Jennifer Gardner | Posted: Saturday, April 21, 2007 10:00 pm
I found myself scratching my ankle the other day. I looked over at my dog, who was also scratching. Between the two of us, we're so sensitive that if there are any fleas in a several-mile radius, we'll know.
Here in Oregon, we see fleas begin to show up in the spring. And when you see a flea on your pet, know that there are about 99 more hiding in your carpet, your furnishings or your yard. A pair of fleas, with a lifespan of 6 to 12 months, can produce millions of offspring during their lifetimes. Yuck!
Some animals and most humans are allergic to the saliva of the flea, so their bites swell up into big, itchy bumps. There are cat fleas and dog fleas, which prefer to have the respective animal as their hosts, but both kinds will bite humans if a pet is not around.
What are the best ways to get a head start on fleas this year? First, remember that new fleas hatch every three to four weeks, so it could take that long to rid yourself of the pests. Be patient and be diligent. Also:
• Talk to your vet about regular flea treatment for your pet.
Advantage and Frontline are two of the more popular brands of flea treatment. Applied monthly, these medications are topical and keep fleas away for most of that time, although they can wash off when you wash your pet and may need to be reapplied at your vet's recommendation.
You don't need a prescription for these, but it's a good idea to work with your vet to decide which one will be best. Note that you must follow the directions on these products to the letter so they'll be safe for your pets.
Never use a treatment for a dog on a cat, or vice versa (since in the latter case they may not be as effective). Also, never use a dosage for an adult animal on a puppy or kitten. And if you're seeking to treat a pet rabbit or guinea pig, definitely get the right dosage from your vet (and never use Frontline on the smaller critters, as it can be fatal).
Check your pet from time to time by using a flea comb. If the topical medication isn't working, you'll have to consider an oral medication - your vet should be able to recommend one that will work best. Many vets find that dips and collars are no longer especially effective and won't recommend other products unless it's a last resort.
If you don't treat fleas on your pet right away, the animal can become more and more obsessive about scratching and even biting its skin. Areas where your pet bites itself the most, such as on front legs, can become raw and infected. It's important to react as soon as you notice any fleas on your pet, too, so that your house does not become an environment for more and more fleas.
• If you already have fleas in your house, wash your pet's bedding and cloth toys. Also vacuum carefully as doing so can remove eggs and larvae that are developing into the next generation of fleas. Don't forget to vacuum along the edges of rooms and under furniture.
Cushions and throw rugs should be removed and washed or vacuumed, too. When you're done vacuuming, remove the bag, seal it in a garbage bag and toss it in the outside garbage can so eggs don't hatch in the vacuum and re-invade your home.
• Forget about flea bombs and insecticides. Try a natural product like Fleabusters, which is made of inorganic salts that attach to the body of the flea and dehydrate it until it dies. Plus, it's a powder so it's easy to get into cracks and furniture.
• In your yard, try using beneficial nematodes. They are small worms that eat flea eggs on your property (as well as other unwanted insects) and are a non-chemical way to rid yourself of fleas and other nasty pests. Put them in a sprayer and apply them to moist areas - keep areas where you apply them damp. They can be purchased at many local garden stores.
Before the fleas move in this year, take necessary precautions so they won't be a problem. But be sure to do some research into the products you choose, so that they will be of maximum efficiency in your situation.
Jennifer Gardner is a freelance writer and editor and a board member at Heartland Humane Society in Corvallis. She enjoys writing about all animals but specializes in rabbits and other small pets. If you have questions or comments about this column or other pet issues, please e-mail Jennifer at jennifer@visualpeople.com or write c/o The Gazette-Times.