Flea Prevention and Treatment

Words by Norbrook Laboratories Ltd and Tiffany Menzies

Fleas occur commonly in many environments and can cause irritating infestations for your pet – which may lead to skin disease or result in spreading disease also.

Treating a Flea Outbreak 

Once you see evidence of fleas on your pet it is important to recognise that their home environment will have also become contaminated. Why? Fleas are prolific reproducers, releasing dozens of eggs daily which fall off your pet wherever they go - into all those nooks and crannies in bedding, furniture, floors - basically everywhere. Therefore, optimally managing fleas requires a two-pronged approach, treating both your pet and proactively managing their home environment. Using a fast-acting flea product like Moxiclear, which works by direct contact on the flea’s cuticle rather than the flea first having to bite your pet for a blood meal, is effective as it helps both limit further irritation for your pet and environmental flea egg contamination - because dead fleas do not lay eggs.

Breaking the Environmental Life Cycle

• Identify your pet’s favorite hangout spots: Focus on treating these areas where your pet loves spending time. 
• Regular vacuuming: Daily - if possible, which not only removes eggs but helps stimulate adult fleas to hatch from cocoons and then get sucked up in the vacuum. Do not forget the car! 
• Regularly wash pet bedding: Use the hottest cycle, (more than 60°C, and at least 10 minutes). 
• Restrict access areas: Prevent pets from accessing dark and humid areas where larvae survive, such as under the house. 
• Treat all household pets: Remember the cats! 
• Avoid untreated animals: Do not invite untreated animals into your home. 

Breaking the Flea Cycle 

• Monthly treatments: Use Moxiclear on all household cats and dogs monthly to stop fleas breeding.
• Correct product use: Never use a dog flea preventative product on a cat or vice versa, as they may contain different chemicals or strengths which could cause toxicity.
• Year-round prevention: Follow a year-round flea environmental control and preventative treatment plan to prevent problems. 

Parasite Control Programs

When deciding which preventative treatment to use for your pet, other parasite diseases to consider apart from fleas include gastrointestinal worms, mites, and ticks. Parasites can also cause illness in your pet and may simply be managed by using a regular treatment that provides broader protection. Working closely with your animal health professional and following these guidelines will help ensure your pet remains healthy and free from fleas and other parasites. Regular check-ups and treatments are key to maintaining a safe and comfortable environment for your beloved companion.