Why autumn in Scotland can still be flea season for cats and dogs as central heating returns
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Mild September weather and cosy centrally heated homes could allow fleas to keep breeding in Scotland this autumn, putting pets at risk.
Scottish pet owners are being warned not to assume flea season is over just because summer has packed its bags.
The return of cooler weather might make it feel like fleas should be disappearing, but mild September conditions combined with warm homes could allow the unwanted pests to keep thriving.
A flea picked up during an outdoor adventure in summer can potentially become a much bigger headache once it gets indoors. And with central heating being switched back on, homes can provide a warm environment in which fleas continue their life cycle.
Fleas reproduce rapidly when conditions are favourable, with females capable of laying dozens of eggs a day.
But the real problem is that most of the flea life cycle doesn't happen on your pet.
Eggs can fall into carpets, sofas, bedding and other soft furnishings, developing through larval and pupal stages before emerging as adult fleas looking for a host.
That means treating a cat or dog alone may not be enough once an infestation has established itself.
Owners should vacuum carpets, floors and soft furnishings thoroughly, particularly around the areas where their pets sleep or spend most of their time.
Pet bedding should be washed according to its care instructions, using a hot cycle where the material permits. A suitable household flea spray can also help target fleas and developing stages in the home.
But owners should take care when choosing treatments. Products designed for cats and dogs are not automatically interchangeable, and doses can vary according to the animal and its size.
Constant scratching is perhaps the biggest giveaway, but fleas can be surprisingly difficult to spot.
Pets may also bite or lick themselves more frequently, become restless or develop irritated skin. Tiny dark specks in their fur can provide another clue, while a fine-toothed flea comb can help uncover an infestation.
If a pet develops severe irritation, hair loss or appears unwell, owners should speak to a vet.
Itch says its flea treatments are tailored to a pet's size and breed and provide 30 days of protection. The company says its treatments are vet approved, available without prescription and also protect against ticks.
New subscription customers can currently receive their first month's flea treatment free, although £3.49 postage and packaging applies to the first order for each pet. The offer covers up to three pets, while subscriptions can be moved, paused or cancelled.
For Scottish pet owners, the message is clear: don't let the cooler weather fool you. Check your pets, wash their bedding, clean soft furnishings and keep preventative treatment up to date to help stop fleas settling in for the autumn.