Can Fleas Cause Worms?

If your pet has a flea problem, you should treat it immediately. If left untreated, worm infestations can cause serious health problems for your pet, including severe anemia, intestinal obstructions, and even death. Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent this problem. For instance, you can use flea preventative products year-round to protect your cat from fleas.

Fleas lay eggs in your carpets and furniture, and their larvae are quite small. They measure just one to two millimeters in length. Their preferred habitats are deep inside carpeting, under furniture, and in yard debris. They can also be found in areas where your pet seeks shelter.

If your pet has fleas, make sure you clean up after them. Do not leave feces on the floor or in the carpet, and make sure to throw away the pet feces as soon as possible. Ensure that children do not play in soiled areas, and always wash your hands after handling your pet. As with any disease or illness, parasitic infections should be diagnosed by a health care professional.

Fleas have a three to four-week life cycle, but they can live for several years in their environment. If they find a host, the fleas will immediately start feeding. Their heat, movement, and exhaled carbon dioxide attract them to their host. Eventually, they will mature into pupae.