If you share your house with a cat or dog, you may have unknowingly invited a number of more unwanted creatures into your home environment. For much as we may love them, our pets are prone to picking up parasites such as fleas, ticks and worms. And as well as being harmful to your pet’s health, many parasites can also be transmitted to humans, causing a range of symptoms. The good news is that with a trip to the vets and the doctor or pharmacist, most parasites can be easily dealt with.
Fleas
Fleas are one of the most common parasites which dogs and cats pick up – particularly in warmer months. They breed quickly and can spread throughout your home and will feed on both your pet’s blood and human blood. If you are bitten by fleas it can be very itchy and uncomfortable but your pharmacist will be able to recommend treatment to ease the discomfort. You will of course need to use a vet-approved flea treatment to treat your pet and ensure that carpets and bedding are cleared of all fleas and their eggs.
Ticks
Fleas are not the only critter that pet owners need to be aware of. Ticks also feed on animal and human blood and can carry diseases. Ticks are more common in wooded areas and in tall grasses, so if your pet spends time in these types of habitat, check their fur regularly for ticks.
Worms
There are a number of different worms which can affect dogs and cats including roundworms, hookworms, whipworms and tapeworms. These intestinal parasites can cause a variety of symptoms which are uncomfortable for your pet. The worms can be passed on to humans too and depending on the type of worm, you may notice symptoms ranging from a sore throat and cough to stomach pains or nausea. If you suspect you have picked up a worm from your pet, it’s important to ask your doctor for advice.
Mites
If your dog or cat has mites, it can lead to scabies – a highly contagious skin condition that is caused by the mites burrowing under the skin. Scabies can be passed not only from animal to human but also from human to human and it can take several weeks for symptoms to appear after contact with an infected person or animal. It’s important to speak to your doctor if you suspect you have scabies. If left untreated it can lead to more serious skin conditions. Treatment for scabies is usually straightforward and creams are available that kill the scabies mite.
The best way to avoid parasitic infestations is to take preventative action. Your vet can advise about treatments that will help prevent your pet from picking up fleas, mites, ticks and worms before they have the chance to become a problem.
Keeping a pet brings a lot of fun and enjoyment to families and although unpleasant, parasites can be managed, meaning that you can continue to share your home with your pet. By ensuring that your pet and your home are clean, and by keeping up-to-date with preventative medication you’ll help to keep the critters at bay.
For further advice, visit the Companion Animal Parasite Council’s website at: www.capcvet.org
