Is your dog itching at the spot above its tail? Is your cat scratching around its neck? Even if you do not see fleas, if you find flea dirt, the pin-prick-sized residue of these pests, your pet has a problem. Do not take fleas lightly. Beyond their itchy bites, flea infestations can lead to skin infections, spread diseases, and even suck enough blood to cause a life-threatening anemia. Pets can catch tapeworms as they groom themselves and eat the fleas. The scariest aspect of the flea however, is its ability to survive and reproduce.

After mating, a female flea can lay up to 45 eggs a day, which hatch in 4 to 10 days. A flea can live up to 18 months, potentially producing 16000 offspring. If all of these fleas were to reproduce, the succeeding generation could total over 130 million (the next generation would be 9 million billion, or 2 million fleas for every person on earth). It is easy to see why a flea infestation can be such a difficult problem to eliminate.

Fortunately, recent advancements hold the key to solving this problem. Flea control medications like Advantage, and Program have virtually eliminated this aggravation. Which medication is best for your pet depends on your individual situation. The amount of time they spend outdoors, the amount they swim or are bathed, and other parasite problems will contribute to the decision.

Revolution is a topical spot-on that is used once per month. Revolution kills fleas that come in contact with your pet, so it is a very good product for animals with flea allergies in which one bite can cause great discomfort.

In California's warm climate, it is recommended that you use flea products for all 12 months of the year. Although the cost may seem expensive initially, it is much less than the combined cost of repeated sprays, bombs, baths and dips. You may obtain these medications through Mobile Vet. It is recommended that you talk to your veterinarian before using any new medication with your pet because, as with people, all drugs are not suitable for all pets. Inappropriate use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs have caused problems.

Fleas are not the only cause of itching. Allergies (to food, pollens, or bedding,) skin infections (by bacteria or fungi), parasites, and other metabolic problems can all cause dogs and cats to itch without fleas. If you have doubts about the cause of your pet's scratching, it is best to have your pet checked by one of our veterinarians.