Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) in Dogs and Cats: What You Need to Know

Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) in Dogs and Cats: What You Need to Know

Fleas are more than just a nuisance—they can cause serious discomfort and health problems for your pet. Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is an allergic reaction to flea bites that can lead to intense itching, skin infections, and hair loss. At Paws & Co Veterinary Centre, we help pet owners protect their dogs and cats from fleas and manage FAD effectively.

What Are Fleas?

Fleas are tiny, wingless parasites that feed on your pet’s blood. Even a single flea bite can trigger a reaction in sensitive pets, causing FAD. Fleas are resilient and can live in carpets, bedding, and upholstery, making prevention and control essential.

What is Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD)?

FAD occurs when a pet’s immune system reacts to proteins in flea saliva. Dogs and cats with FAD can experience severe itching, redness, and inflammation even with minimal flea exposure. Secondary bacterial or yeast infections can develop if scratching and biting continue.

Signs and Symptoms of Fleas and FAD

Look out for:

  • Intense scratching or biting at the skin

  • Red, inflamed, or scabby areas, especially around the tail, neck, and belly

  • Hair loss

  • Small black “flea dirt” specks on the coat

  • Restlessness or irritability

Pets with FAD may scratch so much that they develop open sores or secondary infections, which require veterinary care.

How Our Clinic Can Help

We provide comprehensive flea prevention and treatment plans tailored to your pet’s needs:

  1. Effective Flea Treatments – Topical spot-ons, oral medications, and collars that kill fleas quickly and prevent infestations.

  2. FAD Management – Treatment for affected pets may include anti-inflammatory medications, medicated shampoos, and antibiotics for secondary infections.

  3. Environmental Control Advice – Guidance on cleaning bedding, carpets, and furniture to eliminate flea eggs and larvae.

  4. Routine Check-Ups – Regular examinations help catch early signs of flea infestation or FAD before severe problems develop.

Preventing Fleas and FAD

  • Use regular flea preventatives recommended by your vet.

  • Clean your home environment: vacuum floors, wash pet bedding, and treat carpets if necessary.

  • Monitor pets closely for itching, scratching, or hair loss.

  • Treat all pets in the household simultaneously, as fleas can jump between animals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can fleas affect humans?
A: Fleas can bite humans, causing itching and irritation, but they don’t live on humans long-term.

Q: How long can fleas survive in my home?
A: Fleas can survive for weeks to months in carpets, bedding, and upholstery without a host.

Q: Can a pet have FAD without visible fleas?
A: Yes, even a single flea bite can trigger FAD. Pets may show symptoms even if you don’t see fleas.

Q: Are flea preventatives safe for puppies and kittens?
A: Yes, your vet can recommend age-appropriate flea preventatives for young pets.

Protect Your Pet Today

Fleas and Flea Allergy Dermatitis cause significant discomfort, but prevention and early treatment can keep your pet happy and healthy. Contact our clinic to:

  • Start a flea prevention plan

  • Treat existing flea infestations or FAD

  • Get advice on protecting your home environment

Don’t wait for the itching to worsen—let us help your pet live flea-free!

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