If your dog or cat suddenly starts scratching more and behaves restlessly, it's worth taking a closer look - fleas may have chosen the animal's fur as a free hotel.
How do you recognize flea infestation in your animal?
The tricky thing here is that flea bites are often only visible when they have become infected, for example due to excessive scratching. With light-coloured fur, it is much easier to see the fleas, or rather the flea droppings, than small black dots visible to the naked eye. If you crush the dark spots on a cloth after brushing your dog or cat, the droppings will turn reddish – a guaranteed Signs of flea infestation .
💡 Our tip: If your four-legged friend has dark fur, you can simply place him on a white surface and brush him thoroughly. Special flea combs make this job easier.
Everything at a glance: Symptoms of flea infestation
Possible symptoms include:
- restlessness and nervousness
- Increased scratching
- skin redness
- loss of fur
- small wounds/crusts
- reddened hives
My pet has fleas – what now?
Don't worry: As unpleasant as the symptoms are for your dog or cat, you can do something about fleas. In addition to treating your animal, it is also important to keep the environment clean:
- Vacuum several times a day (empty the vacuum afterwards!)
- Wipe regularly around your pet's sleeping area
- Wash textiles and cuddly toys at at least 60 degrees
- Brush your dog or cat frequently and thoroughly
- Treat your animal after consulting your veterinarian, e.g. with spot-ons, tablets, collars or sprays against fleas
Against fleas: Successfully prevent flea infestation
Better safe than sorry: Flea infestations can be a nuisance for you and your dog, but with the right prevention, you can help your four-legged friend stay flea-free. Here are some tried and tested methods for flea prevention:
Regular flea prophylaxis: Use high-quality flea preparations that are specifically designed for dogs. These preparations can be available in the form of spot-ons, tablets or collars. Be sure to choose the right product for your dog's weight and size and use it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Control of the environment: Flea eggs and larvae can develop in carpets, upholstered furniture and other areas of the home. Vacuuming and regularly washing your dog's bedding and blankets can help keep the flea population under control. Also use appropriate environmental flea sprays or powders if necessary.
Hygiene and care: Regularly brushing and combing your dog's coat can help remove adult fleas and detect infestations early. Keep your dog's coat clean and healthy, as healthy skin and a strong immune system can help him fight off flea infestations.
Avoiding flea sources: Make sure your dog does not come into contact with other animals that may be infected with fleas. Avoid areas with known flea infestations and keep your dog away from stray animals.
Regular veterinary examinations: Have your dog examined and vaccinated regularly by a veterinarian. The veterinarian can give you further recommendations for flea prevention and check your dog for possible flea infestation or other parasites.
Last but not least: flea infestation is never a pleasant experience, that's true. However, fleas have nothing to do with inadequate hygiene - and with our tips you can get rid of these unwelcome visitors in no time. So: there's no need to worry!
We at alphazoo support you in the natural control of fleas, for example through our special Bye Bye Vloh Spray . Declare war on fleas immediately!
