Latest news with #fleas
Yahoo
12-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
FDA approves shot that protects dogs from fleas and ticks for 8-12 months
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a new shot that protects dogs six months or older against fleas and ticks. Merck Animal Health's Bravecto Quantum is officially the first FDA approved drug that protects dogs from fleas and ticks for eight months to a year, the agency announced on Thursday, July 10. Licensed veterinarians may now administer the parasiticide injection, monitor for adverse reactions and determine the appropriate treatment interval based on each dog, according to the FDA, which prohibits anyone without proper licensing and professional expertise to perform the shots. Christine Royal, Director of Merck Animal Health's Veterinary Professional Services, said the FDA approval sets a new standard offering dog owners a safe and effective option for flea and tick protection. "We take great pride in our company's leadership in long-acting preventative parasiticides and are excited to offer a convenient option that gives dogs year-round comprehensive protection from fleas and ticks in one easy injection they can receive from their veterinarian," Royal said in a news release. Bravecto Quantum is an injectable medication for dogs six months or older that can protect against fleas and ticks for eight to 12 months. The drug uses a unique type of fluralaner that can maintain effectiveness for up to a year, according to Merck Animal Health. The research company encourages dog owners to check with a veterinarian to stop fleas and ticks, which can pose health risks to both animal and human health as some transmit diseases. Fleas, which can live in both warm and cold climates, also cause severe allergic dermatitis in dogs and cats, Merck Animal Health warns. Bravecto Quantum is expected to be available at veterinary clinics and hospitals across the U.S. as soon as August 2025, Merck Animal Health announced. The drug was first approve in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. Last year the European Union followed suit and now its approved in more than 50 nations globally. The FDA is urging pet owners to ask a veterinarian is a safe and effective option for their dogs. Bravecto Quantum contains the ingredient fluralaner, which falls under the antiparasitic drug class known as isoxazolines. The FDA states that while isoxazolines have proven to treat and control fleas and certain ticks in pets, their effectively typically lasts for one month. The FDA also warns that some isoxazoline products have been associated with neurologic adverse reactions in dogs and cats such as muscle tremors, ataxia and seizures. Halfway through 2025, emergency room visits prompted by tick bites peaked to the highest rate in five years nationwide, according to new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data. In the Northeast tick bites accounted for 283 ER visits per 100,000 during the peak month of May, up from 209 around the same time last year, the CDC's Tick Bite Data Tracker shows. By July 6, the CDC reported that emergency department visits for tick bites already surpassed nearly a decade of July records, with 92 visits per 100,000 reported nationwide. The most common ER visitors included children ages 0 to 9 and people over the age of 70. Contributing: Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA TODAY This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: FDA approves shot that protects dogs from fleas, ticks for 8-12 months
Health Line
12-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
What Are Signs of Fleas in Your Bed?
