Flea treatments for my cat -worry about chemicals?

[ReluctantEmptyNester]

I read recently that some flea treatments have chemicals. Is this true? Do you think they could be harmful? My cat is always being cuddled and stroked by my children, I allow it to happen though, what do other mums do?

All reputable flea treatments contain chemicals of some kind - or they would not work. The best thing to do is to try and not touch the area you apply it to until it has dried (takes about 24hrs) - and if you do touch it, just wash your hands. Try and use a product with a smaller volume of fluid (Advocate tends to be better than Frontline for this).
If you are very worried about your children having contact with it, there are other products you can use instead - a Seresto collar for example which lasts for 8mths. alternatively there are injections for flea control (Program) or tablets (Comfortis). All have their pros and cons depending on your cats lifestyle - your vet is the best person to ask.