In the UK, effective control of fleas, ticks and worms is a core part of preventative healthcare for your pets.
External Parasites;
Fleas, particularly Ctenocephalides felis (aka the cat flea), are the most common ectoparasites affecting your pet’s skin. They can cause a range of problems, including itchy skin (pruritus) and flea allergic dermatitis. Fleas can also transmit other parasites such as tapeworms.
Ticks, such as Ixodes ricinus, are another common skin parasite. Pets can pick these up while outdoors and not only are they irritating to your pet but they may also carry diseases such as Lyme disease. It is important to remove ticks promptly and ensure the head is fully removed. If you are unsure or concerned, please contact us, one of the nurses will be happy to assist you and your pet.
Internal Parasites;
There are many types of worms that can affect pets in the UK. The most common include:
· Roundworm (Toxocara canis)
· Tapeworm (Dipylidium caninum)
· Lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum)
Signs that your pet may have worms can include an increased appetite, a pot-bellied appearance, and sometimes visible worms in their faeces. Sometimes dogs will not have any clinical signs.
The reason we stress the importance of regularly worming our pets is because of the risk to human health. Roundworm can lead to blindness in children.
Another lesser-known group of parasites are protozoa, which cannot be seen with the naked eye. Common examples include Giardia and Toxoplasma gondii. These can also be transmitted to humans and cause health issues.
We always recommend protecting your pet from these parasites. Our vets can offer a range of antiparasitic treatments tailored to your pet’s needs. To help determine the most suitable products and treatment frequency, please follow the link below:
https://www.petparasiteprotection.co.uk
Rabbits and Guinea Pigs
Rabbits and guinea pigs can also be affected by ectoparasites such as fur mites, ear mites, mange mites, and lice. Rabbits may also be affected by certain roundworms. Signs of infestation can include excessive itching, hair loss, and changes in behaviour.
An important condition to be aware of in rabbits is flystrike. This occurs when flies lay eggs on the animal’s fur, which hatch into maggots and can quickly lead to life-threatening complications. If you notice any fly eggs or maggots on your rabbit or guinea pig, seek veterinary attention immediately.