Fleas are a pesky problem for pets

As the weather warms up, pet owners might notice their furry friends are scratching themselves more than normal. When this happens, it is possible the pet has fleas.

Dr. Elisabeth Giedt, director of Continuing Education, Extension and Community Engagement at the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences at Oklahoma State University, said fleas are a constant source of irritation for pets.

“Fleas like to ‘run around’ near the tail area or you may see them on the belly of your pet. Flea dirt, which is actually flea poop, appears as dark specks the size of grains of pepper,” Giedt said.

“To check to see if it actually is fleas, a pet owner can place this flea dirt on a sheet of white paper and apply a drop of water. Since fleas consume blood, some of that blood is excreted, and the flea dirt appears red when the drop of water is applied.”

Now is the time of year when fleas thrive, so it is the prime time to see an infestation. However, since many pets reside indoors, fleas also can be a year-round problem.

In addition, they can be the source of flea allergy dermatitis.

Giedt said if fleas cannot find a blood meal by biting a cat or dog, they are not opposed to feeding on humans.

“You may move into a new home that has not had pets for a year or two. The fleas have been simply waiting for a food source, and both you and your pets can become a target,” she said. “A flea infestation in and around your home may result in you getting bit, which can cause an allergic response."

Areas that support flea development are pet bedding, furniture cushions, carpeting, rugs, flower beds, gardens, dog houses and spaces under decks and porches.

“To control fleas, they must be removed from all sources, including the pet, the home and the yard.” Giedt said

For a flea program to be successful, it must involve a thorough cleaning to remove the eggs, larvae and pupae. It includes a complete application of flea control products as prescribed by a veterinarian.

For more information, go to osufacts.okstate.edu and search for the OSU Fact Sheet VTMD — 9121 Flea Control.