EN 
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FR Fleas Don't Hibernate!
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By
Dr. med. vet. Sabina Büttner - Oct 15, 2019
We all know: In spring and summer, there's a significant risk of flea infestation for our beloved four-legged friends. What's less known is that fleas are often found on dogs and cats in autumn and winter too. According to a German study1, 6 - 14% of cats and 2 - 4% of dogs are infested with fleas during the winter months.
The reason for the year-round presence of fleas lies in the indoor living of our pets. The comfortably warm room temperatures are also appealing to fleas, as they find optimal conditions for reproduction there. Only adult fleas live on dogs and cats. However, flea eggs, larvae, and pupae are found in the animals' environment, especially in their sleeping and resting places, on carpets, and in cars.
The year-round occurrence of fleas means that preventive flea treatment must also be continued throughout the year.
Why prevent a flea infestation?
It is better to consistently protect your pet from a flea infestation throughout the year than to only start treatment when fleas are already visibly present. This is because fleas often reproduce unnoticed for a longer period, so the environment is usually already heavily infested when the first fleas are detected on the animal itself. Normal hygiene measures like vacuuming or washing blankets and cushions from resting places are then no longer sufficient to get rid of these pests in your home. Additionally, sprays or powders must be used to combat the flea offspring.
A flea infestation also has medical consequences: Flea bites can cause severe itching and skin lesions in dogs and cats. Fleas are carriers of other pathogens – especially tapeworms – and also readily infest humans if they are present in large numbers in the home.
How and how often to treat for fleas?
There are various products that can be applied directly to the animal as a solution, spray, or powder, and which have a repellent effect, meaning they are primarily effective as a prophylactic.
If your pet already has fleas, suitable flea treatments should be obtained from a veterinary practice. The sale of such products over the internet is prohibited in Switzerland.
The frequency of application varies depending on the product and the animal's risk of infestation. Generally, animals that have free outdoor access or regular contact with other animals or their resting places should be protected against flea infestation year-round. Consult your veterinarian for advice on this.
Further information: www.esccap.ch/parasiten/floehe
1 K. Boch (2008) Epidemiological studies on flea infestation in dogs and cats in the Leipzig area. Inaug. Diss. Veterinary Faculty University of Munich
Our veterinarian shows you how to apply a spot-on product correctly.
Useful information at a glance
Why is it important to protect my pet from fleas all year round?
Year-round protection against fleas is important because fleas can reproduce even in the colder months in the warm environment of our homes. Early protection prevents fleas from spreading unnoticed and heavily infesting the environment, which would require more extensive control.
How can I detect a flea infestation in my pet?
A flea infestation can be recognized by frequent scratching, skin lesions, or the visible presence of fleas on the animal. However, it is important to take preventive measures, as fleas often go unnoticed until the infestation is already far advanced.
Which products are suitable for flea control and how often should they be applied?
There are various products such as solutions, sprays, or powders that can be applied directly to the animal. These have a preventive effect and should be applied regularly depending on the animal's risk of infection. Animals with free outdoor access or regular contact with other animals should be protected year-round. Consult your veterinarian for advice.
What can I do if my pet is already infested with fleas?
If your pet already has fleas, you should obtain suitable flea treatments from your veterinarian. In addition to the treatments for the animal itself, the environment and resting places should also be thoroughly cleaned and treated to combat flea breeding.
Can fleas also infest humans and what are the health risks?
Yes, fleas can also infest humans, especially if they are present in large numbers in the home. Flea bites can cause severe itching and skin irritations. Furthermore, fleas are carriers of pathogens such as tapeworms, which brings additional health risks.
