Signs Your Pet Has Fleas or Ticks 

Fleas and ticks aren’t just annoying; they can pose serious health risks to your pet. From skin irritation to disease transmission, these tiny parasites can cause big problems if left untreated. The good news? Early detection makes all the difference.

Here’s how to tell if your pet may have fleas or ticks and what to do next.

Common Signs of Fleas

Fleas are small, fast-moving insects that live on your pet’s skin and feed on their blood. Because they reproduce quickly, a small issue can turn into an infestation fast.

Excessive Scratching or Biting

If your pet is constantly scratching, chewing, or biting at their skin, especially around the base of the tail, belly, or inner thighs, fleas could be the culprit.

Red, Irritated Skin

Flea bites can cause redness, inflammation, or small raised bumps. Some pets develop flea allergy dermatitis, which leads to intense itching and skin infections.

Hair Loss or Bald Spots

Repeated scratching and biting may cause thinning fur or bald patches, particularly along the back and hindquarters.

Flea Dirt

Flea dirt looks like tiny black or dark brown specks (similar to ground pepper) in your pet’s fur. If you place these specks on a damp paper towel and they turn reddish-brown, it’s likely flea droppings (digested blood).

Restlessness

Pets with fleas may seem uncomfortable, agitated, or unable to relax.

Common Signs of Ticks

Ticks are larger than fleas and attach themselves to your pet’s skin to feed. They’re often picked up outdoors in grassy or wooded areas.

Visible Bumps on the Skin

Ticks can feel like small bumps or skin tags when you run your hands over your pet’s body. Check carefully around the ears, neck, between toes, and under the collar.

Head Shaking or Ear Irritation

Ticks frequently attach near the ears. Persistent head shaking or scratching at the ears may signal a problem.

Lethargy or Fever

Some ticks transmit diseases such as Lyme disease or ehrlichiosis. If your pet seems unusually tired, has a fever, or shows signs of joint pain, contact your veterinarian right away.

Pale Gums

In severe infestations, blood loss from ticks can cause anemia, which may show up as pale gums or weakness.

How to Check Your Pet

Regular inspections are key, especially during warmer months.

• Run your fingers slowly through your pet’s fur, feeling for small bumps.
• Use a fine-toothed flea comb to check for fleas or flea dirt.
• Examine hidden areas: under legs, inside ears, around the tail, and between paw pads.
• After outdoor adventures, do a quick full-body check.

Prevention Is the Best Protection

Year-round flea and tick prevention is the most effective way to keep your pet safe. Regular grooming, yard maintenance, and routine veterinary checkups all play an important role in reducing the risk of infestation.

If you suspect your pet has fleas or ticks, don’t wait. Early action can prevent discomfort and protect your pet’s long-term health. The team at Knickerbocker Road Animal Hospital is here to help with thorough exams, safe removal, and personalized flea and tick prevention plans tailored to your pet’s needs.

Call us today to schedule an appointment and keep your furry friend protected year-round. Our veterinary clinic welcomes those in San Angelo, TX and the surrounding areas.