Fleas

Because of the unfortunately large population of stray and feral cats in Philadelphia, fleas can thrive all year round. For that reason it is important that you are consistent with your flea control program. Even animals that are strictly indoor pets can acquire fleas. You may not see fleas on your animal, but if your pet is scratching, has scabs or if you see small black specs (flea dirt/feces), those are indications of fleas. It is also important to know which products are labeled for your pet; some products are extremely toxic to cats.

Several diseases are related to fleas. Fleas can transmit tapeworms – small rice like worms found in stool or around the anus. Flea bites may result in an allergic response in some animals (Flea Allergy Dermatitis – FAD), and in extreme cases, fleas can cause anemia, usually in young or weak animals. Tapeworms are acquired by the animal ingesting the infected flea. Usually Tapeworms are seen only in dogs and cats but small children can get Tapeworms too by accidentally ingesting a flea or flea parts. Up to 40% of the canine population is sensitive to flea bites. FAD should be considered a progressive disease, with each episode resulting in an increasingly severe reaction in the allergic pet. A well-planned flea control strategy is essential to maintaining the health and comfort of both the pet and the family.

Fleas are hardy insects which can live from six months to one year. Most of their adult life is spent on their host animal. Fleas go through a complete life cycle which consists of four stages: eggs, larvae, pupae and adults. When an adult flea emerges from their cocoon they must feed on a blood meal within one week to survive. However, a completely developed adult may live for several months to one year without feeding. Because of their thick hair coat, warm body temperature and less frequent bathing, small mammals make an ideal host for adult fleas. The female flea must have a blood meal before laying eggs and she will lay her eggs on the pet. Usually the eggs fall off the pet onto the carpet, bedding or wherever the pet lies down. The flea eggs hatch into larvae which are very sensitive to light and heat and consequently seek out hiding places, such as cracks in the floor, between carpet fibers, under furniture and under organic material in the kennel. Larvae eat adult flea feces and other organic material. Larvae evolve into pupae and can remain in that state for up to one year until they hatch into adult fleas.

Fleas tend to seek dark, cool places that are protected from rain. Moderate temperature with a relative high humidity (70%) make fleas mature faster, while less ideal conditions tend to slow the growth process.

Because adult fleas are not discriminating about their hosts, all of the pets and humans in an infested home are vulnerable. If it is to be successful, a flea control program must involve the entire household at the same time, and all the animals in contact with the affected pet should also be treated. If you have a severe flea infestation you may want to consider a pest control company.

There are many alternatives in flea control. Insecticides are the most common form of treatment for adult flea infestations and are necessary to eradicate fleas from the animal. Other methods such as insect growth regulators work to eliminate fleas in the egg and larval stages and may be useful as an environmental treatment (Nylor™, Archer™). Nematodes (microscopic worms) are a natural enemy of fleas that kill them in the larva and pupa states (Biosafe™, Exhibit™, Vector TL™). Boric acid is a safe non-toxic method of destroying fleas in the larva state (Fleabusters™). Flea combs can be purchased at your local pet store and mechanical control of fleas may work well for you.

Feeding pet’s garlic, brewer’s yeast or B vitamins has not been shown to be effective against fleas. Also, pennyroyal, eucalyptus, rosemary, tea leaves and citronella have not been shown to provide effective control. In fact, overdosing of garlic or onion can be irritating or toxic to pets.

When treating your home and garden for flea infestation, remember to follow these tips:

• Vacuum the carpets thoroughly every other day to remove as many of the immature fleas as possible. A vacuum with a mechanical carpet brush is the best as it can open up the carpet fiber to get to the larvae. Don’t forget about under the furniture and all the places that your pet rests. Dispose of the vacuum bag after cleaning is complete. • Wash bedding and (if possible) the areas where your pet lies weekly in HOT (130ºF) water and detergent.
• Keep grass short and remove any organic debris from the yard and kennel area. Don’t store sand or gravel in your yard.
• Block off access to crawl spaces under the house or porch and treat these areas with insecticides. Also remember to treat any cool areas in which your pet may lie. • Remember that insecticides do not penetrate carpet fibers effectively so pay special attention to this area.
• Use yard and kennel sprays around the house. Be aware of product label and use accordingly especially if you have small children, birds or other small animals.

Be persistent. If you feel a product is not working, stop to analyze where and how you are applying it before switching to another brand. Consult with your veterinarian or pest control agent to verify you are utilizing the product properly.

Some of our veterinary recommended products for you:

Vectra 3D: Vectra 3D is an insecticide which kills adult fleas on contact - they do not need to bite to die. You may see actual fleas more frequently when Vectra 3D is used, as the fleas are trying to escape.  A happy flea is a hidden flea - when you see them jumping they are on their way out.  Apply every month on dogs along entire spine. Don’t bathe your animal for two days prior to or after applying. Vectra 3D is toxic to cats, and should never be applied to a cat.

Revolution: Revolution is an insecticide which kills adult fleas and prevents flea eggs from hatching. Apply every month on cats to the back of the head. Don’t bathe your animal for two days prior to or after applying. Revolution also prevents heartworm disease, roundworm and hookworm infection.

Sentinel: Sentinel prevents successful reproduction of the flea by weakening the egg membrane, resulting in an unviable egg. Sentinel does not kill adult fleas. Give by mouth with food once monthly on the same day every month. Sentinel also prevents heartworm infection, and is made for use in dogs.