Five Ways to Lessen the Chance Your Pet Will Get Fleas

The weather is warming up. The sun is peeking out or shining bright, birds are chirping and, unfortunately, fleas are biting. However, fleas are not the only summer pests that haunt your beloved pets. Ticks and mosquitoes are also out in force during this time of year, making now the time to not only treat pets for fleas, but to protect them against heartworm, too.

When it comes to fleas, you should do everything in your power to keep them off your dog or cat. Being bitten by fleas is a downright miserable experience. Flea bites make pets’ skin itchy, red and irritated. They can also trigger allergic reactions, and even open pets up to various types of diseases. The good news is that there are ways to reduce the chances that your pet will get fleas. Read on for five flea prevention tips from top veterinarians in Saint Francisville, LA:

• Try known preventative treatments: The best thing you can do for your pet is to get them adequately protected against fleas. If fleas infect your pet, chances are these bugs will also invade your home. All the more reason to try preventative treatments available for purchase, like flea shampoos, collars, topical ointments, oral medications and flea drops. The key is to pick a treatment method based on the size and species of your pet. Additionally, get a flea repellent product that you can use on your home.
• Use apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular natural flea deterrent that’s safe to use on pets. Mix 8 oz ACV, 4 oz warm water, 1/2 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp baking soda in a spray bottle. Spray on your pet’s coat (avoiding their eyes) and comb through. Or, rinse your dog or cat with ACV after a shampoo and thorough rinse. ACV does not pose health risks to pets or people because it does not contain dangerous chemicals.
• Check your pet: Fleas can be hard to spot on pet fur and skin, but you should be checking your pets regularly for these pests. Look for black or brown specks in the fur—this is actually flea feces—and use a flea comb or regular brush often. Checking your pet daily during the summer after outdoor play and early detection are key to avoiding full-blown infestations.
• Vacuum: If you have a cat or dog, you should be vacuuming your house at least twice a week, and more often during shedding season and after outdoor play sessions to reduce the number of fleas, flea eggs and larvae on surfaces.
• Wash pet bedding: Wash all pet bedding, blankets, collars and toys on a regular basis to flush away fleas and flea eggs.

Whether your pet needs their annual checkup, vaccination updates or isn’t feeling well, you can count on the team at your local veterinary clinic for assistance. Contact the team at St. Francisville Animal Hospital today for more information about proven methods of dog and cat flea prevention in Saint Francisville, LA!

Categorised in: Dog Health