Pet Health

Flea Basics

The flea is a hardy insect with a lifespan of 6 to 12 months. Because the life cycle of a flea is three to four weeks, it will take at least that long to completely rid your pet and its environment of the enemy. Different flea control products work in different ways, have varying levels of effectiveness and kill different flea stages (eggs, larvae and/or adults). You'll need to use a combination of products at the same time to be effective. Instead of the usual route of using collars, dips or shampoos, Dr. Mike advises using veterinary recommended spot-on or ingestible products for your pet. Our clinic also carries flea bombs for your house and yard spray for your yard/kennel area.

Whether or not you actually see fleas on your pet, they may be there. Scratching, scabs and dark specs, or "flea dirt" found on the skin can all be signs that your pet has become the unwitting host for a family of fleas. Fleas can cause reactions in your pet varying from a mild skin irritation to a severe allergic reaction. Adult fleas may be lurking in your home or yard, and eggs or larvae may be lying in wait, as well.

You'll need to rid your house of fleas by vacuuming and washing your pet's bedding once a week while also using a disinfectant on washable surfaces and an insecticide or insect growth regulator in cracks and crevices (sometimes foggers are recommended) every two to four weeks. When using chemical products to control fleas, be very careful. You may be providing too much of a potentially toxic chemical if you use, products with the same chemical ingredient.

Always check with your vet before beginning your war on fleas. Even if you purchase an over-the-counter product, it's wise to consult your vet for any safety concerns. To assist with clearing your home of fleas, you may want to consider hiring a professional exterminator (in which case, your veterinarian may be able to recommend one in your area). If yours is an outside pet, you'll need to tackle the yard, too. Sunlight kills fleas, so concentrate on the shady areas of your yard especially.

You can spray your yard yourself or have it professionally sprayed with insecticide. Be very careful to use the products as directed; some may be effective for dogs, but toxic to cats. Consult with Dr. Mike or his staff before implementing any flea control program. Dr. Mike carries the AKC Companion Animal Recovery ID System for the safety of your pet.