Irish Owned
How To Get Rid Of Fleas
How to Get Rid of Fleas from Dogs and Cats
If you think that your cat or dog has fleas, then you should book an appointment with a trustworthy vet such as McLaughlins straight away. Ask your vet for advice on the most suitable treatment for your pet. Keep in mind that a one-size-fits-all approach won’t work. For example, some flea treatments for dogs contain permethrin, an insecticide that is safe for dogs but highly toxic to cats.
- Give Your Pet A Flea Bath
Bathing your pet is one of the most effective ways to eradicate fleas. Your vet will prescribe a flea shampoo and advise you on proper dosage and additional precautions. Lather up your pet before putting them in the tub to prevent fleas from migrating around the body. Then you can put your cat or dog in a tub of lukewarm water. Scoop up water with your hand to gently rinse away the suds.
Some tips for bathing animals that don’t like water:
- If you are worried about biting and scratching, wear rubber gloves.
- Keep all doors and windows shut.
- Make sure you have all the equipment you need ready to go.
- Ask a friend for help. They can hold the animal while you rinse.
- Keep the process as stress-free as possible by giving your pet treats and softly talking to them.
- Pop the towel in the dryer for a few minutes to warm it up for a post-bath treat.
- Regular Checks
After the initial treatment, conduct weekly checks until you’re certain that your home and pet are a flea free-zone.
- Let Your Pet Groom Itself
Cats and dogs tend to groom more when they have fleas. This can also help to reduce fleas when done in tandem with treatment and regular checks. However, you should call your vet right away if your furry friend is excessively nipping, chewing, or scratching at themselves in a way that leads to hair loss or red, inflamed, or bloody skin, as this may be a sign of infection or an allergy.
Removing Fleas from Your Home
As mentioned earlier, fleas tend to live in the nearby environment when they are not feeding. In fact, a flea can survive without a host for many months. You will need to start by vigorously cleaning your pets favourite spots. Wash your pet’s bedding every couple of days. Make a point of switching your bedding regularly and wipe down all upholstery with a cleaning product that kills fleas. Aside from that, hoover the floor, carpets, mats, skirting boards and rugs regularly and throw away the hoover bag after each use. Use a carpet cleaner that kills fleas. Some products here!
Preventative Care
- Groom your pet regularly will not only help to nip any flea infestations in the bud, but it will also help to strengthen the bond between you.
- Consider investing in a flea-preventativecollar to be worn in high-risk periods (summer) or when your pet is just recovering from fleas.
- Talk to your vet about flea control products that are right for your pet.
