Fleas are more than just an itchy annoynance. Fleas can cause allergic reactions in cats and dogs that can cause serious skin issues. Fleas can carry tapeworms and if your pet or a family member is infested it can lead to serious intestinal parasite issues. In very young animals fleas can lead to severe anemia and even death. It is important to control fleas for the comfort and safety of you, your pet and your family.

To learn more about intestinal parasites and their control visit our library article What's the Scoop on the Poop? To learn more about specific intestinal parasites visit our library article Intestinal Parasites.

No Pets In Your Home Currently Have Fleas

1. Growth inhibitors are a non-insecticidal way to prevent an infestation but do not kill adult fleas.
   • Program
   • Sentinel
2. Topical insecticides kill adult fleas for an extended period (1 month) and prevent an infestation.
• Frontline (for dogs and cats)
• Advantix (for dogs)
• Vectra 3D (for dogs)
3. Flea collars, sprays, dips and shampoos DO NOT PREVENT FLEAS.

One or More Pets Currently Has Fleas

1. Asymptomatic: Pets are not bothered by the fleas.
• Can be treated the same as you would in Prevention listed above.
• Usually the infestation involves a small number of fleas.
2. Symptomatic: Pets are scratching due to fleas.
• Long lasting topical insecticides provide up to one month of adult flea kill and include a growth inhibitor.
• Capstar is an oral tablet that kills fleas only on the day it is given and may combined with a growth inhibitor.
• Flea collars, sprays, dips, & shampoos are more toxic and less effective then other means.