Fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance. They can make your pet extremely uncomfortable and cause several different types of illnesses, like flea allergy dermatitis and tapeworm infestations. Wantage Veterinary Hospital can evaluate your pet to determine the best type of flea prevention medication.
Pet Health Hazards Of Fleas And Ticks
Fleas and ticks carry diseases that can cause serious harm to your pet. The most common problem associated with fleas is flea allergy dermatitis, which causes excessive itching, skin inflammation, sores and hair loss. The second most common problem associated with fleas is tapeworms. Fleas can carry tapeworm eggs, and when the flea bites your pet, the egg can be deposited under your pet’s skin, causing a tapeworm infestation.
Ticks are known to carry many different types of bacteria that can cause Anaplasmosis and Lyme disease. Lyme disease causes lethargy, pain in your pet's joints and a decrease in appetite. Anaplasmosis can cause joint pain and low platelets which can lead to bleeding issues.
For pets who are small or advanced in age, a severe flea infestation can cause anemia, which is characterized by rapid breathing, lack of appetite and excessive sleeping. If you suspect your pet has anemia due to fleas, it is an emergency situation.
For more information on our flea and tick prevention services or to schedule another type of service, like your pet’s yearly wellness examination, call us at 973-875-7297 today.
