Winter Parasites: Fleas, Ticks and Heartworms Aren’t Just Summer Problems

Winters in Asheville may bring colder temperatures and cozy fireside moments, but the threat of parasites for your pets doesn’t take a seasonal break. Fleas, ticks, and heartworms remain active during the winter months and can pose serious risks to your pet’s health. Many pet owners mistakenly believe these parasites are only a summer concern, but understanding how they survive and thrive year-round is crucial for keeping your furry friends safe. Let’s explore why winter parasites are a significant issue and how you can protect your pets throughout the colder season.

Parasites Persist: Why Fleas Are a Year-Round Problem

Fleas may be tiny, but their impact on your pet’s comfort and health is anything but small. While summer heat is ideal for flea reproduction, these pests are remarkably resilient and can survive indoors throughout the winter. Central heating in homes creates a warm environment that allows fleas to stay active and reproduce, even when it’s cold outside. Flea eggs, larvae, and pupae can also remain dormant for months, waiting for the right conditions to hatch and infest your pet.

Health Issues Caused by Fleas

In addition to being a nuisance, fleas can cause health problems for your pets. Flea allergy dermatitis, a common reaction to flea bites, can result in severe itching, hair loss, and skin infections. Fleas can also transmit tapeworms and other diseases, making proactive prevention essential.

Keeping Your Pet Safe From Fleas

To protect your pet from fleas during the winter, maintain a regular flea prevention routine as recommended by your veterinarian. Thoroughly vacuum carpets, furniture, and pet bedding to remove flea eggs and larvae. If you suspect a flea infestation, contact Partners Animal Hospital Asheville at (828) 333-7356 or book an appointment online for professional guidance.

Ticks Don’t Hibernate: The Winter Threat They Pose

Ticks are often associated with outdoor summer adventures, but they remain active in the winter, especially in milder climates like Asheville. Certain tick species, such as the black-legged tick (also known as the deer tick), can survive and search for hosts even in freezing temperatures. They are often found in wooded areas, tall grass, and leaf litter, making outdoor walks or hikes a potential risk for your pet year-round.

The Dangers of Tick-Borne Diseases

Ticks are more than just a nuisance; they can transmit serious diseases like Lyme, Anaplasmosis, and Ehrlichiosis. Symptoms of these diseases may not appear immediately, so early detection and prevention are critical. Unlike fleas, ticks latch onto their host and can go unnoticed for days, increasing the risk of disease transmission. If you find a tick on your pet, follow the steps below to remove it. Be sure to note the date it was removed and keep a look out for any changes in your pet.

Stay Calm & Gather Supplies

• Fine-tipped tweezers or a tick-removal tool
• Gloves (optional, but recommended)
• Antiseptic or rubbing alcohol
• A small container (to dispose of the tick)
•  

Grasp the Tick Close to the Skin

• Using tweezers, grab the tick as close to your pet’s skin as possible without pinching the skin.
• If using a tick removal tool, slide it under the tick’s body and twist gently.

Pull Out the Tick Slowly & Steadily

• Pull straight up with even pressure. Do not twist, squeeze, or jerk the tick, as this can leave mouthparts embedded in the skin.
• Check for Any Remaining Parts. If any small parts are left in the skin, they usually work their way out naturally. However, if irritation occurs, consult your vet.

Clean the Area & Dispose of the Tick

• Disinfect the bite site with antiseptic or rubbing alcohol.
• Drop the tick into rubbing alcohol or seal it in tape before disposing. Do not crush it with your fingers.
• Monitor Your Pet for Symptoms. Watch for signs of infection or tick-borne illnesses, like fever, lethargy, or swelling around the bite area. If you notice any unusual symptoms, contact your vet.

