Prevention

Ticks are normally easier to spot than fleas, but don’t count on that. Not all ticks are big and easily visible. Try to avoid bushy areas when you go for a walk – this is where ticks hide the most. Use a residual pesticide that is registered for the treatment of ticks on dogs and cats, but NEVER use any dog products on cats. The ticks will digest the product and die.

Fleas can be difficult to get rid of once they are in your home. The ideal flea control programmes include products that target all the various stages of the flea lifecycle and treat the pet’s environment. Vacuum all carpets and upholstery to get rid of flea eggs and then discard the vacuum bag. Treat the environment with a product that is safe for pets and treat all pets with a monthly flea control product. See a list of products online at www.familypetcentre.co.za, visit our shop in Centurion, or the new store in Fourways Crossing.

Treatment

Once you spot a tick, you need to remove it with a pair of tweezers. Ensure that the head of the tick is removed. Thereafter, keep an eye on your pet for any sign of illness. Take him to your vet or Family Vet Clinic’s resident vet if you are worried, and they can treat him against tick-borne diseases if needed. The actual tick bite is not usually painful, but the parasite can transmit diseases like tick bite fever, which can be fatal.

Fleas cause itching and skin problems, and they can transmit diseases and infect pets with tapeworm. Ideally, consult a vet if your pet has problems with fleas.

Hiding Pests

Ticks are especially common in tall grass and bushes. The majority of the flea population, their eggs, larvae and pupae are also found in the environment. Carpets are an ideal breeding ground for fleas, and therefore it is important to vacuum your carpet at least every other day.

Bottom Line

Keep your home and pets free from fleas by cleaning your home regularly, and use preventative treatments on your pets.

Source:contentUtrust