Fleas, ticks, mosquitoes e sand flies, are very dangerous for our dogs and cats as vectors of numerous diseases, and can be found almost all year round depending on the area and climate. The home environment facilitates the survival of fleas even during the winter, while ticks and mosquitoes, thanks to the mild winters and the high temperatures of early and late winter, can be found, albeit rarely, even during this season.
The arrival of the spring and the consequent rise in temperatures, increase its diffusion. Precisely for this reason we must pay even more attention in this period, without forgetting that prevention done throughout the year is the best weapon to avoid infestation problems.
THE FLEAS
Le fleas they are small wingless and very fast insects, which feed on the blood of mammals and birds. They act by insinuating themselves into the fur of dogs and cats and can cause more or less serious problems such as allergies, dermatitis, endoparasitosis and blood diseases.
THE TICKS
Le ticks, belonging to the family of mites, they feed, like fleas, on the blood of their hosts and can carry pathogens such as viruses and bacteria, in turn responsible for diseases that are dangerous for animals and also for humans.
THE PAPPATACI
I sand flies (or sand flies) are insects similar to small mosquitoes, but quieter. Their sting can carry Leishmaniasis, a very insidious disease for our four-legged friends, characterized by dermatitis, hair loss, weight loss, as well as much more serious damage to various organs.
MOSQUITOS
Le mosquitoes, well known flying insects, can cause allergic reactions from sting and vehicular, depending on the area, filariasis, a parasitic disease quite widespread among dogs, cats and wildlife which often represents their reservoir.
PREVENTION AS THE ONLY DEFENSE
Let us remember that an animal in good health, with a correct and balanced diet and living in a condition of well-being and hygiene, develops an immune system capable of reacting more effectively to any pathologies caused by parasites, viruses and bacteria. A periodic visit to the vet can help us prevent problems which, if not promptly addressed, can even worsen very quickly.
When it comes to fleas, ticks and flying insects, it is also good practice to take action preventively, carrying out pesticide treatments during the whole year, increasing attention as spring approaches and even more so during the summer.
PESTICIDE PRODUCTS
There are different types of pesticide products, from collars, to spot ons and sprays, as well as tablets that can only be prescribed by the veterinarian.
SPOT ON
- spot-on they are vials that contain different old and new generation active ingredients. They are mainly applied between the shoulder blades, above the tail, under the armpits, near the nape of the neck of dogs and cats. The treatment is carried out after 15/30 days depending on the product.
SPRAY
The spray or lotion they are usually applied by spraying it directly on the animal or on a cloth or on the hand and then massaging it on the animal's skin. In some cases it can also be used to protect environments as it creates a barrier against parasites, reducing their reproduction.
COLLARS
They contain slow-release active ingredients, which can be released continuously or only in contact with something hot (therefore with the animal). Their duration varies from one month up to 8 months depending on the brand and type of product.
TABLETS / TABLETS
They are pesticides of recent invention, for the use of which a veterinary medical prescription is obviously required. There are numerous products on the market in this form, and can be useful when it is difficult to get close to the animal (eg wild cats), or in case of skin problems.
PREVENTION ALSO AT HOME
For adequate protection it is very important to act on the animal, but also on the environment in which it lives.
Some simple rules to follow to protect the home can be:
- periodic use of the vacuum cleaner, even in the kennel, in the corners and under the furniture
- often wash cushions, blankets, toys and accessories used by dogs and cats
- when returning from the walk, check the skin and coat and brush it carefully
- if we have an outdoor area, keep it clean by frequently cutting the grass
And let's not forget about keep ours clean too driving feel if we use it to transport our animal friends.
NATURAL? YES YOU CAN!
Fleas and ticks represent a dangerous pitfall for our animals, but the use of chemicals is no exception. It is very important to protect cats and dogs throughout the year, doing it naturally makes the difference!
To apply natural products for the protection of our dogs and cats, it allows you to pamper them immediately without any problems, reducing any risks both for them and for us. Compared to chemical synthesis products, the naturals can be used on puppies and elderly animals, during lactation, but also in the course of skin problems or various diseases with kidney or liver damage.
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