https://www.chewy.com/education/cat/flea-and-tick/what-is-flea-dirt
Flea dirt is essentially a mix of flea feces and the blood they consume from your pet, often appearing as tiny dark specks that look like coffee grounds in your pet’s fur.
While fleas themselves can be hard to spot because they move quickly, flea dirt tends to stay put, making it an important early warning sign of a flea problem.
*You will most commonly find flea dirt around the base of your pet’s tail or on their belly, and it can be distinguished from regular dirt by wetting a bit of it on a white surface - if it looks Reddish, that IS digested blood, confirming it IS flea dirt.
Unfortunately, finding flea dirt usually means your pet has fleas, since fleas must feed on the animal long enough to leave waste, and females can lay eggs within days, quickly leading to an infestation.
*To get rid of flea dirt, the 1st step is to eliminate the fleas themselves through Veterinarian Recommended Flea Prevention Treatments and Environmental Cleaning.
Bathing your pet with a flea control shampoo can provide immediate relief, but it is VERY important to consult your vet to AVOID interfering with topical treatments.
Equally important is Thoroughly Cleaning your pet’s bedding, furniture, and living spaces to remove any lingering fleas or eggs.
*Fleas can also Pose Health Risks to Humans by carrying diseases like Tapeworms, Cat Scratch Disease, and Murine Typhus, so maintaining a flea free environment protects both your pets and your family.
For the best approach, work closely with your veterinarian to choose the Right Prevention Plan and keep your furry friend flea and flea dirt Free All Year Round.
Chewy editorial team understands how distressing it can be to discover flea dirt on a beloved pet and is here to support every step of the way in keeping furry friends comfortable and flea free.
Partnering with your veterinarian ensures the best protection for your pet’s health and home, allowing for many happy, itch free moments together.
