Are Fleas a Pest Problem for Humans & Pets Like Cats & Dogs During Cold Winter Weather Months in Ocala, FL?

In most areas, you don’t have to worry about fleas as much during the coldest months of the year. In Florida, flea season lasts all year long. You have to be vigilant in keeping this pest away from your pets and your home. Pest 911 is here to help you avoid having a full-on flea infestation this winter.

Fleas Make Dogs & Cats Sick & Can Even Cause Anemia, Tapeworms & Death

When fleas infest your pet, it is more than just a bite for some pets. Many pets are allergic to flea bites, and this can cause some major skin irritation, even more than normal. When your pet is experiencing the discomfort of flea bites, you might see them scratching and itching more than normal. When this happens, it can create hot spots, which are red, irritated spots on their skin that can be painful for the animal. A more serious issue caused by flea infestations in small breeds can be anemia. When you pet ingests fleas while itching, they can also end up getting tapeworms since fleas can carry tapeworm eggs inside their bodies.

Best Ways to Keep Fleas Out of House & Off Your Dog or Cat

If you have a furry pet like a cat or dog, you need to take the necessary steps to keep flea infestations from happening. Before choosing a treatment option for your pet, you should always talk to your local veterinarian. Here are some ways to protect your pet:

Flea Shampoo

If your pet has fleas, flea shampoo can be used to get rid of them in that moment. This will not safeguard them from future flea issues though. If you are looking for a treatment that will keep your pet protected, this isn’t the best one out there.

Oral Flea Pills & Medications

You can have oral medications prescribed by your veterinarian to keep your pet safe from flea infestations. They can protect your pet from ticks, heartworms and some internal parasites as well. Sometimes, oral medications can have some side effects such as vomiting and diarrhea along with allergic reactions such as skin rashes, hives and itching. In some cases, you might notice a mood change in your pet and loss of appetite.

Flea Collars

Flea collars release chemicals that keep fleas away and safeguard your pets from flea infestations. You need to be careful when using flea collars. If you use them too long, you can end up damaging your pet’s nervous system. This treatment plan should only be used short term.

Topical Flea Medications

When using topical medications to keep fleas off your pets, it is generally applied to your pet’s coat between the shoulder blades or at the base of the neck. The medication works by entering the sweat glands and spreading over your pet’s body. This treatment will last for quite a few weeks and it isn’t affected by bathing or allowing your pet to go swimming.

How to Treat Fleas in the Home

If you have a flea infestation in your home, the first thing you want to grab is your vacuum. You should vacuum all the surfaces you can to get rid of this pest. The only way to truly get rid of them is with the help of a professional. Pest 911 has the training and equipment needed to completely get rid of your flea problem. Don’t try to take care of it on your own. Call us today!