Pet owners across the UK are being cautioned to watch for signs of flea infestations, which are more common than believed, especially during this time of year.
Jamie Walker, a vet and technical services manager at Dechra, highlighted that fleas thrive in centrally heated homes, with temperatures around 21°C being ideal for their reproduction. Flea eggs can hitch a ride into homes on pets’ coats, often going unnoticed for some time. Besides causing irritation to pets, fleas can also spread to humans, causing discomfort and itching.
Recognizing signs of a flea infestation is crucial. Pets scratching, biting, or licking excessively are clear indicators. Regularly checking pets’ skin and fur can help spot fleas early.
In the UK, the most common flea species is the cat flea (Ctenocephalides felis), and they complete their life cycle—egg, larva, pupa, and adult—within 3-4 weeks, accelerated in optimal temperatures.
To combat fleas effectively, vets recommend year-round treatment with approved products. Treating both pets and their environment is essential, as 95% of a flea infestation typically resides in the home as eggs, larvae, and pupae.
Flea bites inject saliva into the bloodstream, causing itching and potential skin infections in pets. In severe cases, fleas can lead to anemia in young or smaller animals due to blood loss.
Prevention is key: maintaining year-round flea control minimizes health risks for pets and prevents infestations from taking hold in homes.
