How can the presence of fleas on a dog be detected? - briefly
Examine the coat and skin closely, employing a fine‑toothed «flea comb» to capture moving insects or dark specks of flea feces, and note any excessive scratching or small red bumps. Place a small amount of fur on a white surface and gently shake; flea debris becomes visible against the background.
How can the presence of fleas on a dog be detected? - in detail
Detecting a flea infestation in a canine requires systematic observation and targeted testing. Visual inspection of the coat and skin provides the first indication. Fleas appear as small, dark moving specks, especially near the neck, tail base, and abdomen. Adult insects may be seen crawling, while larvae and eggs remain hidden in the fur.
A thorough combing session with a fine-toothed flea comb separates insects from the hair. After each stroke, the comb should be examined for fleas, flea dirt, or eggs. Collected debris can be placed on a white surface; a reddish-brown smear that turns black when moistened confirms the presence of flea feces.
Additional diagnostic steps include:
- Flea dirt test – press a damp cotton swab against the skin; if a dark speck dissolves into a reddish stain, blood‑filled flea feces are present.
- Skin scrapings – gently scrape the epidermis in suspected areas; microscopic examination reveals flea larvae or eggs.
- Behavioral signs – persistent scratching, biting at the fur, or sudden hair loss often accompany infestation.
- Veterinary examination – a professional may use a magnifying lamp or conduct a flea allergen test to assess hypersensitivity reactions.
Environmental assessment complements direct detection. Inspect bedding, carpets, and indoor flooring for flea eggs, larvae, or adult insects using a white sheet or sticky traps. Regular cleaning and vacuuming reduce hidden stages of the parasite.
Combining visual checks, combing, flea dirt analysis, and, when necessary, veterinary diagnostics ensures accurate identification of flea activity and informs appropriate treatment strategies.