Flea Control: A Pet Owner’s Guide

Every fall, we face the same challenge: flea infestations. Despite what many pet owners think, fleas don’t disappear after Labor Day. In fact, fall is for fleas, and at Best Friends Veterinary Care in Nesconset, New York, we are seeing an influx of itchy dogs and cats whose owners are shocked to discover they have a full-blown flea infestation. Fleas are relentless, and if you’ve ever experienced an infestation, you know how much better prevention is than treatment. Year-round flea prevention is essential for all pets—yes, even indoor cats! Learn more about our services here.

Recognizing a Flea Infestation

Signs and Symptoms:

Fleas can make your pet’s life miserable with constant itching and discomfort. Common signs include excessive scratching, biting, or licking, especially around the base of the tail. You might notice hair loss, red skin, or scabs. Another telltale sign is finding “flea dirt”—tiny black specks on your pet or in their bedding that resemble pepper.

Checking for Fleas:

To check for fleas, use a flea comb over your pet’s coat. If the comb picks up fleas or black specks, place them on a wet paper towel. If the specks spread out like a stain, it’s flea dirt, and your pet has fleas. For more tips on identifying fleas and other skin conditions, check out our pet skin care guide.

The Flea Life Cycle and Why It Matters

Fleas are not just an annoyance; their complex life cycle makes them hard to eliminate. Fleas go through four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. What you see on your pet represents only about 5% of the total flea population—most are lurking in your carpets, furniture, or yard. The adult fleas lay eggs, and within weeks, your home can be filled with hundreds of new fleas. If not addressed, these eggs can hatch months later, restarting the infestation when you least expect it.

One flea jumping onto your pet during a walk can lead to thousands of eggs in your home. Fleas are even becoming resistant to some commonly used medications, making it more important than ever to choose effective, veterinarian-recommended products.

Flea Prevention Strategies

Year-Round Protection:

Many pet owners mistakenly believe fleas are only a summer problem. However, fleas can thrive year-round, especially indoors. Whether it’s hot or cold outside, your pet needs flea protection throughout the year.

Veterinary-Recommended Products:

At Best Friends Veterinary Care, we emphasize that prevention is better than treatment. There are many options for flea control, including topical treatments, oral medications, and flea collars. Our veterinarians can help you choose the right product for your pet, ensuring it’s safe and effective. Year-round protection is essential for every pet, and you can schedule an appointment to discuss the best plan for your furry family member.

Environmental Control:

Fleas can hide and breed in your home. Regular vacuuming, washing your pet’s bedding in hot water, and treating your yard can help keep flea populations under control. Since environmental factors like weather play a role, flea outbreaks can vary each year. 

Treating a Flea Infestation

Consult Your Veterinarian:

If you discover fleas on your pet, it’s important to act quickly. Our veterinarians at Best Friends Veterinary Care can create a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s needs, combining medication with environmental strategies to eradicate fleas from your home.

Treating the Environment:

It’s not enough to just treat your pet—you need to treat your entire home to prevent re-infestation. This includes vacuuming, washing all pet bedding, and possibly using veterinarian-approved home treatments. Consult us for advice on how to fully eliminate fleas from your home and prevent their return.

Dealing with fleas is frustrating, but prevention can save you and your pet from the discomfort and hassle of an infestation. Fleas can transmit diseases and cause serious health issues, so it’s essential to keep your pets protected year-round. By understanding the flea life cycle, implementing preventive measures, and treating infestations early, you can ensure your pets stay happy and flea-free.

Don’t let fleas take over your home. Contact Best Friends Veterinary Care today to discuss the best flea prevention plan for your pet and schedule an appointment. Let’s work together to keep your pet happy, healthy, and flea-free all year round.