As the most common external parasite affecting our pets, fleas can make your pet miserable! Left untreated, they could even lead to infections and cause serious diseases. Our Seattle vets explain how to spot signs of fleas, and what to do if your pet does have fleas.
About Fleas
Fleas are external parasites that rely on a host animal for survival. Unless their lifecycle is broken by treatment, adult fleas will continue to reproduce and thrive on your pet – and in your household.
What are some signs of flea infestation?
Cats and dogs may have allergic reactions to the proteins present in flea saliva, which is why they often start to scratch as soon as a flea bites their skin. Even one fleabite can cause severe scratching and building agitation.
Besides scratching, red bumps or pimples may appear on their belly, at the base of their tail or on their rump, groin, or under their legs. The constant itching and scratching of these areas will cause dry skin and hair loss. Lesions and infection can develop and lead to more severe diseases if fleas are left untreated.
How can I check my pet for fleas?
Adult fleas are small and brown, making them fairly easy to spot with the naked eye.
It's a good idea to check your pet's brush or comb while you're grooming them. Having your pet lie on their side will let you have a closer look at areas with thin hair, such as the abdomen.
You may see 'flea dirt' (flea feces), which looks similar to tiny grains of sand or damp black pepper. To check for flea dirt, use a fine-tooth flea comb available at your vet's office to comb along your pet's back and underbelly. By standing your pet on a white towel or cloth while brushing them, you will be able to easily see any black droppings that fall from their fur.
What if I don't see fleas, but my pet is still itchy?
If there are no signs of fleas but your pet is still scratching, schedule an appointment with your vet, who can administer a skin test to check for flea allergies, in addition to other types of allergies during your visit. Your pet may be reacting to another type of allergy that's making them uncomfortable.
How do I get rid of fleas?
A number of safe and effective treatments can be used to eliminate fleas, including shampoos, sprays, powders and topical liquids. You may need to visit your vet for prescription creams and antibiotics if your pet's case is more severe.
Early treatment and prevention are the first methods of choice to ensure your dog doesn't develop more serious issues in the future, as a result of fleas.