Getting outside is a great way to stay healthy and have fun with your furry friends. The summer time is perfect for swimming, hiking or a Frisbee game at the park but itchy mosquito bites can be a real summer bummer. Even worse, there are some diseases that these blood-feeding insects can spread. There are many things that can be done to help protect your dogs and cats from mosquitoes which All Pets Veterinary Medical Center will discuss.
All Pets Explains the Importance of Mosquito Protection for Pets
Our pets have some natural protection against mosquitoes thanks to their fur, but their ears and nose are still exposed. Dogs usually spend more time outside, so they have a greater exposure time to being bitten by mosquitoes. While dogs and cats experience the same irritating itch humans feel from a bite, mosquitoes also can carry harmful parasites and diseases. This is why mosquito control for pets is extremely important.
Heartworm Disease
When it comes to mosquitoes biting your dog or cat, heartworm disease is the greatest concern. This disease is caused by a tiny worm that lives in animals’ hearts and veins. Heartworm disease is spread when a mosquito bites an infected animal and then bites a second animal. Heartworm offspring can be carried from one creature to the next. Once inside your pet, it can grown to a foot long.
Other Illnesses Carried by Mosquitoes
Mosquites can carry other diseases, including West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. These diseases can be deadly, but they are rare in cats and dogs. However, despite its rarity, it is important to take whatever steps you can to protect your pet.
All Pets Veterinary Medical Center’s Tips for Protecting Your Pet from Mosquitoes
Apply a Pet Bug Spray
You can find bug sprays at pets stores formulated just for animals. If you are planning to be out for extended periods of time with your dog or cat, find a spray that is appropriate for them, and apply it to their coat according to the directions on the bottle.
Try a Monthly Repellent
Similar to the repellent you apply for fleas once a month, you can also apply mosquito repellent this way. In fact, many repellents combine protection against both. When applying these repellents, you typically put them where your pet can’t reach them, such as near the skin on the back of the neck.
For dogs, K9 Advantix is a monthly repellent option available. However, this should be kept away from cats, as it is toxic to them. If your cat does eat some of it (such as licking it off the dog), contact your vet immediately.
Avoid Walking Your Dog When the Mosquitoes are Out
When walking your dog, pick times when mosquitoes are less active. Typically, you want to avoid the times around sunrise and sunset, as that’s when the mosquitoes are out and biting.
These are just a few ways to protect your pet from mosquitoes during the summer time. Don’t hesitate to contact All Pets Veterinary Medical Center with the link below for more information or to discuss a mosquito protection plan for your pet today!
