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Articles > Allergies > EnvironmentEverything You Need To Know About Flea Allergies Flea allergies are the most common type of allergy in dogs, and they are caused by flea saliva. It itches a lot and prompts the appearance of other skin infections. It is peculiar that old dogs, and dogs of any age, that suffer from flea allergies have very few fleas. Since it itches so badly, they end up grooming themselves frenziedly, getting rid of the fleas. But one or two bites every couple of weeks is enough to produce an allergy. Fleas are insects that suck blood and that live from 6 to 12 months, depending on the environmental conditions. The best conditions for them are a humidity level of 75 to 85% and a temperature of 65 to 80°F. The humidity factor rules over temperature. An adult flea spends most of its life on the host, while the eggs are present all over the environment. When old dogs suffer from severe itching, chew and bite their tails, rumps, back legs or front legs, show lesions from chewing, or hot spots on the hips or face, they most probably have a flea allergy. This allergy is a common cause of scratching, however, dogs scratch for other reasons too. Thus, the vet must discard other conditions like food allergy, atopy, skin irritations, sarcoptic mange, Cheyletiellosis, or ear infections before having certainty that the problem is a flea allergy. Some of these conditions may even develop together, or one as consequence of the other. The best diagnosis comes from checking the dog’s history, clinical signs, and from a positive response to flea control. There are three phases in the treatment: Prevent flea bites. Prevention using a strong flea control product is key, both on your dog and in the environment. You must start a month before flea season and go on until a month after the season ends. Vacuum the carpets regularly to remove eggs and larvae from the environment, and use a professional cleaning service if the case is severe. Go to the vet immediately if your dog gets serious skin lesions due to biting or scratching, and groom it regularly to remove fleas. Treat secondary skin infections. Flea allergies may cause secondary infections that have to be treated with antibiotics and antifungal drugs. Stop the itch. If your dog is itching severely, a small dose of steroids may be necessary to stop the cycle and make your older dog more comfortable.
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