You may notice that your dogs and cats are scratching and biting at their skin more than they usually do. In many cases, this is a common sign that your pet has fleas or ticks. If left untreated, the bites may become sore, infected, and cause your animals to become ill. Here are a few ways to tell if your pets have fleas and ticks.

4 Signs Your Animals Have Pests on Them

1. Missing Hair

Alopecia areata is a common symptom of having fleas and ticks, and this condition occurs when the affected areas are repeatedly licked, bitten, and scratched, which weakens the hair follicles and causes shedding. If your dogs or cats suddenly begin to lose large clumps of hair on their bodies, they may be housing pests and need to be treated.

2. Unusual Behavior

When your furry friends have fleas and ticks, they may excessively scratch, lick, or gnaw at their skin to soothe the irritation from bites. If these pests have caused an infection, your animals may become less energetic and show signs of exhaustion.

3. Anemia

When problems become severe, your pets may lose blood from the bites and develop anemia. Some signs of this condition are muscle loss, fatigue, and pale gums. Relieve these symptoms by taking your pets to the vet for antibiotics, and prevent future issues by giving your furry friends parasite prevention medication.

4. Flea Dirt

This substance is flea fecal matter, and it resembles small black or brown specks that may be on your pet’s fur or skin. Even if you don’t see the insects themselves, the presence of flea dirt indicates the need to have a veterinarian give your pets an oral or topical treatment.

Keep fleas and ticks off your furry friends by scheduling organic pest control from Dick’s Fumigation Services in Wailuku, HI. For over 65 years, these professionals have helped Maui homeowners remove insects from their property and keep them away with routine treatments. They use nontoxic products to ensure household members, including cats and dogs, aren’t harmed by pest control chemicals. Learn more about their services online, or call (808) 244-7496 to make an appointment.