Flea infestations are one of the most common health problems occurring in cats, dogs and rabbits. Peak season for flea activity is during the six hottest months of the year namely April to November. With many pets being kept indoors, fleas have become an all year round problem with central heating allowing them to breed throughout the year in your home.

In pets and humans the main problem is the fleabite which leads to irritation, skin allergies and other problems including the transmission of tapeworms in pets. These allergies are a source of great annoyance to your pet causing them to scratch inflicting self-trauma and making the situation worse.

As fleas that effect dogs can also affect cats and vice versa, it is important to treat all your pets at the same time to prevent further spread to you or your children.

Fleas are prolific breeders and can start laying eggs within a few days of being hatched themselves. While the mature flea lives on you or your pet the immature fleas live in your pet’s environment (kennels, bedding, carpets, furniture etc.). For this reason it is important to vacuum, thoroughly clean and/or treat your pets living quarters and destroy anything that can’t be cleaned at the same time as treating your pet.

As fleas are so small, they are often hard to detect. The best way to check for fleas is to check for flea dirt which are small black specks seen in the coat composed of dried blood excreted by the flea. You can do this by combing your pet’s coat onto a wet piece of paper. If the specks that fall onto the paper dissolve and turn red or brown, your pet has fleas.

There are many products available for the treatment of fleas, some more effective than others. It is important to use the right product at the right time for complete control of this problem. Remember also to treat the bedding area.

Products available include sprays, spot on drops, tablets, bathing ointments and pumps. We do not recommend collars or powders as they are not very effective. Don’t hesitate to ask your Vet for advice on the appropriate treatment for your pet.