How Dangerous Are Fleas and Ticks to Your Pets in St. Louis?
Fleas and ticks can pose threats to household pets. These pests can leave your pets constantly itching and scratching. Also, they can pose serious health risks to your pets. The warm and humid weather can prolong flea and tick season in St. Louis, so it is essential to keep your pets protected. That is why homeowners must be aware of the dangers these pests carry. This allows them to act promptly and keep their furry companions safe. Also, homeowners must have an exterminator in St. Louis to rely on whenever they have pest issues. Here’s why fleas and ticks can be dangerous to your pets.
Fleas Carry Diseases
Fleas feed on blood. They are hard to control once they infest your home as they move quickly and jump far. Flea bites can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Some pets develop flea allergy dermatitis, which leads to itchy and inflamed skin. In severe cases, this can result in hair loss and open sores.
Fleas also carry diseases. Tapeworm is a major concern. Pets can get them by swallowing fleas during grooming. A heavy flea infestation can also cause anemia in small or young pets due to blood loss.
Ticks Can Transmit Pathogens
These pests attach themselves to your pet’s skin and feed on their blood for several days. While doing so, they can transmit bacteria and viruses. In the St. Louis area, ticks carry Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. These diseases can cause fever, fatigue, swollen joints, and loss of appetite. In some cases, the damage may become long-term, affecting your pet’s organs and immune system. Without treatment, some tick-borne illnesses can be fatal.
Why Fleas and Ticks Thrive in St. Louis
St. Louis has wooded areas, parks, and changing seasons that make it a perfect place for these blood-sucking creatures to thrive. Spring through early fall is peak season, but mild winters can allow these pests to survive year-round. Fleas and ticks hide in tall grass and shaded areas, waiting for a warm-blooded animal to pass by. Also, they can hitch a ride on your shoes, clothes, or other animals and infest your home. Sadly, they can quickly multiply once inside.
Protecting Your Pets
The best way to protect your pets is to prevent fleas and ticks from becoming a problem. Here are the steps to start with:
- Use vet-recommended flea and tick preventatives regularly.
- Keep your yard trimmed and free of brush, leaves, and tall grass.
- Vacuum your home often, especially where your pets sleep.
- Wash pet bedding in hot water.
- Check your pets daily, especially after walks or outdoor play.
You can also use flea combs and tick removers to clean your pet more easily.
When flea and tick problems get out of control, home remedies may not be enough. So, you may need to call the experts. Pointe Pest Control offers safe and effective pest control solutions for homeowners. They understand how quickly fleas and ticks can spread. Also, they use targeted treatments to eliminate pests at every stage of their life cycle. With local experience and a commitment to protecting pets and families, Pointe Pest Control can be a valuable resource for anyone facing a flea or tick problem.
Why It’s Not Just About Your Pet
Fleas and ticks can also bite people. Some of the diseases they carry can also infect humans. That’s why managing pests around your home is important. By keeping your pets protected, you also protect your entire household from the risks that come with flea and tick infestations.
