Fleas are a nuisance to pet owners everywhere. However, these pests are more than an inconvenience; when left untreated, they can cause serious health issues for your pet. The following information on the impact of fleas on dogs and cats will help you understand why pest control should be a priority in your household.

A Pest Control Guide to Pets & Fleas 

1. Itching & Irritation

When fleas bite your pet to consume their blood, they irritate the skin. This creates an unpleasant need for itching. Some pets even have a heightened sensitivity to flea saliva, which causes an allergic reaction. This itching can make your pet unhappy and irritable.

2. Hair Loss

Your pet will constantly be scratching, gnawing, and licking themselves in an attempt to relieve their discomfort. As they work at an irritated spot, they might wear away fur and create bald patches on their body and legs. Since fur is meant to serve as protective insulation, any bare spots will leave their skin open to further irritation or injury.

3. Tapeworms

Many fleas are carriers of tapeworms; the most common in the United States is Dipylidium caninum. Without effective pest control, there is a chance this tapeworm may enter your home. When your dog or cat swallows a flea infected with the tapeworm larvae, it enters their digestive tract, where it can grow into a full-sized adult. Tapeworms can lead to problems such as unhealthy weight loss or irritated colons.

The pest control team at Pep Co. is dedicated to protecting your family—two-legged and four-legged members alike—from any unpleasant infestations. Their exterminator offers a full range of services to protect against all pests, from fleas to bed bugs. They’ve been the trusted contractor of the Kearney, NE, area for more than 30 years; when you work with them, you’ll see why. Contact them online or at (308) 236-6103 to schedule your service.