During the warmer months, fleas are particularly common. They make pet’s lives itchy and uncomfortable, and like any pet owner, you want to keep fleas from bothering your pet and moving into your home. Those little insects are no fun, certainly not for your pets, who can bite and scratch themselves raw trying to nail the pesky pests. Learn here some information that might help you!
Fleas are really tiny parasitic insects that infest the coat and skin of pets. They can jump a really long length, making the transfer of fleas between your pets difficult to prevent. Those jumping skills also allow them to transit easily from the surroundings to your pet.
The scratching, the biting at the fur, maybe even the big patches of irritated skin all point to fleas. Itching is actually one of the first signs of a flea infestation in your pet. If you have inspected your pet’s coat, you will likely see one or more fleas moving around on the surface of your pet’s skin. You may also notice tiny black particles that look like dirt which could be flea droppings.
The number one cause of skin disease in pets is caused by fleas, it can cause problems such as simple itchiness to infections. Also because some pets might be allergic to flea bites (this condition is known as Flea Allergy Dermatitis), one bite can set off an auto-immune reaction, and all skin conditions should require vet treatment.
You should know that there are different ways a flea can present itself, such as:
Eggs – one flea can lay 30 eggs per day, which can drop off into carpets and bedding even before hatching.
Larvae – the eggs release larvae that feed on organic debris and at this stage can consume tapeworm eggs, allowing them to become an intermediate host for the development of tapeworms.
Adult Fleas – jump onto your dog or cat, feed on their blood, and then start laying eggs.
HAIR LENGTH OF YOUR PET
If you have a long-haired pet, it's easier for pests to hide there, you should consider having your pet shaved down or trimmed a little bit for the summer, that way it will make it easier to spot problems.
SOLUTIONS
It is important that you choose the right type of treatment for your pet and follow the instructions, it needs to be according to their breed or species, and the size of your pet. Plus, you need to learn how to administrate the treatment the right way and carry on as long as your pet needs it.
VISIT THE VET
A veterinarian is your most supportive partner for the health of your pet. At Salazar Veterinary Hospital, we will be able to give you advice and helpful information on any flea problems including spotting them, dealing with them, and preventing more infestations. Our experienced and knowledgeable team at Salazar Veterinary Hospital in Orlando understands everything that there is to know about fleas, including how to prevent them. If your pet is scratching or has skin damage, it is best to have them checked by a vet. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions that you may have, we will assist you in choosing the product most suitable for your pet.
