What is flea allergy dermatis?
Fleas can cause a condition known as allergic dermatitis. Because some dogs and cats are allergic to flea saliva, a single flea- bite causes the animal to chew and scratch the area where the flea has bitten. This can cause redness, sores and hair loss. One or two fleas on an allergic animal may trigger the same response as a hundred flea- bites. Some pets need medication to control the scratching and chewing until a flea control program can be started. Animals with severe allergic dermatitis may require intermittent use of prescription medications coupled with flea prevention during those periods when fleas are most active during hot, humid months. Remember, use of these medications is not a substitute for a flea control program.