If you sleep with your cat or dog and they have fleas, you may be more likely to get bitten in bed. Those bites may include hives, swelling, rashes, and itching. Cozying up to a dog or cat in bed can be soothing, unless your furry friend has fleas. Fleas bite people as well as pets — and if your pet typically shares your bed, they may bring fleas with them. Many pet owners sleep with their companion animals. One older small 2015 study in people with sleep disorders found that more than 50% of pet owners let their four-legged pals share their bedroom. While fleas are typically harmless to humans, flea bites do itch. They can also make your pet very sick. If you're wondering why you and your pet can't stop scratching, read on to learn about the signs of fleas in bed and what you can do to get rid of fleas forever. What are some signs you may have fleas in your bed? Thousands of flea species exist. The most common types in the United States are dog fleas (Ctenocephalides canis) and cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis). Either kind will bite dogs, cats, rabbits, and other furry mammals. If they have access, they may also bite birds. Fleas bite people, too, though they won't stay on you for long. Fleas prefer to nestle in fur or feathers, rather than skin or hair. Fleas like to live on a blood host. They won't take up residence in your bed, but they will leave evidence that they've been there. If your pet has fleas, the eggs may roll off their fur and onto your bed, where they'll hatch. Adult fleas can jump long distances and may make their way onto bedding. Signs of fleas in your bed include: Bites If you notice itchy red dots on your body, you may have a flea infestation. Multiple flea bites may appear as a straight line. In some instances, flea bites may have a red halo surrounding their center. You may have additional side effects if you're allergic to fleas or have a strong reaction to the bites. Symptoms include: Residue (flea dirt) All insects poop, including fleas. Flea dirt, or residue, looks like tiny black dots. If your pet has fleas and sleeps with you, you'll likely see or feel flea dirt on your sheets. Flea dirt is primarily made up of the host's blood. Fleas with a host nearby consume much more blood than they need to survive daily. Fleas often excrete while biting and may release 10 or more drops of flea dirt while they feed. Pet scratching It can be hard to see flea bites on your pet, so you may want to pay attention to whether your pet is scratching or appearing to gnaw or bite its own skin. Fleas can infest an animal's entire body. This causes widespread itching and discomfort. If left untreated, your pet may develop skin infections or a rash from constantly breaking their skin while scratching. Even if your pet is housebound and never goes outside, they can still get fleas. Fleas can travel into homes on the soles of shoes or on clothing. If your pet is scratching, they may have a flea infestation. What do fleas and eggs look like? Fleas don't live long lives, but they do go through several stages of development: Eggs: Female fleas lay up to eight eggs after each feeding. The oval-shaped eggs are loose and can roll around. They may land on any surface, including your bed. They can remain there until they hatch, 1 to 12 days later. Flea eggs are clear to white in color and resemble dandruff flakes or salt. Larvae: Flea eggs grow into larvae. Flea larvae look like small, translucent worms or maggots. You may be able to see black matter inside their bodies, especially under a microscope. This stage lasts for about a week. Pupae: Flea larvae grow a cocoon to become incubating pupae. Their cocoons are sticky, so dust can get caught on them. Flea pupae look a lot like flea dirt. Pupae can remain alive and ready to hatch for up to 1 year under warm, humid conditions. Adult fleas: Fleas are tiny, but they're not microscopic. If your home is infested, you may see them in carpets or bedding. Fleas are wingless. They range from light reddish-brown to black in color. Their bodies are tough and can be hard to squish. Fleas move very quickly and can jump as high as 13 inches. You may see them moving around on your pet's skin, but you probably won't see them nestling on top of the fur. They are easiest to see on your pet's belly. How long do fleas live on beds and furniture? Fleas need blood to survive. In the presence of a host, a flea can live up to 1 year. Without a host, they can survive for only 1 or 2 weeks. If your home is warm and humid, they may live longer than they would under dry or cold conditions. That's why spring and summer are flea seasons. Fleas like to burrow into carpeting and bedding, but they won't live there for long if they don't have a host to feed from. Fleas are more likely to live on your pet's body than on your sheets or blankets. How can you treat beds and upholstery for fleas? If you have fleas, daily vacuuming of all soft surfaces, including carpets and upholstered furniture, such as couches and chairs, can help remove them. You can sprinkle flea powder onto carpets and rugs and vacuum it up later. Sprays are also available for treatment around the house. Throw out the vacuum bag each time you vacuum. The suction action of vacuuming may kill many fleas in all stages of their lives, but it probably won't kill all of them. Fleas can continue to live and lay eggs in vacuum cleaner bags for 1 to 2 weeks. Wash your sheets, blankets, and pet's bedding in hot water every few days. If you have curtains, you should launder them often, especially if they touch the floor. How can you prevent fleas? The most common way fleas get into homes is on the bodies of pets. Talk with a veterinarian about the best type of flea prevention products for your furry or feathered friend. Some products kill existing fleas, eggs, larvae, and pupae and prevent future infestations. You can also get dual-prevention products that protect your pet from ticks and fleas. These may be especially beneficial if your pet lives in or often visits grassy or wooded areas. When using flea prevention products, make sure you stick to a schedule. Some require monthly reapplication. Even while using these products regularly, check your pet often for fleas. This may be easiest to do during bathing, when you can see their skin clearly. Flea prevention products You can choose from among many different types of flea prevention products for your pets. They include: chewables and pills (prescription and over-the-counter) flea collars topical lotions or gels shampoos Talk with a veterinarian about what products are right for your pet. Product recommendations may vary depending on the size and age of your pet. Long-haired animals should also be groomed often, especially during hot weather. This will make them more comfortable and make spotting fleas and flea dirt easier.
