True or False: Because fleas are species-specific, they won’t pass from dogs and cats to exotic companion pets.
Answer: False
Although there are “dog fleas” and “cat fleas,” when it comes to biting, fleas don’t always stick to the animal they were named after! In fact, the cat flea is the most common domestic flea species in North America and will happily feed on other pets in your home, including dogs, hamsters, guinea pigs, gerbils, rabbits, ferrets, sugar gliders and rats! If you find fleas on one of your pets, all pets should be treated. Because exotic pets have specific needs when it comes to flea treatment, make an appointment with your VCA veterinarian who will prescribe the safest and best treatment option for your companion pet and provide you with advice for environmental cleaning to help eliminate fleas in your home.
*Live Chat with a licensed veterinary professional is free for VCA clients through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple’s App Store and Google Play.
