There are a number of different methods you can use to rid your pet of fleas. The most important thing is to follow the products directions. Some people think that by applying more chemicals and medication it will rid your pet of fleas in a more effective way. This is not true. If you think about it, you are applying your beloved pet with chemicals and medication, you would not follow that same course of action with children, so do not follow it with your pet.
There are a number of flea control products on the market, all of which claim to rid your pet of fleas. Certain products work better than others, and it really depends on how your pet adapts to them and works with them.
Here are some products that you should consider:
Flea shampoos
A good starting point is to use flea shampoos on your pet, especially if they have a rather large affected area. Obviously cats are a little more difficult to bath than dogs, so if you are a cat owner a flea bath may not be the ideal first point of call.
Flea shampoo is a great way to treat affected areas, but they are not a lasting control measure. Most pet owners advise that the shampoo works for a few days, and that pet owners should invest in another control method to help manage any potential affected flea areas.
Flea shampoos are also full of chemicals, which attach themselves to your pet. So be careful just how frequently you use them as it could leave lasting damage to your pets skin. More information can be found online, on website like www.petfleas.co.uk
(Thanks to Christopher Connell for this great photo, via Flickr)
Flea dips
Flea dips are another chemical solution that you can use on your pet. They not only get rid of fleas, but also mites and ticks too. Flea dips use a very strong chemical solution which leaves a residue on your pet. They should only be used under guidance from your vet, and be careful to follow the products guidelines and instructions.
Flea collars
The flea collar works by emitting a toxic gas that is absorbed in to your pet’s skin. This then kills the fleas in the affected areas. Obviously the area in which the gas is absorbed is close to the collar area, so this is usually the neck and head of the pet.
Flea powders and sprays
These often only provide a short term solution of approx. 2-3 days. They provide protection from fleas, but some products also offer protection from ticks and mites too. The product themselves are very trustworthy and effective, however they have become second fiddle to the spot-on treatments.
Spot-on treatments
If you have never used spot-on treatments before, they are usually placed between the shoulder blades of your pet and the solution normally lasts around a month or so. They work by killing the adult fleas on your pet, as well as inhibiting the growth of larva from emerging flea eggs.
These are just some of the most common flea treatments on the market. Remember, each works differently and you should try a few of the products to see which one works best for your pet and your household.
