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What do I do if my pet has fleas?

September 13, 2023

Fleas are one of the most frustrating things to deal with for pet owners! They're more than just a nuisance, though. They can be extremely difficult to get rid of, and can lead to health problems for you and your furry companions! Q&A with Dr. Q. aims to help you through the process.

First and foremost, we recommend you keep a flea comb among your household pet supplies. If your pet appears to be scratching excessively, search through their fur with the comb, looking for fleas or "flea dirt" (the feces of adult fleas). If you spot these, it's time to take action!

You'll need to treat both your pet and your environment. You can get a topical treatment for the pet that will absorb into their skin and eventually kill any flea infestation on their bodies. Then you need to clean your home from top to bottom: vacuuming, laundry, and spraying household surfaces with a (safe) home flea spray. Much like bedbugs, a flea infestation is very difficult to get under control. You may end up needing to get rid of some items like bedding and clothing that the fleas have gotten into.

Fortunately, flea infestations are far less common than they used to be. Your vet will almost definitely recommend a regular flea and tick treatment, which can be the topical mentioned above, or in a chewable pill form. There is also a combination treatment on the market that rolls flea, tick, and heartworm medications into a single monthly dose. If you haven't already, I strongly recommend you get your furry loved ones on a regular flea treatment medication. The best way to deal with a flea infestation on your pets is to never risk getting one in the first place!

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