Table of Contents
Flea treatment for your pet
When should you apply flea treatment to your pet?
How to apply flea treatment to your pet
Why it is important to use flea treatment
How to prevent fleas?
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How often should you apply flea treatment to your pet?
- By Ellie
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- November 25, 2024
- 4 MIN READ
Most people know that it’s important to treat your pet for fleas, but how often should their flea treatment be applied and why is this crucial to preventing infestation? Keep reading for top tips from Head Vet at Itch, Dr Costigan on flea treating your cat or dog.
Flea treatment for your pet
Fleas are an uninvited guest that nobody wants. They are tiny tormentors that wreak havoc in your home and for your pet’s health if left unchecked.
Treating your pet for fleas isn’t just a box-ticking exercise; it’s part and parcel of being a responsible pet owner. But how often should you be doing it? Weekly? Monthly? Only when you see them hopping about? Let’s dive into it…
When should you apply flea treatment to your pet?
The golden rule to treating fleas is prevention, not reaction. It’s all well and good to treat your pet after spotting a flea, but by then, they’ve likely had a chance to lay their eggs— A single flea can lay up to 50 eggs a day. That’s not the kind of multiplication we want to deal with.
For most pets, you’ll need to apply flea treatment once a month. This ensures continuous protection, as the life cycle of a flea can be as short as 12 days. Missing a dose can leave a window of opportunity for fleas to settle in.
Some scenarios might call for extra vigilance. If your cat or dog is a regular outdoor explorer, waltzing through parks, hedgerows, or even your neighbour’s unkempt garden, you might need to be more diligent. Similarly, warmer months—or an unusually warm British winter (cheers, climate change)—can bring a spike in flea activity. It’s good to be knowledgeable about peak flea season, when fleas are more likely to infest your pet and home.
How to apply flea treatment to your pet
Applying flea treatment is straightforward, but let’s not sugarcoat it, your pet never looks forward to it. Here's a step-by-step guide to keep things as smooth as possible:
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Choose the right treatment - Spot-on treatments are the most common, but oral medications, collars, and sprays are also available. Always use a product designed specifically for your pet’s species, age, and weight, like Itch Flea Treatment for cats and dogs which is tailored and personalised to your pet.
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Calm your pet - Whether it’s bribery with treats or a soothing cuddle session, a calm pet is easier to work with. Make it a positive experience to reduce resistance next time.
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Locate the sweet spot - For spot-on treatments, part the fur at the base of your pet’s neck, just between the shoulder blades. This location ensures they can’t lick the treatment off.
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Apply as directed - Use the entire dose provided in the applicator. Squeeze it onto the skin rather than the fur for maximum effectiveness.
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Wash your hands - No one wants flea treatment residue on their sandwich.
And voilà, your pet is protected! To make sure the flea treatment is super-duper 100% effective, our Itch Head Vet, Dr Zoe Cositgan recommends following these house rules to provide the best aftercare when de-fleaing your pet.
Why it is important to use flea treatment
Fleas are not just a minor inconvenience; they’re a health risk to your pet and potentially to you as well. Here’s why flea treatment isn’t something to skip:
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Protect your pet
Flea bites are itchy and uncomfortable. Left untreated, they can cause severe irritation, allergic reactions, or even anaemia in extreme cases. Fleas can also carry tapeworms, which your pet might ingest while grooming.
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Protect your home
Fleas won't just live on your pet; they’ll happily spread to your carpets, upholstery, and even your bed. A flea infestation is notoriously difficult to eradicate and usually requires treatment of your entire home. Flea spray made specifically for homes, like the Itch Flea House Spray will remove fleas in just one blast and halt flea life stages for up to 12 months.
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Prevent disease transmission
Fleas are vectors for several diseases, including Bartonella (cat scratch fever). If you suspect your pet has a serious infection or disease, chat to your vet immediately.
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Seasonal and situational risks
As mentioned earlier, certain times of the year (hello, spring and summer) or certain lifestyles (outdoor adventures galore) mean your pet is more exposed. Regular flea treatment acts as a protective barrier.
Get rid of fleas, ticks AND lice... and stop them coming back!
Fleas, ticks and lice can be a nightmare, but with the right approach, you can take control and rid your pets and home of these bothersome pests. Remember that parasites can be persistent, so patience and regular treatment will be your best friends! By addressing both your pet and their environment, you can ensure a flea-free and comfortable living space for both your furry companion and your family.
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How to prevent fleas?
Whilst treating fleas as soon as you find them on your pet is top priority, preventing fleas from biting your pet is a way better way to avoid these tiny blighters all together.
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Keep your home clean - Vacuum regularly, focusing on carpets, rugs, and pet bedding. Washing pet bedding at a high temperature (60 degrees or more folks!) can kill any fleas or eggs lurking there.
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Use flea preventatives year-round - Even in winter, central heating can create a cosy environment for fleas. Don’t let your guard down just because it’s chilly outside.
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Treat all pets in the household - Fleas are social creatures (unfortunately), and if one pet has them, chances are they all do. Treating every pet ensures you’re not leaving gaps in your defences.
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Regular grooming and checks - A good brushing session is not only bonding time but also an opportunity to check for fleas or their droppings (little black specks, if you’re wondering). A flea comb is a brilliant investment.
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Maintain your garden - Fleas thrive in shady, humid spots. Keeping your garden tidy and free from overgrown plants can reduce the risk of fleas hitching a ride indoors.
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Speak to your vet - If your pet is flea allergic or you are struggling to eradicate a flea infestation, chat to your vet. They can prescribe treatment to fight fleas that are reluctant to leave your pet and home!
Fleas are an inevitable part of being a pet parent unfortunately, but you can be one hop ahead of any flea, by sticking to a regular treatment schedule and staying vigilant - keeping your home and pet flea free!
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