Published in the Sept. 3- 16, 2014 issue of Morgan Hill Life

By Dr. Jeanne Haggerty-Arcay

The flea has been one of our pet’s enemies for many years. Although in the past 20 years innovative medicines have dramatically helped us control fleas on our pets, it is still a leading cause for veterinary visits.

Why should I care about fleas?

Experts say that we see less than 1 percent of the fleas on our pet. A single flea may actually indicate an infestation or can quickly turn into an infestation. It is common to see overwhelming amounts of flea dirt (or feces) on a pet without ever seeing an actual flea. Fleas can live in the yard, carpet, pet beds, or furniture and can be carried to your pet by wildlife such as raccoons, rodents, squirrels and deer.

Although we see more flea-related skin conditions during the warmer months, our temperate climate allows for fleas year round. They can become dormant during colder weather or when a host is not readily available. Seasonal flea control is often insufficient.
Fleas cause or contribute to many skin conditions in dogs and cats. Pets with skin allergies are particularly sensitive and small numbers of fleas can set off a reaction leading to itching, self-mutilation and skin infections. Any pet with skin allergies should be on consistent flea prevention, even if fleas are not seen.

Which flea product is right for my pet?

There are many types of flea products available, including topicals, pills and collars. The right flea product depends on your pet’s lifestyle. Does your pet swim? Bathe often? Live indoors or outdoors? Have tick exposure? Have wildlife that frequents your yard?
There are many safe and effective products on the market. But there are also products that are not safe, especially for cats. Most flea products are licensed by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), not the FDA (Federal Drug Administration). Therefore, most products do not have to undergo the rigorous research, safety and efficacy trials of traditional drugs.

Natural products are available but they are not regulated nor tested for safety. Natural does not mean safe.

What if the flea medication does not seem to be working?

There are several potential reasons why a flea medication might seem ineffective:

• In some cases an inappropriate medication has been chosen. For example, a dog who is constantly swimming will not respond as well to most of topical medications as some of the medication will be diluted or washed away.
• Most medications on the market are designed to be administered monthly. However, in some animals more frequent administration may be necessary, especially after swimming or baths or in animals with other allergies.
• Topicals will not be absorbed properly if the medication does not contact the skin.
• All animals in the household should be treated. If only one pet is treated, other pets will act as carriers and the flea problem will persist.
• For infestations, a single dose of medication will not be sufficient. It often requires six to twelve months of diligent treatment on all animals and the environment (yard and house) in order to control the fleas. Monthly treatments will remain essential.

Fleas can be extremely costly and frustrating for both you and your pet. It is much easier to prevent an infestation than to treat one.

Dr. Jeanne Haggerty-Arcay received her undergraduate degrees in biology, biochemistry and Spanish from the College of Notre Dame, Belmont. She graduated from U.C. Davis School of Veterinary Medicine. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and three young children, running, cycling and plans to return to her equestrian pastime in the near future.