Most pet parents are aware of fact that the problem of fleas exists and it is harmful for both pets and humans. Therefore, treating environment and pet becomes important to check flea infestation.
However, it would be more helpful and effective, if treatment adopted to check flea infestation were in line with the best practices followed to treat flea problem in pets.
Here are five useful tips to upgrade your flea control program.
Always Treat The Environment First
It would be a mistake on part of a pet parent if he neglects the role of fleas present in his house and the surroundings. The flea cycle consisting of egg, larvae, pupa and adult present in the pet’s dwelling space, causes more harm in the long run than the pests on his body.
Getting rid of the fleas through flea preventives is only a battle half won. Therefore, treat the environment first by vacuuming your house regularly. This includes your pet’s bedding, his utensils, toys, etc. Clean the susceptible flea zones in your home like carpets, furniture, etc. Check flea infestation in outdoor area such as yard and kennel by using insecticides. Ensure your pet zone flea free and then help your pet get rid of fleas by using flea preventatives to restrict new flea infestation.
Check The Validity And Effectiveness Of The Flea Control Products
The market is flooded with flea control products, often making the pet parent confused on what would be the best flea solution to buy. Some flea preventives are ineffective and come with side effects. Therefore as a pet parent, the best way to find a suitable flea solution is to consult your vet and look for following ingredients in the product.
- Fipronil
- Permethrin
- Methoprene
Availability of the above ingredients ensures the effectiveness of a flea control product. Popular products that are known to be effective against flea infestation in pets are Frontline plus, Advocate (Advantage Multi), etc.
Keep Your Pet Away From Flea Infested Pets
While this may seem little hard, given the fact that interacting with other pets is healthy for a pet. However, if you find the other pet infested with fleas, it is better not to allow your pet to interact with him till he get rid of the fleas present on him.
Use Specific Products According To Species
Do not commit a mistake of using same flea preventative on dog as well as on cat. If you house both a feline and a canine, then make sure that you use separate flea preventives for both dogs and cats. For instance, a product such as Advantix is an effective flea control preventive for dogs. It is harmful for cats.
At the same time, do not allow your pet to lick the spot where the treatment is applied. For best results, ensure the treatment is applied on pet’s skin, as the fleas live on the skin of the pet rather than on the fur to suck blood.
Check Your Pet’s Body Regularly For Flea Infestation
This is important to check flea growth on your pet’s body. Use a flea comb and look for signs of flea dirt on your pet’s fur and skin. Use a pet shampoo to get rid of this dirt and eliminate the fleas with flea control products.
Consult your vet for further updates and insights to restrict flea entry in your pet’s life. Flea infestation in pets can greatly be reduced if you carefully devise a flea control protocol.