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
FDA approves long-acting flea treatment for dogs, marking veterinary breakthrough
Dogs across the U.S. could soon get longer-lasting protection against pesky parasites thanks to a new treatment approved by federal regulators Thursday. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has given the green light to Bravecto Quantum, the first-ever flea and tick preventative that can protect dogs for up to 12 months with a single injection. The treatment is approved for dogs and puppies 6 months and older. The new shot is an alternative to treatments that usually need to be given every month or every few months. "Fluralaner, the active ingredient in Bravecto Quantum, can be an important part of parasite control depending on where pet owners live in the country," said Dr. Tina Wismer, senior director of toxicology at ASPCA Poison Control, in an email to ABC News. "A long-term flea and tick preventative can be a useful option for dog owners who live in areas where year-round protection is necessary, or for those who might not be able or remember to administer treatment on a monthly or quarterly basis." MORE: Male infertility: 5 lifestyle factors that could be hurting your fertility The injectable treatment must be administered by a licensed veterinarian, who will determine whether an 8- or 12-month protection period is appropriate based on local tick species. Veterinarians will also monitor for potential side effects. While the drug belongs to a commonly used and safe class of medications called isoxazolines, some dogs may experience neurologic side effects, including muscle tremors and seizures. Julie Cappiello, with Voters For Animal Rights, an advocacy organization, said she welcomes the new treatment but emphasized caution. "As someone who spends a great deal of time outdoors with my dog, I see the convenience of a long-lasting, 12-month flea and tick preventative like Bravecto Quantum," she said in a statement. "However, it's important to recognize that no single treatment is right for every dog, and all medications come with potential risks." The new treatment is manufactured by Intervet, Inc., based in Rahway, New Jersey. Pet owners interested in the new treatment option should consult their veterinarians to determine if it's appropriate for their dogs, particularly those with a history of neurological issues.
Health Line
12-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Why Fleas Live on Pets and Not Humans
Fleas can bite humans, but they live and reproduce on animals, under the protection of fur and feathers. To get rid of fleas, you need to treat your pet and your home. When you think of fleas, you probably associate them with your pet. Fleas generally live on dogs, cats, birds, or other warm-blooded animals, because their fur and feathers make it easy to hide and reproduce. Fleas are very small, wingless parasites that bite skin and suck blood to survive. While fleas don't typically live on human bodies, they can still bite you. A flea can jump up to 13 inches, so it's possible a pet or other animal can transfer them to you. This article looks at where fleas prefer to live, how long they live, and how to get rid of them. Can fleas live on humans as well as pets? Fleas do not live on humans, but they can still bite us. In the United States, the most common fleas are cat fleas. These can live on both cats and dogs. There are also dog fleas, but they are less common in the United States. Fleas can also live on other mammals and birds, such as rodents and livestock. There are 2,500 different types of fleas around the world. Fleas are attracted to animals because of their fur or feathers. They can burrow into fluffy bodies to hide and feed. They then lay eggs that eventually hatch after the larva and pupa stages. This cycle can cause a flea infestation on your pet (or livestock) that will need to be treated. Fleas do not live on humans because they lack substantial hair like animals, and it's very difficult to reproduce without the protection of fur or feathers. Can humans get fleas in their hair? Fleas do not live on humans, but they may jump on your hair if you're sleeping with a pet or bending down to pet them. Generally, though, flea bites occur near the feet, ankles, and legs by jumping from an infested pet or an item in your home. Fleas can live in carpets, fabric-covered furniture (like sofas), and pet beds. How long can fleas live on humans? It is very unlikely that a flea will stay on your body for any substantial amount of time. Humans do not have fur or feathers like other animals