Spring has sprung in Alabama. It is also flea season, and time for us to look at the measures we can take to protect our furry friends and ourselves from these pests.

Fleas, the most common parasite to companion animals, are wingless parasites that feed on blood. They have a lifespan up to one year and produce millions of offspring.

Fleas are easily carried indoors on the fur of your pet or even your clothing. Once indoors, fleas and their eggs can drop on carpets, upholstery, clothing and pet areas.

Symptoms of fleas on cats and dogs are nearly identical and include:

– Flea dirt and eggs on the skin or fur.

– Excessive scratching, biting or licking.

– Hair loss, scabs and hot spots.

– Tape worms.

– Allergic dermatitis.

– Pale gums and anemia.

Fleas consume nearly 15 times their body weight in blood daily. This can cause anemia and severe blood loss. This is especially dangerous in kittens and puppies whose red blood cells rapidly decline.

If you have a flea infestation, you should contact your vet immediately. Treating your pet for fleas includes pills, topicals, powders and shampoos. Never use a flea treatment made for dogs on your cat or kitten, as this may be fatal.

At the same time as treating your pet, you must treat your environment. Wash all bedding, rugs or clothing where your pet has been using hot water and soap. Flea powders for carpets are available and are easily applied and vacuumed up. If you feel your whole house may be affected, flea bombs work best. They are available at any hardware store. One bomb can be set off per room, but the home must be evacuated of all humans, animals, including caged animals, and aquariums must be covered. No food should be left out during treatments.

Once you have rid yourself of fleas, you will want to maintain your clean pet and spaces by washing bedding weekly and checking for fleas with a flea comb. A monthly preventative is also recommended for your pet in flea prone areas. If your yard has fleas, there are sprays available to treat your lawn and rid it of pests, or a pest control company can do it for you.

A parasite-free pet is a happy pet with a happy owner.