Every pet owner has likely had a chat with their veterinarian about flea prevention. These pesky parasites, no more than 3 mm in length, latch onto cats and dogs and wreak havoc on their health. There are ways to treat flea infestations, but the key to protecting your pet is prevention. The following guide answers some of the most pressing questions pet owners have about fleas.

Questions Pet Owners Have About Fleas

How Can I Detect Fleas on My Pet?

Their tiny size makes them difficult to spot, but there are notable ways to spot fleas on pets. Fleas often leave small black specks of feces behind in animal coats. Comb your pet over white towels, and if you find any black specks, run a bit of water over them; flea dirt will turn a reddish-brown shade when wet. Another way you can detect fleas is by watching your pets behavior. Some pets don’t react noticeably beyond some extra scratching, but others are allergic to flea saliva. Watch for patches of hair loss, infections, and excessive itching.

Are Fleas Really That Dangerous?

Other than giving your pet an uncomfortable itch and potential allergic reactions, fleas carry infectious diseases and tapeworms. They can also spread murine typhus, a disease communicable to humans. Because your pet could be exposed to these conditions as soon as the first flea bites, it’s important to do all you can to prevent them in the first place.

How Can Fleas Be Prevented?

Luckily, the risk of fleas is easily minimized with medication recommended from your veterinarian. There are many commercial methods of flea control available. Topical treatments, tablets, and environmental sprays are all excellent ways to prevent the spread of fleas, particularly when used together. Depending on your pet’s lifestyle and location, your veterinarian may give you a customized prevention plan.

What Should I Do if My Pet Has Fleas?

If your pet is already affected, treatment will be a challenge, but it is possible to get flea problems back under control. Take your pet to a veterinarian as soon as you discover any signs of fleas. They will likely give you multiple medications you’ll need to use in conjunction, since most products are only effective against particular life stages of fleas. Additionally, getting rid of fleas on your pet will not eliminate the problem. If your pet has fleas, chances are that your home does too. You’ll need to use an environmental spray to clear your home of these pests completely.

For efficient parasite prevention, control, and treatment, turn to Pet Center Ltd. in Boone County, MO. This veterinary clinic has been dedicated to improving the quality of pets’ lives for over 30 years. Their full-service center provides top-notch pet preventative care, thorough routine wellness exams, advanced pharmaceuticals, and an expert team of animal lovers. Your veterinarian will offer the best possible care to keep your pet active and healthy. To schedule an appointment, call (573) 445-3000, or visit their website to learn more about their services.