11/01/2024
As we get further into the year we’re seeing more incidences of fleas, even on indoor cats. Unfortunately they can happen to even the most careful of pet parents. Check out these tips below on how to help prevent these unwelcome guests
Let's talk about Fleas! We have seen an increased amount of Flea infestations here at the clinic. Here's what you can do to protect you and your pets!
Flea prevention is the only way to protect against Fleas. It is important to have your pets on prevention YEAR ROUND. Fleas can live in temperatures as low as 46 degrees and it can take up to 5 days of below freezing temperatures to kill an adult Flea. At temperatures between 46 and 33 degrees an adult Flea can survive 10-20 days. Iowa winters just haven't been cold enough to kill Fleas and keep them dormant for the season!
Fleas aren't just a nuisance, they cause harm. Fleas can lead to severe itching, hair loss, and can be especially uncomfortable for pets who have a Flea allergy. Fleas also transmit infections and parasites like tapeworms and Bartonella. This can cause health issues in cats, dogs, and people. Flea infestation can cause anemia, and can even cause death in extreme situations where the infestation is left untreated.
We offer a few options here in the clinic of vet approved Flea prevention products! We have two prescription options:
⏺Bravecto: This lasts for 3 months at a time and comes in both a topical and oral option for dogs and a topical option for cats! Bravecto protects against Fleas and Ticks.
⏺Revolution: Revolution is a monthly topical prevention offered for dogs and cats. Revolution protects against Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworms.
⏺We also have one non- prescription option here in clinic called Vectra 3D. Vectra is a topical prevention that protects against Fleas in cats and Fleas and Ticks in dogs.
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=7955321
https://www.awcathens.com/news/fleas-in-the-winter #:~:text=Fleas%20can%20live%20in%20temperatures,varies%20between%2010%2D20%20days.