Dealing with fleas and ticks is one of the downsides of pet ownership, but it is one that must be tackled head on. Fleas and ticks can cause significant problems for your pet and for their human family members. Learning about these pesky parasites – namely, what you can do to prevent them from coming into contact with your pet – is a critically important part of responsible pet ownership.

Flea Fears

Fleas pack a powerful punch for being so tiny (an adult flea is about 1-2 mm in length). A female can lay up to 50 eggs in a day, which is why it only takes a few fleas on your pet to cause a full-blown infestation in your home.

Yes, they’re annoying and cause serious discomfort for your pet, but fleas can also pass on some pretty nasty pathogens, including Bartonella (cat-scratch fever), tapeworm, and even Bubonic plague.  

Flea and tick medication is essential to keep these pests away from your pet. Bathing and brushing your pet regularly, and making sure their bedding and other items are laundered frequently, will also help to cut down on the chances of fleas completing their life cycle in your home. Continue…