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Most people incorrectly blame the mid 14th century bubonic plague on rats, when fleas that transmitted the bacteria from rats to humans, were as much, if not more, to blame. The bubonic plague has long been eradicated, but fleas are still causing pets and their owners problems.

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With good eyesight you can see them with the naked eye, but most of the time fleas and their eggs go unnoticed as they hide in our pets’ fur, our carpets and furnishings. One of the two main types of unwanted parasites (the other being intestinal worms), fleas live in the environment and are stimulated to jump (up to 18cm high!!) onto you cat or dog where they bite and feed; and they won’t stop at animals choosing to bit us for an opportunity to feed.

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Although largely harmful, they do cause a nuisance to the pet. Some suffer from allergic reactions to the flea saliva resulting in rashes, anaemia in severe cases, and if left untreated they can cause further skin problems where the pet scratches at the itching.

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Scratching and flea “dirt” (excess blood consumed by the adult flea and deposited as faeces in the pets fur, visible as small black deposits) is a key indication that your pet has fleas and requires treatment. Treatment is easy and safe for you and your pet. Usually these consist of preparations applied to the back of the neck, medicated collars or sprays. Environmental sprays are also available from your vet and local pet store to reduce the overall flea population in your house. Which ever method is used, regular treatment is required to ensure that fleas are kept under control and pets and humans are left in itch free peace.

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For more information, help and advice, find a vet local to you on the My Pet Friends pet directory.

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