How can flea sores be treated? - briefly
Clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water, then apply a veterinary‑approved antiseptic or antibiotic ointment. If lesions persist, seek veterinary care for systemic medication and implement comprehensive flea control to prevent recurrence.
How can flea sores be treated? - in detail
Flea bite dermatitis appears as red, itchy patches, often with hair loss or crusted lesions. The condition results from an allergic reaction to flea saliva and may become secondary infected if left untreated.
Initial care focuses on cleansing the affected skin. Wash the area with a mild antiseptic solution, such as chlorhexidine diluted to 0.05 %, and gently pat dry. Removing excess debris reduces bacterial colonisation and prepares the skin for medication.
Pharmacological measures address inflammation, infection, and pruritus. Common options include:
- Topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin 2 %) applied two to three times daily to prevent or treat secondary bacterial growth.
- Topical corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone 1 %) applied once or twice daily to diminish inflammation and itching.
- Oral antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine 5 mg) administered according to body weight to alleviate systemic allergic response.
- Oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone 0.5 mg/kg) prescribed for severe cases, with tapering schedule to avoid adrenal suppression.
Environmental management eliminates the source of infestation. Steps involve:
- Vacuuming carpets, upholstery, and pet bedding daily; discarding vacuum bags or emptying canisters immediately.
- Washing all removable fabrics in hot water (≥ 60 °C) and drying on high heat.
- Applying a residual insecticide spray (e.g., permethrin‑based) to floors, baseboards, and pet resting areas, following label instructions.
- Administering a systemic flea preventive (e.g., afoxolaner, fluralaner) to the animal on the recommended schedule; these products interrupt the flea life cycle and prevent new bites.
Monitoring continues for at least two weeks after treatment initiation. Observe for reduction in lesion size, decreased scratching, and absence of new spots. If lesions persist beyond this period, re‑evaluate for resistant bacterial infection or alternative allergic dermatoses and adjust therapy accordingly.
Comprehensive resolution requires simultaneous wound care, medication, and strict environmental control; neglecting any component risks recurrence and chronic skin damage.