Fleas: Small Pests, Big Problem
- arivena3
- Nov 11
- 3 min read
Dr. Lopez, DVM:
Fleas are one of the most common (and most frustrating) parasites we encounter on our pets. These tiny insects can cause intense itching, allergic reactions, and even transmit diseases or tapeworms. How do we recognize a flea infestation, and what is the best way to treat them?
How to Recognize Fleas
Fleas are small, dark brown insects about the size of a sesame seed or smaller. They have flat bodies and can often be seen on your pet’s skin by parting their fur. You may also see them jumping, especially after combing your pet.
Flea dirt, or flea poop, looks like tiny black “pepper-like” specks. This is actually digested blood from the flea’s feeding. Flea dirt can be found on your pet’s fur or in their bedding.
If you’re unsure whether you’ve found flea dirt or regular dirt, try this simple test:
Place the speck on a white paper towel.
Moisten it with water and rub gently.
If the paper towel turns reddish-brown, it’s flea dirt.
Cats are excellent groomers, which can make finding live fleas or flea dirt difficult. A flea comb can help detect low numbers of fleas or their droppings.
How Will My Pet React to Fleas?
Fleas can cause varying levels of itch in pets. Some pets experience mild irritation, while others develop intense itching and discomfort. Pets who are allergic to flea bites (flea allergy dermatitis) often show more redness, hair loss, and sensitivity than others.
It’s common to see hair loss near the tail base in dogs. Cats may develop scabs or small crusts on the back, neck, or head.
Flea Treatments
If fleas are suspected- or if your pet is itchy- it’s best to start with a prescription flea prevention that lasts for at least one month. All pets in the household should be placed on flea prevention if there’s a suspected infestation.
CAMP carries a variety of prescription products. Talk with your veterinarian about which one is best suited for your pet’s age, species, and lifestyle. We recommend continuing flea prevention for at least three months, as flea eggs in the home can take weeks to months to hatch. Ideally, pets should remain on prevention year-round to avoid reinfestation.
Flea baths are usually not necessary when using prescription prevention. These baths only kill fleas present on the animal at that moment and don’t prevent new fleas from hopping on afterward. If you do use a flea bath, avoid applying topical prevention within 48 hours before or after bathing, since recent baths can affect how well the medication absorbs.
Flea collars vary in effectiveness and may not provide full protection. The Seresto® collar works differently from traditional flea collars and can be more effective for some pets. Discuss your options with your veterinarian.
Environmental Cleaning
Prescription flea prevention is the most important part of controlling an infestation, but environmental cleaning can help speed up the process:
Vacuum daily for at least a week, especially along baseboards, under furniture, and around pet bedding. Dispose of the vacuum bag or empty the canister outside immediately.
Wash all bedding- both pet and human- in hot water and dry on high heat.
Use a household flea spray or fogger containing an insect growth regulator (IGR) to kill eggs and larvae. Always follow label directions closely.
Tapeworms
Tapeworms can be transmitted by infected fleas and may appear months after a previous flea infestation. Watch for small, rice-like segments around your pet’s anus or in their stool. If you see these, your pet likely needs a tapeworm deworming.
CAMP offers deworming through our walk-in vaccine clinics, no appointment needed.
If you suspect fleas or need help choosing the right preventative, contact CAMP today at 310-574-5555. Our team is here to help your pet stay comfortable, healthy, and flea-free year-round.
