Allergy Spotlight: Fleas

Another common cause of allergies is fleas. These insects can be highly irritating to both animals and their humane counterparts. The allergic response typically comes from the protein founding flea saliva. This begins the cycle of itching that is very difficult to stop. The good news about flea allergies is that they can be managed with monthly preventatives!

 

Flea dirt found on pets (photo source)

Flea allergies typically result in an intense itching with hair loss. In dogs this is typically located near the base of the tail but can extend to anywhere the fleas start biting. Cats are a little more difficult, there is no one pattern of itching they demonstrate but will sometimes get scabs all over the body.

 

Flea Life Cycle (photo source)

The most important part of treatment is removing the fleas. Otherwise any medications used to treat the secondary itching are not going to work. It is necessary to treat all animals in the household even if they are not showing symptoms. Treating the environment is also a good idea. Female fleas are very proficient at laying eggs and therefore the environment can become infested very quickly! The flea life cycle makes it difficult to kill all life stages with just one product. Vacuuming and washing bedding in warm water can help decrease the population. Remember when vacuuming once emptying the canister take that outside to dispose of it so that the fleas do not just go right back into the house.

 

Flea allergies (photo source)

Any pets with allergies NEED to be on an effective flea preventative. We can’t control the pollen counts but we can control their exposure to fleas. It is a good idea to stay on monthly prevention year round as some winters are milder than other. Also remember that our houses are typically kept warm during the winter so if the fleas are already in the house, they will continue to thrive even in the winter.

 

Photo Source

Flea preventatives come in a variety of shapes and sizes. While many products can be found over the counter it is extremely important to work with your veterinarian to ensure that the product is safe for you pet and effective against the fleas.

 

Photo Source

Although this may seem more like a nuisance than anything else, it is extremely important to remember that fleas can kill pets. With heavy infestations or if the pet is already ill the fleas can actually make patients so anemic they die. Preventing infestations or breaking the life cycle early can help prevent serious consequences in the long run.

For more information on fleas you can visit Veterinary Partner’s website here and here.