Spring brings warmer weather and outdoor fun—but it also brings pests. It is the beginning of flea season, which can wreak havoc on your pet and family. To keep your spring and summer flea-free, contact your veterinarian in D’Iberville, MS. Experienced professionals will provide flea prevention or elimination for your pet. As you prepare for this season and your visit, keep the following in mind.
What it means to be a flea
They may be small, but they are mighty. Flees can jump 10,000 times in a row. This easily covers not only the entire length of your pet, but every room of your home. They can live and feed on any part of your pet’s body. Their lifespan is from two weeks to three months. These traits combine to form an extremely pesky pest. They are harmful to your pet’s health, and they easily invade your entire living space.
How to see a flea
These tiny parasites are only one to three millimeters long. It is not likely you will spot them directly. However, they do leave tell-tale signs. If your pet exhibits excessive scratching, biting or licking at their skin, they probably have fleas. You may also notice “flea dirt” on your pet’s fur. This is made up of droppings or flea eggs on your pet’s coat. Bites from the fleas can also leave scabs and hot spots and cause hair loss or allergic dermatitis (red spots where the skin is raw).
Your pet may also become anemic. As they are parasites, fleas live off your pet’s blood. They can consume 15 times their body weight. If your pet has pale gums and reduced energy, they may be anemic.
Make fleas flee
If you suspect your pet has fleas, it is important to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian in D’Iberville, MS. Flea medication is available to eliminate the problem. In fact, getting your pet on a flea medication before infestation occurs can prevent the problem altogether. Many products are also available, including sprays, shampoos and dips. Your veterinarian can recommend the best proactive solution for your pet.
In addition to treating your pet, you must treat your home. Fleas can easily make their way from your animal to your surroundings, so thorough cleaning is necessary. Blankets and rugs used by your pet must be laundered in hot, soapy water, or replaced entirely. Carpets and furniture should be vacuumed thoroughly, and vacuum contents disposed of immediately. If infestation was heavy, you may need to apply insecticides to any areas where fleas may be present.
To prevent infestations, treat the outdoors as well. Fleas thrive in moist, dark areas. Take steps to ensure you have no standing water or overly soaked areas in your yard. You may also consider using pest control sprays, especially in shaded wet areas.
Flee to your veterinarian in D’Iberville, MS
Make your flea season more enjoyable for you and your pet by skipping it altogether. Take proactive steps to avoid infestations on your pet and in your home. Contact D’Iberville Veterinary Hospital to schedule a checkup, pre-treatment or to get additional information about how to keep your pet flea-free.