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After a grueling winter, your pets are probably aching to spend long days running and lounging under the warm sun. Unfortunately, the warmer spring and summer months also come with an uptick in flea infestations. To keep your animals itch-free and healthy, there are some steps you can take along with being consistent with their flea medicine.

Beyond Flea Medicine: Preventing Infestations at Home

1. Keep Other Animals Out

Although you might give your cat or dog flea medicine as recommended by a veterinarian, an invasion of fleas in your yard can make it harder for the pill or cream to do its job. One of the biggest gain access to properties is on the backs of other animals, such as opossums, coyotes, and raccoons. Even stray cats and dogs can be a problem in some areas.

To make your home less attractive to wildlife, remove any outside food sources and ensure all garbage bins are secured. If you have a garden, some common home remedies include placing pungent odors like garlic, chili powder, or vinegar around the area. Another approach is to purchase a liquid or granular-based repellent, products that emit an obnoxious smell and taste, and apply it around the property.

2. Maintain a Tidy Lawn

Fleas love tall grass and other heavily shaded areas that protect them from the sun and offer some humidity. To remove these spots from your property, regularly mow the grass and keep any surrounding trees and shrubs trimmed. Also, whenever leaves or other debris start to accumulate in the yard, sweep or rake these areas.

3. Clean the Inside of Your Home Regularly

flea medicineEven though your pets are taking a flea medicine, they can still track live fleas into your home. Once inside, they can lay eggs in the carpet and the furniture. To prevent these immature fleas from developing and overtaking your home, causing problems for both you and your animals, be diligent about vacuuming several days a week. This should include drapes and furniture pieces as well as the floor. Also, make sure to wash all bedding in the home, especially your pet’s, once a week.

 

Treating your pet’s environment as well as giving them a flea medicine is the most fool-proof way to keep pests away. To learn about more ways to care for your cat or dog, contact the experts at Texas County Veterinary Clinic in Houston, MO. This full-service animal hospital provides a safe and secure environment for all of their patients. Call them today at (417) 967-3857 to schedule a checkup for your little guy and visit their website to learn more about their care services.

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