How Fleas and Ticks Can Affect Your Pet

Fleas and ticks might be small insects, but can impact your pet's health and well-being. These pesky parasites go beyond mere annoyance to cause serious health issues for cats and dogs. Kindred Care Pet Hospital in Richmond, TX, certainly has the right seasons and environmental settings for fleas and ticks, so our veterinarian team sees several problems caused by both.

Skin Irritations and Allergic Reactions

Skin irritations and allergic reactions are common in pets and can cause discomfort and distress. Identifying the cause and providing appropriate treatment is essential. The problem might be fleas or even ticks. Both of these parasites feast on blood and tear into the skin. That tear and leftover saliva create an itching sensation.

Anemia and Weakness

In a severe flea infestation, or when an older cat or small dog gets fleas, the parasites can take so much blood to cause anemia. Anemia is caused by a reduced red blood cell count, resulting in a lethargic and weak pet. Anemia can be fatal for young, old, and pets with serious underlying health conditions.

Parasite and Disease Transmission

Ticks are notorious for spreading diseases that impact both humans and pets. Such conditions include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis.

Fleas, meanwhile, spread tapeworms and other types of intestinal parasites. These parasites are transmitted as larvae that grow in your pet's gastrointestinal system, leading to weight loss and abdominal pain.

Psychological Distress

For many pets, the discomfort of fleas and ticks can cause behavioral issues, resulting in increasing frustration with the itchiness and potential fatigue due to anemia. This distress can cause restlessness, among other behavioral changes.

Get Pet Pest Relief with Our Kindred Care Pet Hospital

We know you don't like to see your pet suffer! Get preventative medication today that stops fleas and ticks in their tracks. If you have a pet undergoing severe reactions from fleas and ticks, Kindred Care Pet Hospital in Richmond, TX, can help. Call us at (281) 265-0009 to schedule a visit with your pet!