Warm winter temperatures may lead to uptick in fleas on pets

Many people in the Charlotte area are enjoying the warmer-than-usual winter temperatures. But it may not be good news for pets.

“We are seeing more fleas in a time of the year that we don’t normally see fleas, and that also means that we expect to see more fleas in the fall,” said Dr. Kim Bishop, with Total Bond Veterinary Hospital.

It’s because the warmth could lead to a spike in fleas. During winter months, there is typically enough of a cold spell to kill off fleas every year. But 2017 hasn’t been cold enough and long enough for that to happen.

[LOOKING AHEAD: Spring season looking warmer, wetter than average]

Temperatures need to be below 30 degrees for about two weeks for adult fleas to die. There have only been six days in a row since December of morning temperatures below freezing.

“The flea eggs and things live in the environment, which is why we see more fleas again when it gets warmer, but right now we haven’t even killed off the adult fleas that we have,” Bishop said.

[LINK: Information on fleas and pets]

The Carolinas are accustomed to mild winters, so fleas can be an issue year round.

It is important to keep an eye on your pet and make sure they are taking the proper medications and frequent baths.

Read more top trending stories on wsoctv.com:

• Student arrested, accused of making threat at school in Monroe
• Thousands take to streets of uptown for national immigration strike
• No backpacks at Ardrey Kill HS following school shooting threat
• Charlotte Douglas officials find no fence openings after plane hit deer
• Troopers: Man killed after truck slams into tree in Cabarrus Co.

Cox Media Group