Flea Allergy Dermatitis
Flea Allergy dermatitis or flea bite hypersensitivity is one of the most common dermatologic disease. Cats also develop FAD, which is one of the major causes of Feline Miliary Dermatitis. FAD is most prevalent in the summer, although in warm climates flea infestations may persist throughout the year. Temperature extremes and low humidity tend to inhibit flea development.
FAD is a common cause of itching in dogs. Adult fleas must bite a dog and obtain a blood meal in order to reproduce. Fleas typically do not remain on the dog except for the minutes to hours when they are feeding. This is why dog owners often do not see live fleas on their dog unless there is a severe flea infestation in their immediate environment.
When fleas feed, they inject a small amount of saliva into the skin. It is the antigens or proteins in the saliva that cause an intensely itchy response to sensitive dogs.
A single fleabite can cause itching for days. Dogs with FAD do not have to be infested with fleas to be itchy. In fact, a single fleabite can cause itching for several days.
Clinical signs often give the first clue that your pet may suffer from FAD. Itching and hair loss in the region from the middle of the back to the tail base and down the rear legs is often associated with FAD.
Since the injection of flea saliva causes the allergic response, it is important to prevent fleas from biting your dog. Strict flea control is essential. Even though you have not seen fleas on the dog, it is important to continue rigorous flea treatment and maintain environmental control.
Most flea infestations occur in the warmer weather, but can occur year round. Monthly oral and topical flea preventives are essential to prevent flea infestations. For a dog with FAD, flea prevention is the best form of treatment.
We can recommend the safest and most effective treatment plan for your pet's individual needs. Prevention is essential and relatively simple and inexpensive. Ask one of our lovely girls for the best flea preventive for your pet’s lifestyle and requirements.