and birds. Fur and feathers give fleas a safe place to lay eggs and repopulate without being noticed. If a flea lands on you, you're likely to wash or scratch it off before it can breed. Can humans carry fleas from one home to another? It's rare that a flea will transfer from one body to another. It's more likely that an animal or person will get fleas from areas where animals live and sleep. It's possible that bringing an infested pet bed into a new home could spread fleas to another source. Do fleas bite humans? Fleas can bite people, most often on the feet, ankles, and legs. They may bite three times in a row. This is known as 'breakfast, lunch, and dinner.' Typically, the initial bites do not cause a lesion in the skin, but once an individual is exposed to the fleas for a longer period of time, they may develop a hypersensitive reaction. The red marks from a flea bite may last a few days, but they may get worse if you are more sensitive to the bites or if the area becomes infected. The photo below shows what flea bites on a person with white skin look like. Do fleas pose any other dangers to people or pets? Fleas are more than a nuisance. They can actually cause several serious conditions and may be fatal to animals if the infestation is so severe that it interferes with their overall health. Fleaborne diseases Fleas can carry several different diseases that may be transmitted during a bite. In the United States, the most common include: plague (in Western states) typhus (in Southern states) cat scratch fever (also called cat scratch disease) parasites (such as tapeworms) These diseases, whose incidence rates appear to be increasing due to the effects of climate change, require medical treatment, such as antibiotics or antiparasitic medications. Allergic reactions A flea bite may cause an allergic reaction on your skin because your body reacts strongly to the flea's saliva. An allergic reaction to the bite can cause flea allergy dermatitis. This can result in: irritated, red skin extreme itchiness hives infection Allergic reactions to flea bites can also occur in animals. An allergic reaction can cause an animal to scratch their bites to such an extent that their skin becomes raw or they lose hair. In these cases, you'll need to take your pet to a vet for diagnosis and treatment. How to get rid of a flea infestation If you suspect a flea infestation, you will need to treat both your pet and your home. There are several methods you can try to remove fleas. To remove fleas from your pet Talk to a veterinarian about the safest and most effective method for flea removal. Use a flea comb when grooming your pet. Leave soap on your pet for at least 5 or 10 minutes when giving them a bath. Use a veterinarian-prescribed flea medication that kills fleas. Follow the instructions very closely for over-the-counter flea products. Protect your pet by avoiding the application of flea removal in their eyes, nose, and mouth. Use gloves and other protective gear on yourself when applying flea removal products. To remove fleas from inside or outside your home Wash pet beds and other fabric toys or mats in hot water. Vacuum thoroughly, then transfer the vacuumed debris to a plastic bag, seal it, and dispose of it outside immediately. Apply insecticides to baseboards, but make sure the insecticides you're using are not harmful to pets. Clean all upholstery (furniture, rugs, carpet, bedding window treatments) often. Close up holes where wild animals may get into or near your house. Remove debris surrounding your house. Call a pest control service if you suspect you have a serious infestation of fleas. Preventing a flea infestation in your home You can avoid a flea infestation in your home in several ways, including: checking your pet regularly for fleas cleaning your pet's sleeping areas preventing your pet from entering spaces likely to have fleas from other animals, like crawl spaces or barns The most common reason veterinarians see pets with fleas is that owners stop giving their pets quality flea and tick prevention during the cold, winter months. Fleas can survive off an animal's body in the summer, but have to be on a body in the winter to survive. That's why it's important to provide year-round monthly flea prevention to your pet to prevent infestations. Takeaway Fleas can bite humans, but they prefer to live on animals that offer the protection of fur and feathers. Fleas can also live in the sleeping spaces of your pets, such as beds, carpets, and sofas. Flea bites are irritating and may also cause a more serious health condition that requires a doctor's treatment.
