Pets are beloved members of families. And whoever said these little furry friends are not part of their family has probably never felt the love these pets give! As a pet parent, you want to do everything you can to keep them healthy and happy—even if it means splurging your money on pet wellness products. However, with the warmer months approaching, you should be more aware of the dangers of fleas and ticks. These tiny parasites can cause a range of diseases in your furry friends.
Here, you can explore the top diseases pets can acquire from fleas and ticks and how to prevent them.
Lyme Disease:
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection with one bite of an infected tick. Your furry friend can suffer from symptoms, including fever, joint pain, and fatigue. Unfortunately, it can lead to more severe conditions if left untreated. Your pet can suffer from heart disease and nerve damage. Dogs are particularly susceptible to Lyme disease. But cats are no exception! They can also catch the infection. Use a flea and tick spray to beat this disease!
Anaplasmosis:
Another disease to prevent from using a flea and tick spray is anaplasmosis. This bacterial infection transmitted by ticks can cause fever, lethargy, and muscle weakness in dogs. Unfortunately, some severe cases can lead to organ failure and death. Cats can also get infected, but it is less common.
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever:
Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a severe bacterial infection transmitted by infected ticks. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and muscle pain. Without prompt treatment and regular use of a flea and tick spray, it can lead to organ failure and death. Dogs and humans are the most commonly affected by this disease.
Cat Scratch Disease:
Cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection caused by the bacteria Bartonella henselae. Prevent the risks of your pet acquiring this through a flea and tick spray. Cats can carry the bacteria without showing symptoms, but humans can become infected with just one scratch or bite from an infected cat.
Tapeworms:
Tapeworms are parasitic worms that can infect dogs and cats by ingesting infected fleas. Tapeworms are not usually life-threatening. But that does not mean you should stay laid back. Consider using a flea and tick spray. Save your pet baby from weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhoea! Also, they can cause extreme discomfort and digestive issues in your furry friend.
Flea Allergy Dermatitis:
Flea allergy dermatitis is a skin condition caused by an allergic reaction to flea saliva. Pets with this condition may experience intense itching, hair loss, and skin irritation. Without a flea and tick spray, it can lead to bacterial infections and other skin problems.
Prevention is better than cure! That applies to protecting pets from these diseases. Besides using pet health products, here are some tips to help prevent fleas and ticks:
- Use flea and tick preventatives. Speak to your vet about the best preventatives for your pet. You can find many options in the market, including flea and tick sprays, topical treatments, collars, and oral medications.
- Keep your pet groomed. Doing so detects any signs of fleas or ticks on your pet’s skin. Brushing your pet’s coat can also help remove loose fur and prevent matting.
- Vacuum regularly. Fleas and ticks can hide in carpets, upholstery, and bedding. Besides using a flea and tick spray, regular vacuuming can help remove any eggs or larvae that may be present.
- Ticks thrive in tall grass and wooded areas. Keep your yard well-maintained to reduce the risk of tick infestations.
- Check your pet regularly, especially their skin and fur. Promptly remove ticks with tweezers, and speak to your vet if you notice any unusual symptoms.
For pet health products, check out Pet Health Global. Visit their website to score their pet product collection and keep your furry friend healthy and happy.