Dog and cat owners warned warmer weather can create perfect breeding ground for fleas

Pet owners have been warned to stay alert as weather conditions in the coming days are set to create a perfect breeding ground for fleas.

It is common knowledge that the pests thrive in warm weather and damp conditions are also perfect for the insects.

Karen Heskin, head of pets at Pets at Home Grou p, said: “Fleas can be a nuisance for both pets and owners. They can cause irritation and the flea lifecycle can result in our cats and dogs getting tapeworms. We recommend regularly checking for fleas, especially if your pet goes outside.

“But the good news is that fleas can be easily controlled, although it’s best to act fast to limit the impact on your pet and your home.”

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With warm temperatures and rain showers forecast for much of the UK, experts from Pets at Home Group have shared tips to help keep pets protected:

Know how to check

It’s a good idea to get in the habit of regularly checking your pet for fleas to make sure there aren’t any lurking about. You should do a thorough check through your pet’s fur and keep an extra close eye on the armpits, groin area, back of the neck and base of the tail, as these are popular flea hideouts.

Dead fleas stuck on a dog’s fur
(Image: Getty Images)

Look out for changes in behaviour

Fleas can cause a great deal of discomfort and annoyance for your pet, so if you notice certain changes in their behaviour, these pesky parasites may well be to blame. Scratching or biting, grooming excessively, red patches of skin and hair loss can all be symptoms of having fleas. If your pet is showing any of these signs, consult a vet.

It’s not just cats and dogs

Fleas don’t just affect cats and dogs. In fact, they can become a problem for most furry pets, such as rabbits. Remember, never use a dog flea treatment on a cat. Some ingredients in dog products can be toxic to cats. Please ask a vet or pet care specialist for advice.

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Treat your home as well as your pet

Flea larvae hatch from eggs that can live anywhere in the home – from a pet’s bedding to carpets and soft furnishings.

Giving your pet’s bedding a hot wash and cleaning cushions, sofas and carpets where your dog or cat likes to relax will help kill any flea eggs and larvae that could be there. You should also replace your vacuum dust bag or filter, as fleas can survive inside.

Set regular reminders to keep on top of treatments

Preventing a flea infestation is much easier than curing one and the best way to protect your pet from fleas is having a regular treatment routine in place. While fleas thrive in warm, wet weather, they live year-round.

Treatments are usually completely hassle-free as they come as a ‘spot on’ product that’s quick and easy to administer. Regular check-ups with a vet will help make sure that your pet is happy and healthy.

While fleas thrive in warm, wet weather, they live year-round. It’s worth setting a monthly reminder on your phone to treat your pet with a preventative flea treatment, or consider a subscription service to get flea treatments delivered directly to your door.

For more stories from where you live, visit InYourArea.

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