Spotlight on: Fleas

Think about an itchy pet and fleas are probably the first thing to spring to mind. These tiny bloodsucking insects are the most common external parasite of cats and dogs and can cause a great deal of itching and discomfort. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most frequently-asked questions about these little menaces.

How do pets get fleas?
Pets get fleas from being in an environment contaminated by another animal already infested with them.

Adult fleas living on an infested animal will lay eggs, which fall off the animal’s body as it moves around. In the environment, eggs hatch into larvae, which pupate and grow into adults.

Adults live in the environment until a suitable host arrives, then spend the rest of their lives on the host (which could be the same animal, or a different one).

In tropical climates like Singapore’s, the entire cycle can take as little as two weeks.

The flea life cycle (courtesy petcaresupplies.com)

But my pet never goes outside!
It’s a misconception that pets who spend most (or all) of their time indoors are safe from parasites. Here are some ways they could still be exposed:
• Many “indoor-only” pets still leave the house sometimes to go to places like the groomer’s. These are environments that can harbour fleas.

• Fleas can hitch rides on people. Meaning, even if your pet truly never leaves home, anyone who enters the house may still introduce fleas – this includes pet parents themselves!

What are signs of a flea infestation?
Increased scratching, rubbing, licking and/or biting is often the first sign noticed. You may also see hair loss or a red, bumpy rash.

Finding one or more adult fleas on your pet is a sure-fire sign of an infestation, although not seeing fleas doesn’t mean they’re not there! Adult fleas are small, dark brown and oval-shaped. They may jump when disturbed.

You might also notice dusty black specks in your pet’s fur, which could be flea dirt (poop). To confirm, place these specks on a wet white paper towel, then press them down with a cotton bud and drag them across. Flea dirt will leave red or reddish-brown smears (from digested blood).

Adult fleas (courtesy NexGard)

Flea dirt (courtesy PDSA)

Flea dirt on wet gauze (courtesy VIN)

I think my pet has fleas! What do I do?
Schedule a check-up with your regular veterinarian. They may recommend flea treatment, of which there are many available options. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice when using these products.

Various tasty chewables are available for dogs:
• Bravecto
• NexGard
• NexGard Spectra
• Simparica
• Simparica Trio

Spot-ons are convenient to apply for dogs and cats alike:

• Advocate
• Revolution
• Revolution Plus
• NexGard Combo

Unfortunately, if your pet has fleas, so does your home! Concurrent decontamination is crucial to rid your home of eggs and larvae. This might include:

• Regular vacuuming
• Washing fabrics in hot, soapy water
• Steam-cleaning items that can’t be washed

How long does it take to clear an infestation?
Flea infestations can take weeks or months to clear because larvae living in the environment serve as a constant source of new adult fleas. If you’re having trouble, you may wish to engage a professional exterminator.

Can fleas bite humans?
Although they prefer to feed on our pets, fleas can certainly bite humans if the infestation is heavy enough. Speak with your doctor if you think you are being bitten.

Fleas can be a real nuisance, but a little guidance from your veterinarian will make tackling an infestation much easier. We hope you’ve found the information in this article useful. Please speak with your veterinarian if you have specific queries about your pet.