How to Protect Your Pet From Ticks 

Regular tick checks are vital, especially after outdoor activities. Pay close attention to areas like your pet’s ears, armpits, and between their toes, as ticks tend to hide in warm, hard-to-see spots. Pairing tick-prevention medication with routine grooming can reduce the risk of infestation. Reach out to Partners Animal Hospital Asheville for personalized parasite prevention plans tailored to your pet’s needs.

Heartworms: A Silent Winter Danger for Pets

Heartworms are often overlooked during winter, but the risk doesn’t disappear with the colder weather. Heartworm disease is caused by parasitic worms that live in the heart, lungs, and blood vessels of infected pets, leading to severe complications or even death if left untreated. While mosquitoes—the primary carriers of heartworm larvae—are less active during winter, they will still be out in full force during warm days in December and January.

Symptoms and Risks of Heartworm Disease

The progression of heartworm disease is often silent, with few or no symptoms in the early stages. By the time signs like coughing, fatigue, and weight loss appear, the disease may already be advanced. Preventative medication is the only effective way to protect your pet from this potentially life-threatening condition. While treatment is available for heartworm-positive pets, please note it is a rigorous and activity-limiting treatment that can be both expensive and stressful for pets and owners.

Importance of Year-Round Heartworm Prevention

Many pet owners pause heartworm prevention during winter, thinking the risk is minimal. However, skipping even one dose can leave your pet vulnerable. If you do skip more than one dose, be sure to get your dog tested for Heartworm Antigen before resuming preventative as there are side effects to the medication for infected dogs. Heartworm prevention is most effective when administered year-round, ensuring complete protection against this deadly parasite.

It’s important to note that Heartworms can also affect cats, especially cats allowed outside. While it is less common for cats to test positive for heartworms, there is no approved treatment in cats, making preventative essential. If you have a cat that spends time outdoors, we are happy to discuss prevention options that best suit you and your cat’s needs.

If you have questions about heartworm prevention or treatment, call (828) 333-7356 to schedule a consultation at Partners Animal Hospital Asheville.

Indoor Pets Aren’t Immune to Winter Parasites

A common misconception among pet owners is that indoor pets are safe from parasites. However, fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes can easily enter your home, hitching a ride on your clothing, shoes, or other pets. Once inside, they can quickly infest your indoor environment and target your pet.

Risks of Indoor Infestations

Fleas and ticks are particularly adept at surviving indoors, as they can hide in carpeting, upholstery, and bedding. Even if your pet spends most of their time indoors, they are still at risk of exposure. Regular grooming, cleaning, and year-round parasite prevention can significantly reduce the likelihood of an infestation.

Remember, prevention is always easier and more cost-effective than treating a full-blown infestation or disease. If your indoor pet shows signs of discomfort, such as excessive scratching or lethargy, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Contact Partners Animal Hospital Asheville to discuss the best preventive measures for your indoor companion.

The Role of Routine Veterinary Care in Parasite Prevention

Routine veterinary visits are one of the most effective ways to protect your pet from winter parasites. During these check-ups, your veterinarian can evaluate your pet’s health, recommend appropriate preventive medications, and provide guidance on recognizing early signs of parasite-related illnesses.

How Can You Prevent Parasites?

Preventive medications are available in various forms, including oral tablets, topical treatments, and collars. Your veterinarian can help you choose the best option based on your pet’s lifestyle and specific risks. Regular testing for diseases like heartworm can also catch potential issues early, improving treatment outcomes. If it’s been a while since your pet’s last check-up, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment. Contact Partners Animal Hospital Asheville to ensure your pet is well-protected against winter parasites.

Protect Your Pet Year-Round

Parasites like fleas, ticks, and heartworms don’t follow the seasons, and neither should your prevention efforts. When you take proactive steps year-round, you can protect your pet from the risks these winter parasites pose. Regular preventive care, consistent use of medications, and routine veterinary visits are the keys to keeping your furry friends healthy and happy, no matter the time of year. For expert guidance and personalized parasite prevention plans, contact Partners Animal Hospital Asheville at (828) 333-7356 or book an appointment online today.