Our Troutdale Veterinarian Answers Frequently Asked Questions About Fleas and Ticks

At Paws & Claws Pet Medical Center, our veterinarian team is proud to serve the areas of Troutdale and Gresham, providing the hgihest level of care to a variety of pets including dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, birds, and more. One of the more common problems pet owners run into—especially for cats and dogs—is that of flea infestations and tick bites. Here in our office, we provide prevention and treatment for this all-too-common issue.

What Dangers Do Fleas and Ticks Pose in Troutdale and Gresham?

Fleas and ticks pose very different but serious problems, not only to your pet, but to others living in your home as well (humans and pets alike!). For instance, fleas can easily spread from an animal host (such as a dog or cat) to a human. And because they reproduce so quickly, even just a few fleas living on your pet can quickly turn into an infestation that takes over your entire house and is very difficult to get rid of.

Fleas also bite, which can cause skin irritation. Your Troutdale or Gresham pet may scratch or bite at the affected areas, resulting in raw, tender skin that may be prone to infection.

Ticks, on the other hand, don't tend to cause infestations, nor do they tend to transfer from one host to the next. Still, all it takes is one tick bite for your pet to become infected with Lyme Disease, which can be very dangerous and even life-threatening.

How Can I Prevent Fleas and Ticks?

The good news is that there are plenty of measures pet owners can take to protect their pets and homes against fleas and ticks. For starters, if your pets venture outdoors, make sure your yard is well landscaped. Fleas and ticks thrive in moist areas with lots of shrubbery and overgrown grass, so keeping your yard trimmed and taken care of can reduce the chances of them living in your lawn.

Furthermore, there are plenty of over-the-counter and prescription products that are extremely effective in preventing flea and tick problems. Frontline Gold, for example, is a popular over-the-counter brand available for dogs and cats. Prescription products like Trifexis, Comfortis, and NexGard are even more effective in protecting your pets and can be prescribed at our office.

What if My Pet Already Has Fleas or a Tick Bite?

If your pet is suffering from a flea problem or a tick bite, the best thing you can do is schedule an appointment with a veterinary professional. Here in our office, we can provide you with guidance for treating fleas and ticks, in addition to making sure your pet isn't suffering from complications related to the problem.

Request an Appointment With Our Troutdale Vet Today

Whether your pet is showing signs of fleas/ticks or you're simply interested in preventative medication, you can trust our Troutdale vet team at Paws & Claws Pet Medical Center to help. Request an appointment with us today by contacting our office at (503) 661-1833. We're open six days a week to work with your schedule!