Fleas can transmit diseases and tapeworms, so it is important for the health of the pet to keep it free of fleas.

 

The best method against fleas is prevention. Fleas thrive particularly well when it is nice and warm, so dogs and cats should be checked for fleas just as regularly as your home.

Vacuum the home frequently and thoroughly, especially in corners and cracks. After vacuuming, dispose of the hoover bags, as fleas that have been sucked up can easily jump out again. Other animals with which the pet comes into contact should also be thoroughly scrutinised and avoided if flea infestation is suspected.

If the animal already has fleas, you can comb them out with a fine-toothed flea comb and throw the fleas into soapy water so that they die.

Wash the animal's sleeping area once a week with soapy water, and wash blankets and pillows in the washing machine, as these are the fleas' nesting places.

Avoid tall grass and keep your garden short so that there is plenty of sunlight between the blades, as fleas do not survive dry and hot places. Garden waste should not be stored near the house.

The pet should be bathed once a week, preferably with a special anti-flea shampoo. If it is not possible to bathe cats, for example, spray the animal regularly with a flea spray.

Observe the pet for signs of flea infestation, such as frequent scratching, especially on the back and tail, sore paws or black spots between the fur.

You can discuss further measures against flea infestation with your vet. There are tablets and lotions that repel fleas. Flea collars and flea powder are also very effective, although cats in particular occasionally have an allergic reaction to flea collars.