Because fleas and ticks are often lumped together when talking about pet-related pests, fleas are often overlooked as a serious threat. When we think of ticks, we think of Lyme disease and infection. When we think of fleas, however, we typically only think of annoying itching. Unfortunately, this thought process is off base. If you have a major flea problem on your property visit getridofpests.com to learn how to get rid of them.
Fleas are responsible for more than mildly itchy skin. They can even be fatal to all kinds of animals. Read on to learn about various problems resulting from flea infestations and to explore solutions for your pet and home.
Flea Problems
Small animals are particularly at risk of flea-related health consequences because they have less blood to lose. The more fleas that infect an animal’s body, the more likely they are to suffer from anemia. Even larger pets may face this problem if targeted by a significant number of fleas.
Additionally, flea bites can wreak a lot of damage on the skin of your pet, causing lesions, rashes, and infections. If you notice your pet itching more than usual or losing fur, check for fleas. Fleas also spread bacteria, which can lead to a variety of health concerns.
A present concern is that fleas reproduce very quickly and can spread from animal to animal with ease before spreading to the rest of your home. They imbed themselves in carpet, furniture, hair, and more. This makes them difficult to kill if you are unable to catch the problem fast.
Even indoor pets can pick up fleas. They are small enough to fit through gaps in doors and windows, or you may even inadvertently carry them in on your person. They do not prefer the taste of human blood, so if you find yourself being bitten you likely already have a full-blown infestation.
Pet Treatments
Prevention is the easiest method, but not always guaranteed to fully prevent exposure. Flea collars and other treatments can be picked up from your local pet or grocery store for a reasonable cost. Your vet can also prescribe an oral medication with consideration for your pet’s weight. Prescription flea and tick medications are more reliable than store-bought prevention methods.
Fleas also hate water. Bathing a flea-ridden dog with medicated flea shampoo can help. This should not be done over often, and not at all with cats. Some local groomers even offer “flea dip” services.
Take care not to take your pet anywhere that they may spread fleas to other pets, like pet stores or dog parks. Your vet may also advise that you do not bring an infested pet into their office and may offer guidance over the phone.
Household Solutions
Flea infestations can quickly take over your home. Some geographic areas have higher flea and tick populations. In these places, home and business owners may choose to hire pest control specialists to treat lawns, gardens, and inside buildings.
Pest control specialists offer flea and tick bombs for the inside of your home and can even spray your lawn. Flea bombs normally only need to be done once or twice at most to thoroughly rid your home of all fleas. Lawn spraying is usually done on a regular basis to prevent the return of seasonal fleas and other pests.
Any services for the home to address existing flea problems should be done around the same time as flea treatments for your pet to avoid them picking up again. Fleas are a tricky pest to get rid of, so it is crucial to act quickly. If your pet has fleas, act now to obtain a flea treatment and avoid a bigger issue.