How to Get Rid of Fleas When It's Not a Flea

Getting rid of fleas naturally is tough enough. It get's tougher when the flea isn't a flea. There are a variety of other parasites that can torment pet health and can easily be confused with a flea infestation.

Sarcoptic mites can pose as a terrible problem to pet health and can only really be solved under the close care of your veterinarian and with the administration of pet medication. These pests are also called scabies or red mange. Sarcoptic mites create intensely itchy skin, hair loss, and inflamed skin with multiple small scabs. Sarcoptic mite infestation, more than any other pest infestation, is frequently misdiagnosed as an allergies. This misdiagnosis is really unfortunate as it delaies proper treatment.

Cheyletiella mites are also called "Walking Dandruff" because upon close inspection of your pet's coat it seems like little flakes of dry skin are actually walking about. Thankfully, these mites are easy to treat. You can get rid of Cheyletiella mities easily by using any common flea shampoo. Generally no further pet medication will be required.

There are also Demodex mites which is also called mange. These annoying parasites live just under the surface of your dog's skin. They reside in the tiny hair follicles and oil glands of your dog's skin. Demodex mites can only be seen on a skin scraping viewed under the microscope. Demodex mites are most commonly seen in young dogs. An older dog with these mites might have a different and more serious health problem.

Remember whether it's getting rid of fleas or getting rid of another parasite: don't delay. Parasites multiply rapidly and greatly interfere with pet health.