As a pet owner, you want to do everything you can to keep your animals healthy. Thankfully, there are some issues you can avoid with a little preparation. Flea infestations are just one example of preventable problems that you can mitigate with some planning and trips to your local animal hospital. Below, the team at Animal Care Center in Elk Grove, CA, shares three tips for reducing the risk of fleas.

How to Avoid Fleas

1. Use Flea Medications

Today there are several available medications for preventing fleas from biting cats and dogs. You can administer them orally, topically, or by using a special shampoo in the bathtub. The drugs work by killing the pests on your pet before they can bite. Your local animal hospital can provide you a list of safe and recommended products.

2. Reduce Potential Contact

Fleas can live just about anywhere, but they are especially likely to show up in areas where there are untreated animals. If you live in a city, it’s a good idea to keep track of any pathways that rats or feral cats may take through your yard. These critters are likely to carry fleas, and if your pet frequents those regions, they can pick up fleas. Set traps, invest in fencing, or call pest control services to safeguard against or eradicate the issue.

3. Keep a Clean Home

Both humans and animals can serve as transport vessels for fleas. By keeping a clean home, you’ll reduce the chances of an infestation and harm to your pets. Vacuuming, sweeping, and throwing out the vacuum bag and swept up debris will remove unwanted guests and prevent them from breeding in your house.

Even with all the best methods in place, accidents happen. If your pet has a flea problem, set up an appointment at your local animal hospital. The staff at Animal Care Center will give them the treatment they need to rid of the bugs. To speak with the team about your concerns, call (916) 686-7393. Visit the website for information on their other services, including dog and cat vaccinations, spaying and neutering, and dental care and grooming. They also provide x-rays, perform routine surgeries and do in-house blood tests to ensure that your furry friends are in top health.