Fleas can cause problems for pets ranging from minor to life-threatening. Not only can these parasites cause severe itching, irritation, and allergies, but they can also transmit tapeworms and diseases. Fleas can infest dogs, cats, rabbits, mice, and rats. And fleas don’t just stay on pets; they can bite people, too. For more information, contact us or see the flea article in the Pet Health Library on our site.
You don’t want these blood-sucking parasites on your pet or in your home. We can help keep them away or help you get rid of them if they’ve already found their way inside. Call us to find out how to eliminate and control fleas or to start your pet on a preventive today.
Fleas are active after 13 degrees, and typically we will see more cases in the spring, summer and fall months. However, if someone lives in a multi-dwelling building (apartment, townhouse, condo) it should be recommended to keep cats/dogs covered year round as fleas don’t respect closed doors.
If fleas are brought into the household, it can take up to 3 months to completely get rid of the infestation. The patient should be treated, the house should be treated, and it is recommended to wash any bedding/blankets where pets are sleeping. Areas where people are not walking should be cleaned as well, under beds/couches/closets, as that is where the fleas will lay their eggs.
Fleas are not just annoying, they can cause health concerns such as anemia, flea allergy dermatitis, can transmit intestinal parasites, etc.
