TAMPA, Fla. — Florida is a hotbed for fleas and parasites. And, in the summertime, veterinary dermatologists see an increase in patients with flea allergies. Now, more than ever, fleas are becoming a problem. According to Heather Willis-Goulet, a board certified veterinary dermatologist at Florida Veterinary Specialists, “I’m seeing more patients with fleas on them, as opposed to a year or two ago. And, it’s definitely worse in the spring or summertime.”
In fact, according to a Kansas State University study, flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) is the most common dermatologic disease of domestic dogs. That’s because when fleas feed, they inject saliva that contains a variety of histamine like compounds, enzymes and amino acids that induce hypersensitivity. So, what do pet parents need to know to protect their pets?
Here are six common misconceptions about fleas:
1. If you don’t see fleas on your pet, there’s no need to worry about a flea allergy.FALSE!
Willis-Goulet says, “Even if you don’t see fleas, your pet can have a flea allergy. One flea bite from a flea can cause an allergic reaction. That one bite can make the pet scratch and/or bite the affected area for 7 days!”
2. When it comes to a flea, you only need to worry about a flea bite. FALSE!
If a cat or dog eats a flea, they can get a tapeworm. What the pet owner will see is tiny little white worms or rice-like segments on the pet’s backside or bedding.
3. No need to worry about treating your yard or home for fleas. FALSE!
If the problem is severe, you can treat the yard and the house. With regard to the yard, it’s best to apply products in the evening, because the UV light from the sun will degrade it. Fleas like to be in moist, dark areas. So, be sure to clean up any rubbish or thatch in your yard. Fleas also like to live under raised mobile homes. Be aware of those shady areas of your yard. With regard to the house, flea foggers aren’t always effective because the insecticide settles on top of furniture. Fleas will simply go under your couch and into the dark areas. No matter what treatment you use for the house or yard, be sure they are safe for pets.
4. Most pet owners are using their flea products correctly. FALSE!
Some people do not put the entire dose on their pet, according to Willis-Goulet. Or, they’ll split the dose between two pets. The products, used as intended, are very safe. Pet owners should be using them every month. Every three months is not adequate. Also, frequent bathing or swimming can reduce the insecticide levels. Be sure to bathe and dry your dog BEFORE applying the flea product. “We see failures in products during a great flea season because people are not using it as frequently as they should,” adds Willis-Goulet.
5. All flea products are created equal. FALSE!
Some flea products only kill the adult flea. Those products do not take care of the eggs that are released onto the pet. The best products kill the adults AND control the eggs.
6. Cats and dogs can share the same products. FALSE!
“You cannot put dog flea control products on a cat. Many will kill a cat,” according to Willis-Goulet. “Some of them are just downright toxic to cats.” Read the labels very carefully and be sure it’s formulated for cats.
About Florida Veterinary Specialists & Cancer Treatment Center:
Opened in 1996, Florida Veterinary Specialists & Cancer Treatment Center was founded with the concept of providing a superior level of patient and client care through close cooperation with the family practitioner. In addition to referral appointments, the hospital is open 24 hours a day for case transfers by the family practitioner and after-hours emergencies. Florida Veterinary Specialists serves as an extension of the general practice. Their specialized services include Acupuncture, Avian & Exotic, Behavioral Medicine, Cardiology, Critical Care, Dermatology, Emergency Medicine, Internal medicine, Neurology, Oncology/Radiation, Ophthalmology, Radiology, Rehabilitation, and Surgery. Florida Veterinary Specialists is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and is located at 3000 Busch Lake Blvd. in Tampa. For further information, please visit www.fvs.com.
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