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Insect bites and stings - Management
What advice can I give to confirm the presence of an infestation?
- Confirm the presence of an infestation by looking for:
- Fleas and dried masses of flea faeces in the fur of an affected animal.
- Fleas in the animal's bedding (flea eggs and faeces have a 'pepper and salt' appearance).
- Areas of crusting or alopecia in the animal's fur (common in dogs), and scratching or excessive grooming (common in cats) are a sign of flea infestation.
- Excessive dandruff, 'walking dandruff' especially on the back of a cat or dog, is a sign of infestation with cheyletiella mites.
- Blood spotting on bed linen and a heavy, unpleasant, almond smell indicates activity of bedbugs.
- Where it is difficult to confirm the presence of an infestation, seek specialist advice from a veterinary surgeon or a pest control agency.
Basis for recommendation
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