Are Fleas Always Visible on Dogs?
WouterFleas are tiny reddish brown insects. They live on animals and can also be found on humans. They have no wings, and their flat bodies and sturdy legs enable them to easily jump from animal to animal. Their presence on your dog can make it difficult for you to detect fleas. Fleas can cause your pet to develop scabs, lose fur, and even have pale gums because of blood loss.
Fleas can be spotted by looking for reddish or irritated skin, or itchy, scratched or hairless spots. Some dogs may even develop a copper or rust-colored coat. A change in your dog’s behavior is also a sign that fleas are present.
Fleas can also cause your dog to scratch excessively. This is because fleas like to live in places where they cannot reach. Since dogs have thick fur, fleas can live in a variety of places. It is important to check all of these areas regularly. Check areas such as the tail, back of the thighs, and groin to see if your dog is infested. If you see any red patches, then you should see your vet.
Adult fleas are small, about an eighth of an inch in length and reddish brown. They’re hard to spot, but a magnifying glass will help you see them. The adults carry up to 100 immature fleas on their bodies. They also have 6 long legs, which help them jump a few feet.
