With the arrival of spring, it's essential to be aware of the risks that our four-legged friends, dogs and cats, may face. It’s true that the days get longer and the weather becomes milder, but nature awakens, and there are some more or less invisible threats that can endanger the health of our pets. Let's take a look at the most common dangers together to create a mini-guide for prevention during the flower season.
Fleas and ticks: Be mindful of dogs and cats in spring.
Fleas and ticks thrive during the warmer months, posing a threat to the health of our pets. As we know, fleas can cause itching, allergic dermatitis, and transmit diseases like tapeworm. Ticks, on the other hand, can transmit pathogens responsible for serious diseases such as Lyme disease and ehrlichiosis.
How can we protect Fido and Felix from fleas and ticks? It’s crucial to use anti-parasitic products recommended by your trusted veterinarian and regularly inspect your pet's coat carefully to detect and remove any parasites. Prevention is one of the most powerful tools we have to improve the quality of life for our furry companions.Processionary caterpillars pose a danger to dogs on spring walks.
Pine processionary caterpillars pose a significant danger to dogs in spring, particularly between March and April. These insects release stinging hairs that cause severe irritation to the skin and mucous membranes of our pets. In some cases, contact with the hairs of processionary caterpillars can even cause allergic reactions and anaphylactic shock (it's worth noting).
To reduce the risk of exposure, avoid areas where processionary caterpillars are present and pay close attention when walking in wooded areas. Always remember that the veterinarian remains a point of reference in case of suspected contact; an immediate visit will help detect the presence of these dreaded insects.Leishmaniasis: Protecting pets from sandflies
Another risk that spring brings, along with flowers and warmth, is leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease transmitted by sandflies, which are insects similar to mosquitoes, that can affect both dogs and cats. During this time, with rising temperatures and increasing rainfall, the activity of these vector insects increases, annoying even humans.
Leishmaniasis, in particular, causes symptoms such as weight loss, skin lesions, and kidney failure, and it can compromise the affected animal's immune system. To protect dogs and cats from mosquito bites, we suggest using mosquito-repellent products recommended by your veterinarian and minimizing your pet's exposure to mosquito-infested environments.Toxic plants are always lurking.
With the arrival of spring, many toxic plants for dogs and cats start growing lushly again in gardens, parks, and green areas. We’re mainly talking (but not only) about azaleas, oleanders, and rhododendrons, which are extremely harmful if ingested by our pets. Symptoms include nausea and vomiting but can also escalate to more severe issues such as heart failure and death.
Especially when taking the dog to the park or letting the cat roam freely, we should supervise outdoor environments (such as gardens or terraces), keep a close watch on our animals, and always have the veterinarian's number at hand.Filariasis: Mosquitoes are the enemy of spring and pets.
Mosquitoes transmit filariasis, also known as heartworm disease, which can affect both dogs and cats, similar to leishmaniasis. With the mild climate and increasing humidity, mosquitoes find fertile ground to attack our pets; once again, to prevent filariasis, it’s important to protect them with specific antiparasitic treatments.
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