What is flea allergy dermatitis and what are its symptoms?
Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), often called flea bite hypersensitivity, is a skin disease caused by an allergic reaction to flea saliva. A single flea bite can trigger the diseases intense itching. Cats with FAD scratch their heads and necks. This often leads to hot spots, or localized hair loss and skin infections. You may find fleas and flea dirt (the flea feces look like black specks) on your pet, although many cats with FAD have very few fleas, since they are constantly licking and chewing. How is flea allergy dermatitis diagnosed? Your veterinarian looks for the usual signs (scratching, skin sores, the presence of fleas and/or flea dirt). He or she may also perform a skin test to confirm that fleas are causing the problem, as FAD symptoms can resemble those of other conditions, including external parasites (mites, lice), infections and other allergies, that cause severe itching. How is flea allergy dermatitis treated? The best way to treat FAD is to prevent fleas from attacking yo
