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Fleas: Causes and Prevention for Dogs

Fleas and Ticks: Prevention for Dogs and Cats

Fleas and Ticks: Causes and Prevention for Dogs

Fleas and ticks can be an unpleasant and potentially dangerous problem for both pets and their owners. These parasites thrive in various environments and can affect dogs and cats year-round, even with preventative measures in place. A flea infestation can quickly spread throughout your home, while ticks pose a serious risk of transmitting life-threatening diseases such as tick paralysis.

At Kirrawee Veterinary Hospital, we are here to help you identify the signs of fleas and ticks, understand their causes, and implement effective prevention and treatment strategies. Whether you’re dealing with a flea outbreak or concerned about the dangers of tick bites, our experienced team can guide you to the best prevention and treatment options for your pet.

If you need assistance in protecting your furry friend from fleas and ticks, don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re here to help keep your pet safe, comfortable, and parasite-free.

Signs your dog or cat may have fleas

Dog flea symptoms will show up the same way as fleas on cats will:

  • Excessive scratching, biting or licking
  • Loss of hair: Primarily over the lower back, tail and rear leg region
  • Flea bites
  • Scabs
  • Abnormal red patches of skin
  • Small bumps around body or neck area
  • Yeast and bacterial infections
  • Skin Infections
  • Ear infections
  • Flea dirt (flea blood and dropping that appear as small black flakes in the fur)

If your pet is showing any of these symptoms, it means it is time to do a detailed check. Gently turn your dog onto their back to check all the areas that fleas like to hide: their armpits, ears, tail, groin, tummy, back of neck and head. Fleas tend to find the warmest, furriest spots to nest (don’t we all?).

The Cause of Fleas

Dogs often get fleas through contact with other flea-infested pets or just by being in an environment where fleas like to live. Fleas are able to jump from host to host, so if you’re thinking ‘my dog has fleas and sleeps in my bed,’ then it may be time to flea bomb the whole house!

Preventative Measures

Protecting your pet from fleas and ticks is essential for their health and comfort. These parasites can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even transmit serious diseases. To keep your furry friend safe year-round, follow these preventative measures:

 

✅Limit Outdoor Exposure – While pets love to explore, ensure they have a comfortable, warm indoor space and avoid sleeping outside, especially in high-risk areas.

 

✅ Minimize Contact with Wild or Stray Animals – Fleas and ticks can easily spread from possums, rats, and stray animals, so reducing interactions helps lower the risk.

 

✅Maintain a Regular Grooming Routine – Bathing and brushing your pet frequently helps detect fleas and ticks early and keeps their coat healthy.

 

✅Perform Routine Flea & Tick Checks – Regularly inspect your pet’s fur, ears, and paws, especially after walks or outdoor play.

 

✅Stay Up to Date with Preventative Treatments – The best way to protect your pet is by using vet-approved flea and tick preventatives consistently. Keep a supply on hand and ensure treatments are up to date to prevent infestations before they start.

 

If you’re unsure about the best flea and tick prevention for your dog or cat, speak to our team at Kirrawee Veterinary Hospital—we’re here to help!

It is very important to perform due diligence when it comes to fleas, as once they enter your home, they can spread easily and can quickly become a problem for the whole household.

Immediate Action for Fleas & Ticks on Dogs and Cats

If you notice fleas or ticks on your pet, it’s important to act quickly. These parasites can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and even transmit serious diseases. The best way to eliminate fleas and ticks effectively is to consult your local vet clinic for a proven flea and tick treatment tailored to your dog or cat.

In addition to treating your pet, it’s crucial to address the environment:


✅ Thoroughly vacuum your home, including carpets, floors, and upholstery, to remove flea eggs and larvae.


✅ Wash all bedding—yours, your pet’s, and any other soft furnishings they frequently use.

 

✅ Consider flea and tick control measures for your home, such as safe treatments or professional pest control if needed.

 

Preventing re-infestation is just as important as eliminating the current problem. Speak to your vet about ongoing flea and tick prevention to keep your pet and home pest-free year-round.

Contact Your Local Vet Clinic

If your dog keeps getting fleas even after treatment, speak to Kirrawee Vet Hospital for the best flea treatment for dogs.

 

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