The hot, humid days of summer cause an increase in the incidence of ectoparasites. And in the case of pets, fleas and ticks are the most common, causing a variety of problems.
Far beyond itching, fleas and ticks transmit and cause various diseases.
So read on in this article:
- Why do ectoparasites increase in summer?
- What problems do ectoparasites cause?
- How to protect pets from fleas and ticks?
Why do ectoparasites increase in summer?
The heat and humidity caused by increased rainfall are perfect conditions for ectoparasites to proliferate.
Fleas and ticks are present all the time, but it is in the summer that they are most prevalent.
According to experts, for every flea we find on our pets, there are at least 20 more in the environment. In other words, without the necessary care, they will increase more and more.
The same goes for ticks, which, although fewer in number, are also a cause for concern.
What problems do ectoparasites cause?
First of all, you need to understand that ectoparasites live on the outside of animals' bodies. They are parasites that remain on the skin and feed on blood.
By biting an animal to feed on its blood, they become vectors of various diseases.
Fleas and ticks are the most common. And among the problems they cause, we highlight:
- itching;
- skin lesions;
- ehrlichiosis (tick-borne disease);
- babesiosis (infection caused by protozoa of the genus Babesia);
- leishmaniasis (infection caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania);
- allergic dermatitis to flea bites (DAPP).
There are other diseases, but the ones mentioned here are the most common and are enough to worry about the health of animals.
In the case of leishmaniasis, a public health problem, it is caused by a mosquito popularly known as the straw mosquito, and can be combated by vaccination.
How to protect pets from fleas and ticks?
The best way is always prevention.
In the case of rooms, they should always be clean, dry and well ventilated.
Your pet's bed, as well as blankets and places where they usually stay, should be cleaned periodically.
When out and about, you need to be careful. It's good to avoid contact with other pets, as well as passing through areas that may be infected with ectoparasites.
The Leishmaniasis mosquito can be combated by not leaving standing water, and also by disposing of decaying organic materials such as food waste and leaves that fall from trees. Household waste should also be properly dealt with.
As for pets, regular baths and basic hygiene care help prevent and combat ectoparasites. But as long as they are infected, you should consult a veterinarian, who will indicate the correct form of treatment.
For baths, you can count on Linha Dermato from Soft Care, which even has products for sensitive and sensitized skin, which brings comfort to pets.
It's also important to check your pet's coat for fleas, ticks and others.
