Where there are pets, you’ll often also find fleas. Unfortunately, our furry friends make great hosts for fleas because of their warm bodies and their fur. But that doesn’t make them any less annoying.
Because fleas are both irritating and potentially dangerous, it’s important to know how to tackle them. There’s often a surge in flea infestations over the summer months, too, so it’s vital to be informed – and every pet owner needs to know how to get rid of fleas.
Dr Aimee Warner, resident veterinarian at Waggel, offer six tips to help keep your pets safe this summer, so let’s take a look:
1. Watch for signs beyond scratching
“Scratching is common but not the only sign,” says Dr Warner. “Watch for red, inflamed skin, hair loss, flea droppings (black specks in the fur), and behavioral changes like irritability or restlessness. Some dogs also suffer allergic reactions to flea bites."
2. Treat pet and home alike
Because fleas spend most of their life in the environment rather than on your pet, make sure you treat the furniture, bedding, and carpets – there could be hundreds of fleas earlier in the life cycle hiding there.
3. Keep on top of your prevention routine
Dr Warner advises grooming your pet with a fine-toothed flea comb on a regular basis, as well as washing their bedding in hot water each week and vacuuming frequently. Seal and dispose of vacuum bags as soon as you can.
4. Create a flea-resistant environment
"Keep your garden maintained as fleas thrive in shady, moist areas with organic debris,” says Dr Warner. “Regularly mow lawns, remove leaf litter, and restrict wildlife access to your yard when possible, as wild animals can introduce fleas to your environment."
5. Choose the best products for your pets
Products prescribed by your vet can often be more effective than those you buy over the counter – and can be tailored to your pet’s lifestyle, too. If you’re concerned about the impact of flea treatments on the environment, too, you may want to ask your vet about eco-conscious alternatives. Here’s our pick of the best flea treatments for dogs and best flea treatments for cats – and, remember the dog fleas vs cat fleas differences.
6. Keep on top of things throughout the year
While the summer can often be worse, fleas also enjoy homes with central heating, so you might find them in the winter, too.
“Skipping treatments in colder months can lead to a resurgence when you least expect it,” explains Dr. Warner.
With many fleas carrying tapeworms and bacteria – among other things – keeping on top of fleas is vital to keeping everyone safe.
Dr Warner summarizes: “The health implications of fleas extend far beyond your pet. By implementing proper prevention measures, you're protecting your entire household. The minor cost and effort of regular flea treatment are insignificant compared to dealing with a full-blown infestation or treating diseases they transmit."
Read next: Why isn’t my flea treatment working?
