They may be small, but fleas can create big trouble for pets and their families. A single flea bite can leave your dog or cat itching for days, and once these pests find a way into your home, they multiply quickly. The Colony Animal Clinic has seen how fast a minor flea problem can turn into a full-blown infestation. More importantly, we know that fleas can cause serious health concerns if not dealt with promptly.

Why Are Fleas Dangerous for Pets?

When most people think of fleas, they picture an itchy pet scratching at its skin. Itchiness can certainly be a symptom, but fleas do far more than cause discomfort. Their saliva can be an allergen, and pets may suffer from flea allergy dermatitis, a reaction that causes intense itching, hair loss, and red, irritated skin. Constant scratching can also break the skin and lead to painful bacterial or fungal infections.

In young or small pets, a heavy flea burden can even cause anemia, a dangerous condition where blood loss from flea feeding lowers red blood cell counts. On top of that, fleas can carry and transmit tapeworms, which pets can ingest while grooming.

Does Your Pet Have Fleas?

You don’t need to let your pet roam outdoors for fleas to become a problem. These pests can hop onto your pet during a walk, a trip to the park, or even from contact with another animal. Fleas can also come inside carried on another pet or piece of clothing. Once inside, fleas lay eggs in carpets, bedding, and upholstery. Flea eggs hatch between 1 and 10 days, making them difficult to eradicate without proper treatment.

Not every pet will show fleas crawling in their fur, but there are common warning signs. If you notice any of these, it’s time to have your pet checked.

• Frequent scratching, biting, or chewing at the skin
• Black specks that look like “pepper” in the coat (flea dirt)
• Red bumps or scabs, especially near the tail base or belly
• Thinning hair or bald patches
• Restlessness or irritability from constant discomfort

Flea Treatment Options

When fleas strike, it’s important to treat both your pet and their environment. A veterinarian will perform a skin exam and likely recommend prescription-strength preventatives to quickly kill adult fleas. Depending on the severity, they may also suggest medicated shampoos or topical treatments to soothe irritated skin.

Because fleas reproduce rapidly, treating your home is equally important. Washing pet bedding, vacuuming regularly, and using vet-approved household sprays can help break the cycle.

The good news is that fleas are preventable with consistent care. Year-round flea prevention is the most effective way to keep your pet comfortable and your home pest-free. These products are safe and protect your pet from fleas before they become a problem. Veterinarians don’t recommend relying on over-the-counter products, as many are less effective, or even unsafe, for certain pets.

 Flea Treatment in The Colony, TX

Fleas are a threat to your pet’s comfort and health. With the right prevention and treatment, you can keep your cat or dog itch-free. The Colony Animal Clinic provides safe flea control for pets in The Colony and from nearby areas like Castle Hills and Frisco. If you suspect your pet has fleas or are looking to start them on flea prevention, schedule a visit at our veterinary clinic.