The nagging buzzing noise of mosquitoes circling your ears is just as disturbing as their lethal bites. It’s a feeling universal among all your four-legged entities. The outdoor time in the free space of greenery or a park full of jolly playing moments is lovely, but the nasty mosquito bites, not so much. The stocky, impenetrable fur can delude you into thinking that your dog is immune to mosquito bites. Well, you might want to correct yourself there, for similar to humans, mosquito bites severely and aggravatingly affect your pet, leaving dangerous infections behind.
Mosquito Bites in Pets
The bites on pets are not too different from that on humans. It causes a similar bulge or bruises on the pet’s skin, formidably raised and itchy. Although the coat or fur provides good protection, not all pets have the same perks, and even those who do may also possess skin prone to mosquito attacks. If you observe your pet frantically and desperately scratching themselves here and there, the best guess is it’s a biting invasion. Usually, people don’t worry about the same as it tends to reduce within a couple of days. But sometimes, it may develop into infection or hair loss at the bitten part.
Disease
These lethal bites sometimes carry fatal diseases such as West Nile Virus, infections, etc. Although the disorders can be cured, they can have long-term implications for a pet’s overall health when left unattended.
Heartworm
It’s pretty ubiquitous and quickly spreads among dogs. A single bite from an infected mosquito can sicken your doggo with heartworm. The parasite is severely dangerous, and its permeation in your pup’s system can cause grave troubles in the heart, lungs or blood vessels with life-threatening consequences.
Adult worms easily travel to a dog’s heart and lungs and can stay there for as long as seven years, causing profound damage. Some symptoms of heartworm invasion in your pal can be coughing, fatigue, bulging chest, sudden weight loss, and difficulty breathing. Keep an eye out for these signs and get your kiddo treated before mosquito season begins.
Allergic Reactions
The usual bump or welt, itchiness after a mosquito bite, is expected. But sometimes, dogs may fall into alarming infections, which might call for immediate expert care. Loss of appetite, difficulty breathing, excessive lethargy, rashes, and swelling around the face are all common signs of allergic reactions. Consult an online vet in such cases. Contact JaldeeVets for instant suggestions during dismaying situations.
Prevention and Protection
The first and wise step should always be prevention. But if that fails, the immediate step should be the detection in the early stages and quick medication.
Say no to Standing waters
Standing water attracts insects such as mosquitoes faster than anything. Rainwater can get stored in empty, clean containers like buckets, tumblers, toys, trashcans, etc. Remove them before it attracts infection and disease in your pet.
Screen the doors and windows
Screened doors and windows let the permeation of fresh air into your house without the intrusion of mosquitoes inside. The porch should also be filtered so that air and light can brush your pet’s fur without exposure to infectious insects.
Avoid outings during active hours of mosquito
The active hours of mosquitoes are around dusk and down. Try avoiding taking your dog out on walks during this time. Walking in the middle of the day or after the sun’s down can reduce the risk of mosquito exposure.
Oils as repellant
Humans apply scented oil as a natural repellant, but these might not suit your pet just as much. Cats are mainly sensitive to essential oils, which may provoke nausea, drooling, difficulty breathing etc., in your kitty. Please consult your vet before using oils on your pet to determine what suits them best.
Mosquito repellant garden FTW!
Basil, catnip, lemon balm, and rosemary are some plants which act as a repellant to mosquitoes. Plating them can keep infections at bay. However, some plants like Geraniums, Citronella, Lavender, and Garlic also can work as excellent repellents, but their consumption can be lethal to your pets, so try avoiding these.
Sometimes despite the cautious deterrence, mosquitoes can get to your pet. If you can’t prevent the threat, sincerely look towards better treatment of your puppy and employ everything possible to ensure they stay fit and healthy. A couple of treats of love and joy and a healthy lifestyle are all your pet needs.