Flea and Tick Prevention

Types of Parasites Infesting Animals

There are two main types of parasites that infest animals: external parasites like fleas and ticks, which live on the surface of the body (skin, fur, ears, eyes, hair follicles), and internal parasites like nematodes and tapeworms, which live inside the body. These parasites not only harm the host’s health but are also known to transmit life-threatening diseases. To ensure a healthy life for your pets and family, regular prevention and deworming are essential.

External Parasites

Fleas prefer dark, warm, poorly ventilated areas and can be found in the corners of rooms, carpets, sofas, and beds indoors. Ticks hide in grassy or bushy areas and latch onto nearby humans or animals. Even indoor pets can bring these parasites inside through contact with humans or other animals. Fleas and ticks are most active from May to November, with young ticks beginning to hatch and become active in autumn and winter. Therefore, our clinic recommends year-round prevention.

Diseases in Dogs and Cats Caused by Flea and Tick Bites

Flea Bite Dermatitis
This skin inflammation is caused by flea bites. The irritation from flea bites and the inflammatory response to the substances in flea saliva cause severe itching at the bite site. The severity of symptoms is proportional to the number of fleas infesting the animal, and severe infestation can lead to anemia.

Flea Allergy Dermatitis
An allergic reaction to substances in flea saliva causes severe itching not only at the bite site but also in other areas. Hair loss and eczema are often concentrated on the back and hips. Even a single flea bite can cause severe dermatitis all over the body.

Canine Babesiosis
This disease, transmitted by ticks, is caused by the Babesia parasite, which destroys red blood cells, leading to anemia, fever, and loss of appetite. Severe cases can be fatal.

Feline Hemoplasmosis
This disease, transmitted by tick bites or cat fights, is caused by the Hemoplasma parasite, which destroys red blood cells, leading to anemia, fever, and loss of appetite.

Zoonotic Diseases Transmissible to Humans

Zoonotic diseases are diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans, and prevention is crucial to protect both. Some key zoonotic diseases include:

Cat Scratch Disease
Caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae, this disease is transmitted by fleas and occurs when an infected cat scratches or bites a person. It can cause the scratched area to become infected, and symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, fever, and headaches. About 9-15% of cats in Japan carry this bacterium, with higher prevalence in stray or outdoor cats. Preventive measures include hand washing after contact with cats, regular flea control, and keeping cats indoors. If infection is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.

Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS)
First reported in China in 2011, this zoonotic disease is caused by the SFTS virus and can be transmitted by ticks or through contact with the blood of infected animals. Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, and gastrointestinal issues, and the disease can be fatal, with a mortality rate of around 20%. Since it was first identified in Japan in 2013, there have been 60-90 reported cases annually. Prevention includes wearing long sleeves and pants during outdoor activities, using tick repellents, regularly applying flea and tick control medications to pets, and checking for ticks after outdoor activities. If symptoms appear, seek medical attention promptly.

Internal Parasites

Internal parasites are harmful organisms that live inside the body of animals, commonly found in the digestive tract, lungs, and heart. Infected animals might show no symptoms, but severe infestations can cause diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, anemia, and in severe cases, can be life-threatening. Common routes of infection include ingesting contaminated soil or raw meat and through external parasites like fleas. Puppies can also be infected through the placenta. Regular deworming, avoiding raw meat, promptly disposing of feces, and regular health check-ups are essential. Some internal parasites are zoonotic, so managing pets’ health also protects human health.

Symptoms of Internal Parasite Infections in Dogs and Cats

• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Weight loss
• Abdominal pain
• Anemia
• Swollen abdomen
• Stunted growth (in puppies and kittens)
• Visible worms in feces or around the anus

Types of Preventive Medications

There are two main types of preventive medications: chewable treats and topical treatments. The choice depends on the animal’s preferences, the range of parasites the medication can prevent, and should be discussed with the veterinarian.

Chewable Treats

Advantages: Easy to administer as a treat; pets can be bathed even after administration.
Disadvantages: Not suitable for pets that have difficulty taking oral medication; effectiveness relies on the parasite biting the pet; may not be suitable for pets with food allergies.

Topical Treatments

Advantages: Easy to apply to the skin; suitable for pets that refuse treats or pills.
Disadvantages: May cause skin irritation at the application site; effectiveness may decrease with bathing or exposure to rain.

Preventive Measures

Fleas and ticks are present year-round, so continuous preventive medication is recommended.

List of Preventive Medications Available at Our Clinic