Fleas, Ticks & Mites Problem in Pets

There’s nothing better than giving your pet time each day to romp around outside. Fresh air, sunshine, and exercise are the cure for just about any ailment your pet may face! While the great outdoors is a wonderful place, it also has its downside.

The more time your dog or cat spends outside, the greater risk there is of fleas, ticks, and mites. These little critters are often hard to detect—that is until you notice your pet constantly scratching or nipping.

If you have a sliding door pet door installed in your home or if your pet spends a lot of time outdoors, you’ll want to know the ins and outs of protecting against fleas, ticks, and mites. Here are tips and tricks to keep these bugs at bay.

Fleas 101

With more than 2,000 different species of fleas, it’s more likely than not that your pet will be exposed to these tiny critters. If your pet is bitten by a flea and is allergic, the bite could lead to excessive scratching and even hair loss.

Fleas can also spread tapeworm, and a pet that’s infested with fleas is at risk of suffering from flea bite anemia.

Thankfully, fleas are easily treatable and preventable. There are sprays, shampoos, and collars that can be used to keep fleas away from your pet. Keeping your grass trimmed also keeps fleas from flourishing.

If you notice fleas in your yard, mix two ounces of dish soap with water and then spray your grass once or twice a week to kill adult fleas.

Preventing Tick Bites

Ticks are harmful to humans and pets alike. Ticks can be hard to detect since they embed themselves into the skin. In the warmer months, be sure to check your pet for ticks. Pay close attention to areas that have little to no hair, including:

• Ears
• Between the toes
• Upper leg
• Inside skin folds

Ticks are often found in wooded areas and tall grasses. If you live or often hike in a wooded area, always check your pet for ticks upon coming indoors. Keeping your grass trimmed short and protecting your pet with a flea and tick product are useful to keep the population down.

Mites

Mites are most common in young cats and dogs, especially in and around their ears. Ear mites can irritate the ear canal. If your pet is scratching his ears or shaking his head often, he may have an ear mite infection.

You’ll also want to be aware of mange mites, which are highly contagious. These mites can cause skin rashes, hair loss, and skin infections.

There are many natural repellents you can use to keep mites away, including apple cider vinegar, green tea, and herbal oils.

Freedom Doesn’t Have to Be Unsafe

While fleas, ticks, mites, and other harmful creatures live in the great outdoors, don’t let this stop your pet from spending plenty of time outside. With a pet door, you can give your pet the freedom to go outside even when you aren’t home. A patio pet door ensures your pet is healthy, happy, and well-exercised!

If you’re looking to upgrade your existing pet door, we’ve got you covered. We offer sliding door pet doors as well as flaps and even electronic pet doors. No matter if you’re looking for a door for a small cat or an extra-large dog, we’re sure to have just the product you need. Contact our team today to learn more.