| All about those
blood-sucking parasites:
Fleas are tiny wingless critters that annoy pets and disgust
owners. Most pet owners will battle fleas or the allergic response
fleas can cause. Flea allergy dermatitis-an inflammation and irritation
of the skin-is the most common skin allergy in dogs and cats.
"Adult fleas are blood-sucking parasites that require a
host, such as a dog or cat, for protection, food, and survival.
When a flea bites an animal, a variety of irritating and/or allergy-causing
substances from its saliva are injected into the skin," explains
Dr. Adam Patterson, a veterinarian completing a residency in veterinary
dermatology at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching
Hospital in Urbana.
Although flea allergies may have a genetic component, there are
no known breed, sex, or age predispositions. Animals with environmental
allergies may be more likely to develop flea allergies, however.
Dogs and cats generally develop this allergy between 2 and 4 years
of age.
"Flea allergy is an extremely itchy condition that can be
triggered by only a couple of flea bites. The abdomen and rump
are the most commonly affected areas in the dog. These itchy areas
may develop oozing scabs. Cats, on the other hand, typically overgroom;
they may have hair loss but not develop skin lesions," says
Dr. Patterson.
Fleas enjoy temperatures in the seventies and like 70 to 80 percent
humidity. They do not do well at high altitudes. In most areas
these restrictions make flea allergy a seasonal problem, rearing
up in the spring and summer. Animals residing in southern states
may have fleas and the resulting allergic reaction year round.
Diagnosis of a flea allergy is made based on pet's history, examination
of the skin, presence of fleas, and response to treatment. Fleas
may be seen crawling on the dog or cat. Fleas in hiding may be
hard to spot, so veterinarians examine affected areas looking
for flea excrement, also known as flea dirt, which looks like
small, black to rust colored, comma-shaped dandruff. Unfortunately
the absence of fleas or flea dirt does not rule out flea allergies.
To confirm that the particles found on a pet are flea dirt, place
the substance on a wet paper towel. Flea dirt will turn a red
or reddish-brown color signifying digested blood.
"Treatment for flea allergies requires flea control. In
heavily infested areas, flea control treatment must include all
in-contact pets and the pets indoor and outdoor environments.
Skipping any of these areas may mean treatment won't be successful.
If there's not a heavy infestation, treating the pet may be all
that's necessary," says Dr. Patterson.
Flea preventatives are the simplest way to treat animals. If
your pet has flea allergies, a topical adult flea preventative
is better than an oral product. The goal is to kill adults before
they bite so the animal is not exposed to saliva. Many products
require monthly application.
Following the application instructions is critical to successful
therapy. Your veterinarian may decide year round flea treatment
is necessary. In addition, Dr. Patterson warns, "Products
containing permethrin should not be used on cats. This chemical
is toxic to cats."
Other therapy may be needed, depending on the severity of the
allergic reaction. Antibiotics, steroids, and anti-histamines
may be used to treat a secondary bacterial infection, helping
to decrease the itching. Skin problems tend to clear up in 1 to
3 months after starting therapy. Treating flea allergies alone
is not enough for a pet with multiple allergies. Your veterinarian
will work with you to identify and treat the cause of your pet's
discomfort.
"Flea allergies carry a good to excellent prognosis. Most
pets live happy, itch-free lives after diagnosis and treatment.
However, it must be remembered that this is an allergy that must
be managed throughout the life of the pet. Altering or discontinuing
recommended flea control can result in a miserable itchy pet!"
says Dr. Patterson.
Getting rid of fleas will make both pet and owner happy. For
more information on specific flea control products or with questions
about diagnosing and treating flea allergies, contact your local
veterinarian.
Additional Summer Topics:
Animal
bites information & first aid
Summer: A Dangerous
Time for Dogs
Summer
tips for pet safety
|
