Fleas and ticks are a serious problem for dogs and outdoor cats. Keep reading to learn some signs and symptoms and how you can best protect your furry friend from these pests!
Does my pet have fleas or ticks?
Fleas and ticks are an annoying problem, but they can also be hazardous to your pet’s health. Fleas feed on blood and can suck as much as 15 times their weight in blood. Smaller animals — such as puppies and kittens — are more at risk as they may already have fewer counts of red blood cells.
Symptoms of Fleas
The easiest way to check for fleas is to run a fine-tooth comb through your pet’s fur. If you see small, quick brown shapes, you’ve got fleas. Persistent scratching, chewing, and licking are common indicators of fleas. If your pet develops tapeworms or shows pale gums and lips, contact your veterinarian.
Signs of Ticks
Ticks are most active in late spring through summer. They live in tall grasses or brush and prefer to attach close to the feet, ears, neck, and head but can be found elsewhere. Always check your pets for bumps and visible ticks when they come in from outside, especially if you’ve taken them on a hike or outside their normal roaming area.
Unlike fleas, ticks don’t usually cause obvious signs of discomfort, but they can carry diseases and cause serious health complications, including:
- Lyme disease
- Cytauxzoonosis
- Anemia
- Tick paralysis
- Infection
Removing ticks can be difficult and should be done carefully to prevent infection.
3 Ways to Prevent Fleas and Ticks
Speak to your vet to determine the best flea and tick medication for your pets. Follow these tips to prevent fleas and ticks around your home:
- Weed and mow your lawn regularly. This reduces the area ticks can hide on your property.
- Clear grass clippings and leaves. Fleas like to hide in dark, shady, moist areas — clearing organic debris keeps fleas from living near your home.
- Keep garbage covered. Making garbage inaccessible will reduce the chances of rodents, which commonly carry ticks and fleas.
Looking for flea and tick prevention services in Houston? Contact Preventive Pest Control! Our pros help you be proactive and protect your family and pets from fleas and ticks. Contact our team online or by phone at (713) 955-7405 today!