Are fleas a vet emergency?
Fleas are NOT a medical emergency unless your pet is lethargic, pale, or inappetent.
What do vets recommend to get rid of fleas?
Some vets recommend sprinkling non-toxic Borax powder on all carpeted surfaces before vacuuming as a means of “suffocating” some of the fleas beforehand. If your pet’s bed is washable, wash it (including the stuffing!) on the hottest setting available to you, then dry in an extra-hot dryer.
What happens when you have a flea infestation?
The whole thing of dealing with fleas makes most people itch all over. No wonder: these are really nasty, disgusting little bugs. Not only will they crawl on your pets and suck their blood, but they can also jump on you and bite you, causing much scratching and allergic reactions.
What kind of diseases can you get from fleas?
Don’t be negligent in flea extermination! Besides being a real nuisance to you and your pets, these bugs can cause FAD (flea allergy dermatitis), carry and spread such serious diseases as tapeworms, cat scratch fever, typhus, and bubonic plague.
How can I tell if my dog has a flea problem?
If your pet is losing patches of hair, scratching excessively or developing scabs, you might have a flea problem on your hands. If you part the hair of your pet, you may see the insects running and trying to hide.
Is it safe to use flea preventative on cats?
For the safe use of a product, be sure to use the correct amount for your size and type of pet, and follow the maker’s instructions. Never use dog flea preventative on cats, as some of the dog products contain permethrin that can cause death and/or seizures for cats.
What happens when you have a flea infestation on your pet?
Another medical issue involving flea infestation on your pets is flea bite anemia. This is when young or small animals (such as puppies and kittens) have a severe flea infestation and the fleas feed so much on these animals that their red blood cell count decreases. Thus, they become anemic.
What kind of infections can you get from fleas?
Internal Infections from Fleas. “A second problem caused by fleas is tapeworms. These are parasites that are passed to your pet when they actually ingest the flea,” says Dr. Denish. “The tapeworm is initially inside the flea, and then grows inside your pet.
Can a flea infestation on a puppy cause anemia?
But they are easily treated by your veterinarian.” Another medical issue involving flea infestation on your pets is flea bite anemia. This is when young or small animals (such as puppies and kittens) have a severe flea infestation and the fleas feed so much on these animals that their red blood cell count decreases. Thus, they become anemic.
When do you stop flea treatment on your pet?
“In our practices, we tend to see more fleas from September to October as the cool weather leads the fleas indoors to your warm pets and houses. Fleas will die outside in the cold, but once inside, they can spend the winter. Also, most owners tend to stop flea treatment too early.