External parasites are common problems faced by dogs and cats. Fleas, for example, are small insects that live on the animal’s bodies and suck blood directly from their small blood vessels. While sucking, they release saliva that causes irritation or itching, so you will see your dog or cat scratching different parts of the body. This prevails in summer because the moist and warm environment is ideal for their breeding and multiplication.
Causes:
The infestation of fleas is widespread among dogs and cats. There are many ways through which your pet could catch fleas, including the below:
1. When you take your pet out, there are high chances of catching fleas from interactions with infected animals. Fleas are fertile reproducers which multiply very quickly.
2. Your pet may acquire fleas from dirt or grass. The fleas will enter your home by means of your pet and spread everywhere, mostly in your furniture, floor cracks and bedding.
3. Adult fleas are about 0.1-0.3 cm long. With the right environment, fully formed fleas can potentially survive in your house for up to 12 months.
Signs:
Flea infestation is not life-threatening but it can quickly become a very irritating problem and can initiate serious skin reactions. Taking control early is the key to eradicate a flea infestation. The basic signs of a flea infestation are listed below:
1. You might observe fleas on the body of your pet or in your house.
2. There will be excessive scratching due to the irritation caused by flea bites. Sometimes hair loss is seen. Flea bites also release histamine which could lead to allergic reactions and cause itchy red spots on the skin.
3. Fleas suck blood, so your pet may become anemic. You will see pale gum which indicates a lack of blood in the body.
4. Fleas are carriers of tapeworms which can be found in the faeces of your pet.
Appointment/Enquiry: 3650 3000 (Mon-Sun: 9:00am – 7:00pm)
Address: G-2/F, Trinity Towers, 339 Lai Chi Kok Road, Sham Shui Po
Online booking for revisit with primary care veterinarians or vaccination:
https://www.cityuvmc.com.hk/en/online-booking