Table of Contents
How animals pass ticks to pets
Animals to watch out for
Animals that don't transmit fleas and ticks
How to protect your pet from fleas and ticks
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Animals that pass ticks and fleas to your pet
- By Hannah
-
- March 5, 2025
- 2 MIN READ
Our pets can just one day have ticks or fleas, but they don't just magically appear. Wildlife and animals can pass ticks and fleas to our four-legged best friends. Keep reading to find out which animals to look out for and how to prevent these pests from latching onto your pet.
How animals pass ticks to pets
Ticks are notorious hitchhikers, and they can easily find their way onto your pets through encounters with other animals. When an animal carrying ticks comes into close contact with your pet, whether during a romp in the park or a backyard escapade, the ticks seize the opportunity to hop aboard. Fleas, on the other hand, are agile jumpers, capable of leaping onto passing hosts, making their transmission methods a bit different from ticks.
Animals to watch out for
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Deer
Deer are notorious carriers of ticks, including the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis), which is a known vector for Lyme disease which can have serious consequences for both pets and humans. When your pet roams in areas frequented by deer, they may pick up ticks that have hitched a ride on these large mammals.
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Feral cats
Feral cats can harbour fleas and ticks, especially if they spend time outdoors. When your pet comes into contact with a feral cat, whether through territorial disputes or casual interactions, the transfer of these parasites becomes a real possibility.
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Woodland animals
Like badgers and foxes, ticks really like to feed on woodland animals so any areas where they hang out is a hot spot for ticks!
Animals that don't transmit fleas and ticks
While many animals can contribute to flea and tick transmission, some are less likely to be the culprits. Let's debunk the myth that all animals pose a risk and explore those that are less likely to pass on these pesky parasites:
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Squirrels - Squirrels, although active outdoor creatures, are generally not carriers of fleas and ticks that pose a significant threat to pets.
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Rats - Rats, despite their association with urban environments, are not primary vectors for fleas and ticks that affect domestic pets.
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Mice - Similarly, mice are not significant carriers of fleas and ticks that pose a risk to your pets.
How to protect your pet from fleas and ticks
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Use preventatives: Administer flea and tick preventatives regularly, spot-on treatments like Itch Flea Treatment for dogs and Itch Flea Treatment for cats (kills ticks and lice too!!) are the best way to keep your pets parasite free!
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Regular grooming: Get a regular grooming routine in place for your pets. Frequent brushing not only keeps their coat healthy but also allows you to detect and remove fleas and ticks promptly.
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Tick checks: Perform thorough tick checks on your pet after outdoor adventures. Run your hands over their entire body, paying close attention to areas where ticks are commonly found.
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Avoid areas with animals: Be mindful of areas where potential carriers, such as deer, feral cats, badgers are frequently seen. Avoid letting your pet roam in these areas.
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Clean: Regularly clean and hoover your home, especially areas where your pet spends the most time. Wash bedding, blankets, and any fabric items your pet uses in hot water (60°C or more) to eliminate flea eggs and larvae.
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Preventatives for the garden: Consider using preventatives in your garden, especially if your pet spends time outdoors. Various products, such as home sprays and treatments, can help reduce the pest population in your immediate environment.
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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