What should be done if flea bites itch? - briefly
Clean the affected skin with mild soap and water, then apply a cold compress followed by an over‑the‑counter anti‑itch cream or oral antihistamine. Keep the area moisturized and avoid scratching to prevent further irritation and infection.
What should be done if flea bites itch? - in detail
Flea bites that produce itching require prompt cleaning, symptom relief, and monitoring for complications. Begin by washing the affected area with mild soap and lukewarm water to remove saliva and reduce bacterial exposure. Pat the skin dry; do not rub, which can aggravate irritation.
Apply a topical anti‑itch agent within minutes of cleaning. Options include:
- 1 % hydrocortisone cream, applied thinly three times daily for up to one week.
- Calamine lotion, spread evenly until the surface feels dry.
- Over‑the‑counter antihistamine cream containing diphenhydramine, used no more than twice daily.
If oral relief is preferred, a non‑prescription antihistamine such as cetirizine 10 mg or diphenhydramine 25 mg may be taken every 12 hours, respecting the product’s age‑related dosage limits.
Cold compresses applied for 10‑15 minutes, several times a day, decrease vascular response and lessen the urge to scratch. Avoid hot showers, tight clothing, and scratching, all of which can break the skin barrier and invite secondary infection.
Observe the bites for signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, pus, or fever. Should any of these develop, seek medical evaluation promptly. Persistent swelling or a rash spreading beyond the bite sites may indicate an allergic reaction; emergency care is warranted if breathing difficulty, swelling of the face or throat, or dizziness occurs.
Prevent future incidents by treating pets with veterinarian‑approved flea control products, regularly washing bedding, and vacuuming carpets to remove eggs and larvae. Environmental insecticides may be applied according to label instructions in heavily infested areas.
In summary, immediate cleansing, targeted anti‑itch treatment, cold compression, and vigilant monitoring form the core response to itchy flea bites, while comprehensive pet and home management reduces recurrence.