How do flea bites manifest in a dog? - briefly
Flea bites show up as tiny, red, raised papules that cause intense itching, most often on the neck, tail base, and abdomen. These sites can progress to hair loss, crusted scabs, or secondary bacterial infection from excessive scratching.
How do flea bites manifest in a dog? - in detail
Flea bites in dogs typically appear as small, red papules or pustules on the skin. The lesions are often concentrated around the neck, base of the tail, abdomen, and inner thighs, where fleas are most likely to feed. Each bite may produce a pinpoint puncture wound that quickly becomes inflamed.
Clinical signs include:
- Intense scratching or licking of the affected area
- Redness and swelling that may spread outward from the bite site
- Development of crusted scabs or hot spots (localized dermatitis)
- Hair loss around the lesion due to repeated trauma
- Secondary bacterial infection, evident as purulent discharge or foul odor
- Visible flea dirt (digested blood) near the bite locations
In some dogs, the reaction is systemic. Signs such as lethargy, decreased appetite, and fever may accompany severe infestations. Anemia can develop if the parasite load is high enough to cause significant blood loss.
The progression of lesions follows a predictable pattern. Initial bite marks appear within minutes to hours, followed by escalating pruritus. Continuous irritation leads to excoriation, which creates an opening for opportunistic bacteria. If untreated, the wound can enlarge, forming a larger, inflamed area with necrotic tissue.
Diagnostic clues include:
- Presence of live fleas or flea debris on the coat
- Positive flea allergy test (intra‑dermal skin test or serology)
- Cytology of exudate revealing neutrophils and bacterial organisms
Differential diagnoses to consider are mange, allergic skin disease, and tick‑borne infections. Confirmation relies on finding the parasite or its remnants.
Effective management requires immediate removal of fleas, topical or oral insecticides, and soothing topical therapies to reduce inflammation. Antihistamines or corticosteroids may be prescribed for severe allergic responses. Antibiotics address secondary infections, while regular grooming and environmental control prevent recurrence.