Has your dog (or cat) ever had fleas? These tiny insects can cause a lot of issues for your pet. We answer some questions you may have regarding your pet and fleas:
What are some signs that my dog has fleas?
- Droppings in a dog’s coat, or eggs on the dog or in its environment
- Excessive scratching, licking or biting at skin
- Hair loss
- Scabs
- Pale gums
- Tapeworms
What complications can fleas cause in dogs?
Fleas are able to consume 15 times their own body weight in blood, which means they can cause a significant amount of blood loss over time, and even anemia. This can be especially problematic in young puppies.
Some dogs may also have heightened sensitivity to fleas’ saliva, which means one bite from a flea can cause an allergic reaction, or allergic dermatitis, causing intense itching and discomfort.
What do I do if I think my dog has fleas?
See your veterinarian right away, so that they may confirm the diagnosis and discuss various treatment options. Treatments should be tailored to your individual pet and his or her specific environment. You may also discuss flea prevention strategies for the future.
How do I treat fleas?
- It is important to make sure all of your pets are treated for fleas, including indoor and outdoor cats, and that the surrounding environment is treated as well.
- Speak with your vet about the appropriate treatment method for your pet. Topical liquid treatment, sprays and powders are common. Some treatment materials kill both adult fleas and their eggs, but not all are equally effective. Do not use products on your dog that are intended for cats, and vice versa. Prescription products are usually safer and more effective than over-the-counter products.
- Clean your home thoroughly, including rugs, bedding and upholstery. Discard the vacuum bags when finished. In more severe cases, you should consider using a spray or fogger, which would require temporary evacuation from your home.
How can I prevent fleas?
Washing your dog’s bedding once a week and using a flea comb both work wonders for controlling the infestation of fleas. It is also important to treat your yard the same as you would the indoor of your home: use insecticide or nematodes (microscopic worms that kill flea larvae) on shady areas, where fleas tend to live.
If you suspect your dog or cat has fleas, bring them to the Metropolitan Veterinary Center as soon as possible so we can come up with a treatment and prevention plan for your pet.
Courtesy of the ASPCA
http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/dog-care/fleas
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