Don't let autumn fleas bite: why your pet is still at risk as temperatures start to drop
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As temperatures fall and central heating returns, fleas can continue thriving indoors – leaving pets vulnerable to bites and infestations.
Think flea season is finished because summer is fading? Think again. Falling temperatures and the return of central heating could create the perfect conditions for fleas to keep causing trouble inside your home.
Mild September weather can allow fleas to survive outdoors, meaning pets can still pick them up during walks or time spent outside. Once inside, however, the real problem can begin.
A single flea can quickly turn into an infestation when conditions are right. Female fleas can lay dozens of eggs a day, with eggs dropping from pets into carpets, sofas, bedding and other soft furnishings.
Those eggs can then develop through several stages before emerging as adult fleas ready to bite your pet again.
And there’s a particularly unwelcome factor helping them along: central heating.
Warm indoor temperatures can provide exactly the environment fleas need to continue their life cycle, meaning an infestation can persist long after summer has disappeared.
If fleas have taken hold, treating your cat or dog alone may not be enough.
Owners should give carpets, floors and furniture a thorough vacuum, concentrating on the places their pets spend the most time. Pet bedding should also be washed according to its care instructions, using a hot cycle where appropriate.
A suitable household flea spray can help tackle fleas and immature stages in the home, but products should always be used exactly as instructed.
And don't make the potentially dangerous mistake of assuming the same flea treatment can be used on every pet. Cats and dogs can require different products and doses, depending on factors including species and size.
Frequent scratching is one of the most obvious clues, but it's not the only warning sign.
Pets with fleas may bite or lick themselves more often, appear restless or develop irritated skin. Tiny dark specks in their fur can also be a clue, while a fine-toothed flea comb can help owners investigate further.
If your pet develops significant skin irritation, hair loss or appears unwell, veterinary advice should be sought.
Itch says its flea treatments are tailored according to a pet's size and breed, provide 30 days of protection and are vet approved. The company also says its treatments protect against ticks and are available without a prescription.
Keeping preventative treatments up to date and maintaining good household hygiene can help stop the flea life cycle getting established.
For pet owners, the message is simple: autumn doesn't mean the end of flea season. Check your pet regularly, keep bedding clean and stay on top of preventative treatment before those unwanted visitors make themselves at home.