It’s that time of year again… That’s right, pet owners, tick and flea season has arrived. Did you know that, if left unchecked, fleas and ticks have the potential to cause your pet health issues? No need to panic, though. Here’s everything you need to know about getting a handle on these pesky pests – and protecting your fur babies!
How to know if your pet has ticks or fleas
While ticks and fleas can plague your pets all year round, they’re most commonly a problem during the warmer months. Here’s what to look out for on your fur baby:
Symptoms your dog may have ticks or fleas
- Excessive scratching or licking
- Irritated, red or raw skin on the belly, neck or hindlegs
- Scabs or hot spots on the skin
- Pale gums and a lack of energy
How to look for fleas and ticks on your pup
Get a better look at your doggo’s skin by using a fine-toothed comb. Comb from back to front and keep an eye out for:
- Small, moving specs that are brown, black or red
- Dark flea droppings
- White flea eggs
Symptoms your cat may have ticks or fleas
- Non-stop scratching
- Excessive grooming
- Hair loss or patchy skin
- Irritated, red skin
- Pale gums and a lack of energy
How to look for fleas and ticks on your kitty
Once again, grab that flea comb and look for small brown specs in your cat’s fur. Worried you’ve just spotted small dirt particles? Here’s a good test: Pop the specs onto some damp tissue or toilet paper. If they turn red, they’re definitely fleas. Check the following spots on your fur baby:
- Tail & base of tail
- Belly
- Neck
- Ears
- Head
How to safely remove a tick
So you’ve spotted a tick on your pup or kitty, what now? Pop gloves on and do the following:
- Use tweezers to grip the tick’s head - as close to your pets’ skin as you can get without hurting them.
- Pull upwards - no twisting or the head will get stuck.
- Remember not to pop or squeeze the tick.
- Wash the bite and your hands.
How to treat ticks and fleas?
There are loads of different flea and tick prevention products on the market. The following are recommended by experts:
- Shampoos like our Tick & Flea Shampoo for dogs and cats.
- Topical Treatments like Marltons Tick & FleaPro Spot-on For Dogs and Cats
- Dips - try Marltons Tick & Flea Dip For Dogs & Cats.
Last thought
Experts estimate that for every flea you find on your fur baby, there are 100 more in your home. To properly treat ticks and fleas, you’ll also need to treat the areas your pets spend time in too. Try our Tick & Flea Powder For Dogs & Cats.
For more pet care tips, check out more of our blog posts!
