Why pet fleas can surge in Autumn 

It can be a common misunderstanding for pet owners that with the onset of Autumn and days getting colder that the risk of fleas and ticks has subsided. However, Autumn can be a very active season for fleas and tick populations so you need to stay alert and be vigilant with regular checks of your pet for these parasites and ensuring that routine preventive treatments are continued where needed.

In this article we highlight some of the key risk areas for you to consider, so your pet remains protected where these factors are relevant to their lifestyle and home environment.            

Fleas and Ticks Thrive in Autumn

There are a number of reasons that fleas and ticks remain active during the autumn season:   

• Fleas are incredibly resilient and can withstand chilly weather. In fact, some species of fleas and ticks are at their most active during the autumn months due to the environmental conditions this season provides.   
• There is a peak of activity in autumn for Ixodes ticks, the most common in the UK. A warmer, wetter climate has allowed these ticks to remain very active from early spring into late autumn and even the winter months, with no month guaranteed to be tick free. 
• As the leaves fall this creates a humid, sheltered environment on the ground, and an ideal breeding ground for both fleas and ticks.  
• In particular rough grass patches, leaf piles, animal burrows and woodland trails are hotspots for these parasites. This is a challenge for pets that enjoy exploring outdoors, as they are at an increased risk of encountering these pests. 

Turning to indoor environments, modern homes can bring some additional risks of flea infestations escalating in the autumn period. These include:   

• Central heating that provides consistently warm conditions that particularly suit the early stages of the flea lifecycle       
• Flea eggs and larvae that can lay dormant for several months in furnishings and carpets and then hatch when central heating is switched on  

For some pets, fleas and ticks are not just a nuisance they can also trigger allergic reactions and skin irritations such as flea allergy dermatitis. Autumn can be a prime season for other allergic irritants such as mite allergies and late summer/winter pollens, so it’s good to keep your pet protected from flea and tick parasite related irritants to prevent discomfort and potential complications. Regular care and inspection of your pet can also help you spot early signs of irritation and take prompt action.

To conclude, as autumn sets in, it’s good for pet owners to be aware that fleas and ticks can persist into the winter seasons. Safeguarding your pet against these parasites is essential to their well-being and comfort. Prevention is not just a spring and summer concern, it is something to consider all year-round to ensure your pet and household environment remain protected.