Spring is such a wonderful time of the year.
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Warmer weather and longer days are allowing us to spend more time with our pets outdoors.
Along with the warmer weather comes some of those things that make our pets itch too.
So what can you do about that?
Well, that depends.
What is making your pet itch?
There are many causes, fleas, mites, environmental factors and even some foods can cause an itch or allergy.
Help is available once we know what is creating the scratch.
Fleas are the most common complaint when it comes to itchy pets.
The truth is though, your pet will only scratch at fleas if they are in fact, allergic to the flea.
Flea allergy is a common problem with dogs and cats.
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It will take just one, single flea to bite an animal that is allergic, to drive the pet insane with itchiness.
Ensuring that your pet is on good, quality flea prevention all year round will prevent this problem.
Fleas can hatch at any time of the year - they are not just a warm weather problem.
Mosquitoes are another annoying insect that can cause not only allergic reactions in our pets but also can carry the deadly heartworm that can affect our pets.
Protection for heartworm is available as an annual prevention injection at your vet or in certain monthly treatments.
As for keeping the mozzies at bay, there are pet friendly repellents that you can use but the best way to protect them is to limit their exposure by keeping them indoors where possible.
As beautiful as the plants are that are flowering at the moment, these too can cause our pets to scratch and sneeze.
Pollens in the air can affect animals just like us.
Yes, pets get hay fever too.
Itchy eyes, scratchy skin - for some, spring is no fun.
The more common problem plants in our area are grasses like kikuyu or couch and other plants such as sorrel and wandering jew.
There are plenty of treatments available to help ease the itch. Topical treatments, oral medications, monthly injections or even desensitizing vaccinations may be required to help ease your pets suffering.
A visit to a veterinarian is important to help diagnose the cause of the itch and to develop the best course of treatment to help your pet ditch that itch.