What pests can effect my dogs and cats in summer.

Summer is on the way which means you and your pets are sure to be out and about enjoying the beautiful surroundings. However, this season also brings with it those pests that pester both cats and dogs and you for that matter since you have to deal with them too. What are these pesky pests that pester you every year? Here are four of the most common problems that your canine and feline friends are sure to have.

• Fleas – As much as you would like to avoid fleas, your pet will most likely get them. Fleas are everywhere and they have this nasty ability to multiply fast. Even a single flea on your pet can triple in numbers in just 21 days. Fleas are known to cause itching, hair loss, scratching and scabs. There are a number of preventatives on the market check with your vet as to which would best suit your pet.

        This is a warning to all Cat owners, Some Dog flea treatments contain insecticide permethrin which is highly toxic to cats .So don't treat your cat with spot on dog Flea Treatment without reading the ingredients or warnings on the box. It is so toxic to cats that cats can become seriously ill even if they come into contact with treated dogs, through shared bedding and grooming tools. Toxic effects include drooling, behaviour changes, tremors and possible death. So if you think your cat may have been poisoned seek veterinary care immediately.

• Ticks – Ticks can be found outdoors and they are patient enough to wait for any warm bloodied creature to pass by. If you are planning on going out with your pet, make sure that you check whether there are any ticks that came home with you. The poison from the Tick is life threatening and immediate treatment by your Veterinarian is required if a Tick has been discovered, in some pets with long coats, it is hard to see the tick as they are very small, some symptoms to watch out for. If their meow or bark has become more shallow, the loss of movement or wobbly in the back legs, vomiting, a moist cough or breathing problems. If at any time you suspect a Tick, do not wait go straight to a vet for assistance, and even if you remove the Tick the toxins can still slowly effect your pet. There is a number of Tick preventatives on the market, so prevention is a good start, but no preventative is 100%, always check with your Vet which product would be best suited for your pet, and after any bush walking watch for any changes in your pets behaviour.
• Sarcoptes Scabiei Mite – Mites are known to cause scabies or mange especially during the summer months. They are not usually considered dangerous but they are a nuisance.  Scabs are open wounds on your pet’s skin and this can invite other bacteria to invade its body. If you notice that scabies or mange is starting to form, treat it immediately using the same medication as that of tick and fleas.
• Mosquitoes – Many think that mosquitoes are out to get humans alone but the thing is they can bite anyone they want to. Aside from causing bumps that are itchy, your pets can suffer from other diseases as well. There is the heartworm which is a type of round worm that is known to cause death in dogs and cats unless it is treated immediately. You can prevent heartworm with a yearly vaccine or monthly tables best to ask your vet about the best solution for your pet.

These are just a few examples of summertime pests that dogs and cats can be exposed to. Knowing what to expect and how best to treat them is a good way to keep your pets safe and sound while enjoying the summer season.