Few things make pets itch more than unwanted parasites. From the nearly invisible mite to the hard-shelled tick, these skin invaders can cause serious discomfort and more than a few health risks for cats and dogs. Burien Veterinary Hospital explains how important it is to catch these pests early and treat them quickly to protect your pet’s health.
Not all parasites are created equal, but they all share one thing in common: they make your pet’s life uncomfortable. Cats and dogs can pick up parasites like:
One of the biggest challenges with parasite problems is that they often go unnoticed until the infestation is advanced. Persistent scratching, licking, or chewing is one of the earliest red flags. Some pets may develop hair loss, bald patches, or red, inflamed skin. In the case of ear mites, frequent head shaking or ear scratching is common, sometimes accompanied by a dark, crumbly discharge. Heavy infestations can even cause lethargy or loss of appetite.
When you bring your pet to a vet for suspected parasites like fleas, they will begin with a thorough skin and coat examination. Depending on the symptoms, the veterinarian may perform diagnostics like skin scrapings to check for mites or fungal infections, use a flea comb to identify flea activity, or take ear swabs to look for ear mites under the microscope. If there’s concern about tick-borne illness, the vet may also recommend blood testing.
Treatment wholly depends on the pet parasite being dealt with. Prescription topical or oral preventives can eliminate fleas, ticks, and mites quickly and safely. Medicated baths or dips may be used in certain cases, and anti-itch or anti-inflammatory medications can soothe irritated skin. If a secondary skin infection is present, antibiotics may be needed, and ear mite infestations are treated with thorough cleaning and targeted medications.
Parasites don’t take time off, and neither should prevention. Year-round flea and tick control is strongly recommended for all cats and dogs, even during cooler months. Routine grooming (even if that is just a bath or brush at home) is an excellent way to catch signs of parasites, as is inspecting your pet after outdoor play, especially if they’ve been in tall grass, wooded areas, or around other animals. Keep your pet’s bedding clean and vacuum your home frequently in order to break the life cycle of many pests before they become a major problem.
Parasites can threaten your pet’s health if not addressed right away. With the right prevention plan, your pet can stay itch-free and protected all year long. Burien Veterinary Hospital has diagnostics and parasite prevention for pets in Burien and from neighboring communities like White Center and Tukwila. Think your pet might have fleas, mites, or other parasites? Contact us to schedule an appointment.
