Your Pet & Fleas: Myths & Facts

by Expert Contributor Donna Dybus, Director of The Spayed Club Veterinary Clinic

Pet owners everywhere dread fleas, the pesky little critters that make life unbearable for their pet. A severe infestation can make their owners’ lives unbearable as fleas are not fussy as to whom they bite!

There’s a lot of misinformation, misunderstandings and myths about fleas. Here’s a short guide to understanding flea control.

MYTH: Fleas are only a problem during the warm months of spring and summer.

FACT: Fleas are most active in the warm weather but can live year-round indoors. Warm, stable indoor temperatures make continual breeding possible.

MYTH: A flea or two is not a problem.

FACT: Adult fleas you see account for just a small percentage of the potential population in your home. More than 90% are still in the immature stages (eggs, larvae, and pupae) and pose a growing threat. A single pair of fleas can produce up to 500 offspring.

MYTH: My pet does not go outside so it can’t get fleas.

FACT: Indoor pets get fleas, too. They can enter through doors, windows, and screens, or hitch a ride on your shoes.

MYTH: I applied flea treatment to my pet so all fleas will be killed.

FACT: If your pet already has fleas, applying flea medication to your pet is Step 1 as it will kill only the adult fleas living on your pet. Step 2 is to treat your house as well as your pet: Kill the flea eggs and larvae on your floors, linens and furniture. Vacuum or wash all surfaces where your pet lays. Step 3 is continue to vacuum and wash surfaces weekly and treat your pet for at least three months to break the long lifecycle of fleas that can lie dormant in carpets or fabric.

MYTH: Only one pet is itchy so I only need to treat the itchy one.

FACT: All pets in the house need to be treated, even those that don’t seem itchy because eggs and larvae may be present. Check for “flea dirt” (round, black flecks that are actually flea feces).

MYTH: All flea treatments are the same.

FACT: Unfortunately, there are many over-the-counter flea products and collars that don’t work or are harmful to your pet. Buy from your vet’s office to get the best product. It may cost more but your pet and house will be safe from fleas.

MYTH: Fleas are a nuisance but not dangerous.

FACT: Left untreated, fleas could lead to a range of potentially serious health risks for your pet, including tapeworm, anemia, allergies, and various infections.

Expert Contributor Donna Dybus, Director of The Spayed Club Veterinary Clinic

The Mission of The Spayed Club Clinic Eliminate unnecessary dog & cat euthanasia through affordable veterinary care and spay/neuter surgeries. The Spayed Club is a 501(c)3 nonprofit charity organization.

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