With the hot summertime weather, we see flowers bloom, more sunshine, and we spend more time outdoors. However, summertime also brings things we don’t like to see, such as fleas, ticks, wasps, and other insects. While we usually just swat the flies or mosquitoes away and stay away from bees, our pets don’t have the same luxury. There are pests, such as fleas and ticks, waiting to jump in their fur coat as soon as they step outside. Fleas set up shop and multiply very quickly right in the fur of your pet. More than likely you don’t even notice your pet has fleas until you notice bites on yourself, or when they start scratching frequently.
Here are a few ways you can spot fleas on your pet before they get out of control:
Red Patches On Skin
If you notice an abnormal red patch on your pet’s skin, it could be a sign of fleas. Flea’s saliva can be allergenic for some cats and dogs, causing a rash or wound on any part of their body. Red patches can also be caused by excessive scratching, licking or biting.
Hair Loss
If your pet has begun losing hair in some patches, it could be a medical issue caused by a multitude of things and isn’t uncommon. However, it could also be caused by flea bites due to the constant licking and scratching that is usually a major sign of fleas.
Pale Gums
Pale gums are a symptom of anemia, which happens when the new red blood cell count isn’t enough to replace the amount of blood being sucked out of your pet. While pale gums can be a sign of many different things, it is a large red flag that your pet has a flea infestation.
Flea Particles
Blackish-brown specks on your pet’s body or around your home can be a sign of accumulated flea feces and digested blood. (Pretty gross right?) To find these specks, wear white socks around areas that are frequented by your pet and see what the bottom picks up. This can be a big sign that not only does your pet have fleas, but they have infested your home as well.
If you have a flea problem in or outside of your home, you should contact a professional pest control company in Madison, Alabama. A flea exterminator can get rid of your problem quickly and efficiently.