Newsletter March-2025
WHAT IS IN THIS MONTH
Spring is here and with it comes the buzzing, biting, and crawling pests that never seem to take a break in California. While other states enjoy a winter freeze that slows parasites down, our Sacramento climate stays mild enough that fleas and ticks remain active year-round. This makes prevention especially important for our dogs and cats.
Signs of Infestation
Watch for:
- Constant scratching or chewing
- Tiny black specks (“flea dirt”) on fur or bedding
- Red or inflamed skin patches
- Lethargy, appetite loss, or fever (possible tick‑borne illness)
Prevention is Key
At Dry Creek Veterinary Hospital, we recommend:
- Year‑Round Preventives: Monthly flea & tick products are far more effective (and affordable) than treating infestations.
- Multiple Pet Protection: All pets in the household should be treated—even indoor cats.
- Yard Management: Keep grass trimmed and remove leaf litter where ticks thrive.
- Regular Checks: After hikes or outdoor play, run your hands over your pet to check for ticks.
Why Fleas & Ticks Are a Year-Round Threat
- Mild Winters: Without a hard frost, fleas and ticks continue breeding.
- Outdoor Adventures: Sacramento’s parks, hiking trails, and backyards are prime habitats.
- Indoor Survival: Flea eggs and larvae can live in carpets and furniture, reinfecting pets months later.
Beyond being a nuisance, fleas and ticks can transmit serious diseases:
- Fleas: Flea allergy dermatitis, tapeworms, and even Bartonella (“cat scratch fever”).
- Ticks: Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, and Anaplasmosis—all of which are increasingly reported in California.
Flea & Tick Products: What Works Best?
There are many options-oral tablets, topical treatments, and collars. We’ll help you choose the safest and most effective preventive for your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle. Remember: never use over-the-counter products without guidance, especially on cats, as some can be toxic. Don’t wait until you see fleas or ticks by then, your home may already be infested. Prevention is your pet’s best defense.
