Flea, Lice & Tick Infestations: Protecting Pets Requires Dual Approach - Animal & Habitat
SAO PAULO, BRAZIL – Flea, lice, and tick infestations pose a significant health risk to dogs and cats, demanding a comprehensive strategy that addresses both the animal and its surroundings, veterinary experts say. Eliminating these ectoparasites requires not only direct treatment of the pet but also rigorous environmental cleaning and, potentially, chemical applications – all best guided by a veterinarian.
The presence of fleas, lice, or ticks necessitates intervention to safeguard an animal’s well-being. Products are available to eliminate the parasites, repel them, or disrupt their reproductive cycle and advancement. Consulting a veterinarian is crucial to determine the most suitable product for a specific animal.
However, treating the animal alone is insufficient. Ectoparasites are small and reproduce rapidly, making environmental control essential. Flea eggs, larvae, and pupae accumulate in cracks in floors, walls, animal housing, and even backyards. “Therefore,the cleaning of the environment should be done rigorously.Blankets,clothes and walks have to be sanitized or changed frequently,” advises veterinarian Valéria Natascha Teixeira.
Chemical treatments for the environment can kill adult ectoparasites,but caution is paramount to avoid harming animals,people,or the environment.
Preventative measures include maintaining environmental hygiene, inspecting animals after walks, regular bathing, and utilizing ectoparasite control products. Available preventative products include collars, topical pipettes, sprays, powders, and tablets. Again, veterinary consultation is recommended to select the most appropriate preventative option for each animal.
“Environmental hygiene, animal inspection after walks, baths and the use of products to combat ectoparasites are the main forms of prevention for fleas, lice, ticks and diseases transmitted by them,” Teixeira states.