Fleas And Itching

Fleas can cause itching in dogs, and in its most severe form can develop into a condition known as flea allergy dermatitis. This most common of allergies in dogs causes intense itching and may cause secondary skin infections to develop. Any animal can develop a flea bite allergy, and it only takes a few flea bites to cause allergic dogs to itch constantly.

  1. Identification

    • Fleas are insects that feed on the blood of animals, such as dogs and cats, and have an average life span of between 6 and 12 months. They thrive in climates with an average humidity level of 75 to 85 percent and an average temperature of 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Mature fleas spend the majority of their lives on the host (the dog), while immature eggs stay in the environment until maturity. Flea allergy dermatitis is caused by a severe reaction to the saliva in the bite, rather than to the insect.

    Effects

    • Intense itching and frequent scratching is a clue that your dog is suffering from flea bites. Flea allergy dermatitis can cause symptoms such as intense itching, chewing the tail and biting the front legs, tail and rump. Other symptoms include scratching the back legs, oozing sores, hot spots, skin redness, crusting sores and hair loss.

    Treatment

    • According to Pet Education, veterinarians recommend treating flea allergy dermatitis with antihistamines to control itching and steroids to quell itching and inflammation. Perhaps the most important aspect of treating flea allergy dermatitis in dogs is flea control, which is crucial to the dog and the environment in which he lives.

    Complications

    • Complications that can occur as a result of fleas and itching include excessive scratching and digging at the skin, which can cause bacterial and fungal infections to develop. In addition, these infections may spread to other areas of the dog's body or to other animals.

    Considerations

    • If your dog is itching and scratching excessively, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. She can prescribe medication to treat the symptoms and recommend the best flea control products for your dog.