Year Round Flea Preventative!

Year Round Flea PREVENTATIVE!

This week we will be talking about the importance of year round flea control. Even as the temperature drops, staying consistent with flea treatment for all of your animals is an important part of preventative care. This week we will discuss the basics about the flea, the life cycle, and why we recommend flea preventative even in the coldest of seasons.

If your pet is found to have fleas or evidence of fleas (flea "dirt" which is digested blood from your pet) the adult fleas are only the tip of the iceberg. Adult fleas represent only a small proportion of the flea life cycle that is present within your household and outdoor environment.

The life cycle of the flea is significant to understanding how to control an infestation. Adult fleas lay their eggs on their host (your pet), which then can be deposited anywhere your pet goes, especially onto favorite resting spots such as beds, floors, couches, etc. After passing through the larval and pupa stages, fleas will be attracted to their host and jump aboard. In efforts to rid fleas from your pets, measures around your home are just as important as the treatment given to them.

The adult flea represents only 10% of the population that you see. The remaining 90% are found in the form of the egg, pupa and larval stages. These stages are great at hiding in the carpet, areas that are dark and hidden, and therefore more difficult to target.

Using a multi-modal approach to resolving a flea problem or infestation means targeting the adult fleas on your pet, as well as addressing the other stages. Stay tuned this week to learn more basic flea facts as we try and increase awareness of this preventable condition.

Medical Conditions:

Fleas can cause a significant number of medical conditions for your pet, yourself, and your family.

Anemia: Fleas live by taking a blood meal. Many pets with chronic parasitism by fleas become anemic (have lowered blood levels) from their infestation.

Bacterial Disease: Bartonella is a bacteria that can become transmitted by fleas and cause significant medical conditions routinely seen within our feline companions (dogs can be affected as well). This bacteria can cause a number of serious medical conditions for your cat. This bacteria can also become transferred from your pet to you in the frequently termed "Cat Scratch Disease."

Parasitism: Fleas can transfer tapeworms to your pet. Humans are susceptible to tapeworms as well.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis: When fleas bite your pet, they inject their saliva which can cause cause mild to severe itchiness. Some pets are more sensitive than others and can have a severe allergic response resulting in itchiness and often self mutilation by the pet as they try and itch their skin.

Anxiety: Many animals can experience mild to severe anxiety and altered attitude/behavior due to fleas. As the fleas live on the pet as adults as long as they can, they run through the pet's fur which our pets can feel. This constant feeling of having fleas running over their skin can cause a physical anxiety. The feeling of constantly being bitten and having to itch without relief can also cause anxiety. The result of this physical and mental anxiety can result in a pet that has a depressed attitude, seems withdrawn, and less content.

Above are the most commonly seen diseases that come about as a result of a flea problem or infestation. The important thing about all of these diseases is that they are PREVENTABLE! Yes, flea medication from a reputable source such as your veterinarian is expensive. However, as responsible pet owners we are in charge of making sure our pets, and our family is protected against these potential sources of illness. Anemia, bacterial disease, parasitism and flea allergy dermatitis can all result in serious illness and expensive treatment

Flea Treatment:

Fighting a flea problem can be a difficult, costly, and time consuming affair. A multi-modal approach is needed to achieve the best result in the shortest period of time.

The House: Remember a significant portion of the flea problem remains in the eggs, pupas, and larvas around the house. Make sure to clean all bedding, blankets, and toys in the washing machine with hot water. Vacuum more than once a day focusing on the edges of the carpet. Mop the floors at least once a day, and dust all hard floor surfaces. Throw out all vacuum bags.

The Backyard: Contact a pest control agency or pesticide company to find out if a pesticide control outside might help control the flea problem.

Your Pets: Most times people have one than more pet. As fleas survive on the animal, if one animal in the house is affected they most likely all are. A comprehensive flea preventative plan for all animals within the household is needed. Invest in a high quality flea preventative such as Frontline, Revolution, or Vectra for your pet. Each product is slightly different, so be sure to contact your Veterinarian for the best suggestion for your pet and situation.

In severe situations, calling in a pesticide company may be necessary to relieve the problem. Remember that treating a flea problem takes time! The best way to prevent a problem is by using a year round flea control product for your pet without fail!

Dr. Santspree