Top Five Tips against Fleas

It’s that time of year again when we switch on the heating and I get the most amount of enquiries about… fleas! How do you stop the cycle? How can you get rid of them? How can you stop your pet from itching? I’ve written a few blogs on my website (Don’t get the itch this Winter and Oh no not fleas again) and in local publications, so here are my top five tips, to sum up, and help you out!

1. Find an effective flea treatment

You can purchase a flea product from your vet. It can take up to six weeks for it to take effect, so it must be an on-going treatment. Most treatments are monthly and are available for cats and dogs.

2. Vacuum your pet’s environment

Vacuum your pet’s living area. Also floors, furniture and skirting boards. Ensure you dispose of the vacuum bag or contents each time to help destroy the fleas developing further.

3. Wash bedding

Ideally, wash your pet’s bedding at 60 degrees. This helps remove fleas, also eggs and larvae. You can also purchase a household spray for carpets and skirting boards.

4. Monthly flea treatment

Fleas can survive some months without a host, so cleaning and flea treatment need to be ongoing, especially if your home is central-heated. If you spot fleas treat quickly as they can give your cat or dog other diseases.

5. Groom your pet

Brushing your cat or dog regularly helps to find fleas or ticks. It also helps you to bond and aids against matting. Use a fine-tooth comb over a white sheet of paper, if you spot droppings it is very likely your pet has fleas.

Need assistance?

You can find out more about a flea’s lifecycle on my blog on Vantage magazine site or view this helpful infographic from the RSPCA. If you need help applying treatment at your home, contact me and I may be able to help.