New! Treating Pets with Flea Allergies, an educational video from HPI.

Treating Pets with Flea Allergies or Flea Bite Dermatitis

Flea saliva is an allergen that can cause extreme discomfort for sensitive dogs and cats, or those that are prone to allergies. When a flea bites, it leaves its saliva (and allergens) under the pet's skin and the area becomes red, swollen and severly itchy, a condition known as Flea Bite Dermatitis.

Dogs or cats who develop an allergic skin reaction to flea bites will scratch, bite and rub their skin, especially near the base of their tail. They may experience hair loss in the area of the flea bites.

Treatment of flea bites is a three step process:

1. Controlling the fleas
2. Treating the symptoms of flea bites
3. Addressing the underlying causes (suppporting the immune system)

Controlling or Eliminating Fleas

When used regularly, flea collars, sprays, powders and shampoos are effective in reducing the number of fleas that come in contact with your dog or cat. Herbal Flea Pet Powder contains rosemary and other herbs that act as a natural flea repellent and can be used safely without adverse side effects.

Other Videos on Allergies:

Allergy Overview

Atopic Dermatitis

Food Allergies

Suggested products for pet with Flea Bites and Flea Allergies:

FleaDerm

Herbal Flea Pet Powder

Immugen

Related Articles:

Essential Fatty Acids for a Healthy Coat

Skin Conditions and the Immune System

Reaction to flea bites range from mild scratching and occasional itching to more severe cases of intense, nonstop scratching, licking and biting of the affected area. Hydrocortisone products are often prescribed to relieve the inflammation, but long term use is not recommended. FleaDerm is a natural herbal cream that reduces inflammation, relieves pain and swelling and helps to heal the skin.

Supporting the Immune System

Dogs and cats with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to developing allergic reactions to flea bites. Immune support products like Immugen, will help strengthen your pet's natural defense system so that reactions of allergens (like flea saliva) are less severe. For more information on treating the underlying causes of many skin conditions, see the article Skin Conditions and the Immune System. Also see our section on Skin and Coat problems in dogs and cats.

NEW -FleaDerm from PetAlive

PetAlive FleaDerm contain a blend of natural ingredients in an herbal cream and will effectively treat, soothe, and prevent flea bite dermatitis in dogs and cats, without the side effects of prescription creams for this condition. German Chamomile is a cleansing agent and acts as an anti-inflammatory; Cleavers helps to expel toxins from the body; Marigold helps prevent infections with its anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties; and Witchhazel helps to reduce inflammation, bleeding and pain.

To purchase or read more about FleaDerm Cream...

Herbal Pet Flea Powder by NaturVet

NaturVet’s Herbal Flea Powder can be used directly on dogs, cats, puppies and kittens over the age of six weeks, or can be used on any type of pet bedding, such as pillows, foam beds, and blankets. The unique natural combination of Rosemary and Cedar Oil repels fleas while deodorizing and absorbing excessive skin oils. Herbal Flea Powder will leave your pet, or your pet’s bed, with a fresh and pleasant fragrance. Will not interfere with other spot-on products such as Advantage®.

To purchase or read more about Herbal Flea Powder...

To address the underlying problems of many skin disorders, consider adding an immune support product:

An impaired immune system can lead to many secondary problems, including skin disorders. Immugen's unique formula combines vitamins, minerals, amino acids, botanicals and other nutrients for optimal immune system functioning. This powerful formula contains the antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, Zinc, NAC, Thymus, Reishi Mushrooms, and the herbs Echinacea, and Astragalus which are known to help the immune system fight bacterial and viral infections as well as reduce inflammation associated with flea bite dermatitis and other skin conditions. See the article on Skin Conditions and the Immune System for more information.

To purchase or read more about Immugen...

For general skin disorders or to maintain a healthy coat, we recommend the following products containing Omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants:

Ultimate Skin and Coat from NaturVet

Formulated with only the highest quality, all natural active ingredients, Ultimate Skin and Coat by NaturVet combines the benefits of natural Omega 3, 6 & 9 Fatty Acids for healthy skin and a glossy coat. Fortified with biotin, vitamins, and minerals important to maintain normal digestion and for overall health.

To purchase or read more about Ultimate Skin and Coat..

Kelp Help from NaturVet

Kelp Help combines the benefits of natural Omega 3, 6, and 9 Fatty Acids for healthy skin and a glossy coat, as well as being fortified with ESSENTIAL vitamins and minerals important to maintain normal digestion and proper vitamin utilization.

To purchase or read more about Kelp Help...

Super EPA from Thorne Research

Super EPA is a fish oil concentrate that is a superior source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s work as an anti-inflammatory for skin diseases, asthma, allergies and kidney inflammation. Omege-3s reduce the effects of histamines and are needed to help prevent skin from drying and cracking.  Super EPA will improve the quality of your pet’s coat and reduce the swelling and wounding associated with biting and scratching.

To purchase or read more about Super EPA..

Septiderm-V Skin and Coat Supplement from GreenTree

A high quality dietary supplement with Omega 3, 6 & 9 Fatty Acids from natural sources fortified with vitamins for healthy skin and a glossy coat on your pet. Relieves itching, dull coat and excessive shedding when caused by dietary (fatty acid and/or vitamin) deficiency.

Contains no hormones or antihistamines and may be fed as needed to control itching, or every day for a beautiful coat.

To purchase or read more about Septiderm-V Skin and Coat Supplement...