SCRATCH ATTACKS Flea numbers jumping in pandemic
GET ready for a scratchy summer as skipped visits to the vet and hot, humid weather look likely to trigger a flea invasion.
The flea population has spiked in recent years, with warm weather creating the perfect breeding ground. But the pandemic has made matters worse.
Dr Karlien Heyrman, boss at Pets at Home, said: “As exercise limitations have been lifted and we’re enjoying longer periods of time outdoors with our pets, the risk of flea eggs being carried into our homes from dogs and cats is high.
“Our homes have become a sanctuary for both work and play and the last thing pet owners need is a flea infestation in the environment where they are spending the majority of their time.
“If left untreated, long-term flea infestations can cause real suffering. Repeated bites can be uncomfortable and itchy for an animal, sometimes resulting in hair loss or a secondary skin infection. Fleas may also bite humans so seeking regular preventative treatment is a sensible precaution.”
The warmer the weather, the faster flea eggs develop into adults. At a cool 13C it takes 140 days but when temperatures hit around 30C it can take as little as 22. And those fleas can get busy laying up to 50 eggs every day.
One in ten owners has found treating their pets for parasites more difficult during the pandemic, with 15 per cent struggling to reach pet shops and vets.
Vets advise regularly treating all cats and dogs with a preventative flea treatment throughout the year. Also check their coat for fleas or flea droppings, which look like brown or black spots
It makes sense to treat homes, work places and cars with a household flea spray but be careful using it near fish tanks as many are toxic to fish.
Wash pet bedding frequently and clean furniture to help destroy fleas at the egg, larval or adult stage.
Vigorously vacuum carpets, floorboards and skirting boards – and chuck out the contents after each clean.
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