MYTHS AND FACTS ABOUT FLEAS A false statement, when told repeatedly for several years, is accepted as truth amongst people. This is what has happened with flea and tick myths. Most of the perceptions that people have about flea and tick infestations are misconceptions. And as a Pet health care company, it is our responsibility to break all the fallacies of the pet parents and provide them with reliable information about fleas and ticks.
Below is the list of misconceptions and the facts about them.
1. Myth- Winter means no fleas and ticks Fact Studies have proved that though chances are fewer fleas and ticks can infest your pets in winters. In winter they search for the warm places and curtains, beddings, and carpets can be the perfect option to pass the winter season comfortably. So, beware of the parasites and keep your pet under the monthly or three monthly flea and tick treatment program. There is also a chance of flea and tick infestations, if your pet gets, in contact with squirrels, birds, or other wildlife 2. Myth- I live in a city, fleas, and ticks don’t come here. Fact In this case, just ask your vet, he will tell you that fleas like to live under carpets and other damp places. There are chances that your house can be a shelter for these parasites. And ticks although, don’t live on/in household things, they can definitely attach themselves on your pet from a long grass when your pet gets in contact while playing or walking 3. Myth- Clean house is a Parasite free house Fact Fleas and ticks can still enter your house by getting attached on your or your pet’s body when you go out. That’s why it is always advised to keep your house and pet treated with a flea and tick treatment. Don’t forget your backyard.
4. Myth- One or two fleas or ticks won’t harm my pet Fact Absolutely incorrect, fleas and ticks are those parasites that reproduce at a very fast rate. A single flea or tick can lay hundreds and thousands of eggs in one go. Hence, you won't even know when those one or two fleas or ticks will bring a tsunami of parasitic infestations on your pet.
5. Myth- Fleas and ticks once treated don’t re-emerge Fact Re-emergence of fleas and ticks is a phenomenon that is very common amongst pet parents and there are numerous emails and messages that come to us that say,” I thought these creeps were gone but they are back again, what should I do?”
Well, it is called re-emergence, even if your pet and your house becomes parasite free but there is still a chance of a parasitic infestation because you and your pet still go out. So, it very easy for these parasites to just take a ride back home. Therefore, it is always advocated by the vets to continue the flea and tick treatments throughout the year. 6. Myth- Flea and tick treatment made from chemicals are harmful Fact Most of the flea and tick treatments that are made by the reputed manufacturers go through rigorous tests, and these treatments have to clear each test successfully to get approval from the Government. You just have to follow the instructions written on the product label and proceed accordingly. Your pet will be safe and happy. Frontline Plus and Bravecto are the best examples of such safe treatments. 7. Myth- Humans are safe from flea and tick bites Fact Well, just Google “tick-borne diseases in humans” and you will come to know that they do bite. Fleas and ticks need a host with warm blood which you are. So, don’t be under that impression and keep your surroundings and pets flea and tick free. Lastly, consult your vet before you believe any theory you read or hear. This will help you to become an aware and informed pet parent which will eventually enable you to give your pet a better life.