You can eliminate fleas, if you are persistent and patient. Shampoos and powders are good for getting the fleas off our pets, but you must be vigilant in the environment as well. Clean all carpeting, bedding and treat the yard with flea products designed for that particular area. And there are new, nontoxic monthly treatments for fleas, designed to kill the adult flea when it comes into contact with your pet. Your veterinarian is the best source for developing a complete flea elimination program for you and your cat. Since every environment and pet are different, your veterinarian will be able to tailor the program just for you -- and from there prevention will be much easier.

Once the environment your pet lives in is free of fleas, keeping your cat indoors should prevent any more fleas from hitching a ride into your home. It's healthier and safer for your cat, too.