Fleas - how to get rid of them!

Fleas

Fleas are tiny insects that irritate our pets by biting them. The pet then starts biting or licking itself, trying to get rid of the fleas. This can result in bald, raw patches, or rashes. Fleas use the pet as a host, sucking blood. The female can lay 2 000 eggs in her lifetime. The eggs fall off and lie dormant wherever the pet has been - eg in the bed, on the carpet, chairs, floor and garden. Regular sweeping, washing and vacuuming of the pet's environment will help get rid of eggs. Larvae emerge from the eggs which eat the dirt in the surroundings, then turn into pupae. From the pupa emerges an adult flea, which jumps on to the pet, and the circle starts again.

One can sometimes find nests of fleas, especially behind the neck where the pet cannot groom itself. Another sign is black specks, which is dried blood. This may turn red when the pet is bathed.

Fleas also attack humans, leaving small red itchy spots. They are hard to catch as they can jump. They are a host for tapeworm, which can affect your dog or cat, if they swallow a flea.

In South Africa, the winter is not cold enough to kill all the fleas, so we need to take precautions all year round. There are many remedies on the market - dips, powders and liquids. Your vet will advise. There are also sprays available to spray the house and garden. This kills larvae