Why protect against fleas
Fleas can cause severe irritation and infection of the skin (flea allergy dermatitis). They may also carry Bartonella - this is a bacteria that causes the disease Bartonellosis, also known as Cat Scratch Disease. The Big Flea Project results showed that 11.3% of fleas were carrying this disease that can affect both dogs and humans if exposed to infected fleas or flea dirt.
As well as diseases, fleas can carry the flea tapeworm which can cause harm to our pets.
Map of flea risk
This interactive flea map, created from The Big Flea Project results, helps to show risk in your local area. Use it to search for the types of diseases that are prevalent in different areas across the UK.
In development
The flea life cycle
Fleas are the most common parasite problem for UK dogs and cats. It’s vital to understand the flea life cycle to beat an infestation. Take a look at the different stages of the cycle below – and remember that 95% of any infestation is in the home and not on the pet!
The only way to treat a flea infestation and break the cycle is with at least 12 weeks of continuous protection1.
1 Dryden et al. Parasites & Vectors (2015) 8:364
Diseases related to fleas
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Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)
Flea allergy dermatitis (FAD)
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Tapeworm
Tapeworm
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Bartonellosis
Bartonellosis
Why protect against ticks
In the UK, ticks can carry various diseases including the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, an infection that affects both dogs and humans: symptoms can include a ‘bull’s-eye rash’ in people, but this doesn’t always occur. Other symptoms include lethargy and flu-like symptoms. It’s important to know how to check for ticks properly, and what precautions you should take to avoid them entering your home.
Map of tick risk
This interactive tick map, created from The Big Tick Project results1, helps to show risk in your local area. Use it to search for the types of diseases that are prevalent in different areas across the UK.
*Abdullah et al. Parasites & Vectors (2019) 12:71
Diseases related to ticks
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Babesia
Babesia
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Lyme disease
Lyme disease