PSA: Siphonaptera (Fleas)

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Vocabulary

Home Remedy ~ Medication istered Without Perscription or Proven Effectivness

External Parasite ~ Parasite Living on the Exterior of Their Host

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Overview

Fleas are tiny parasites that can't fly, but can jump tremendous distances compared to their size. They feed on the blood of rodents and other mammals. Unlike mites, they are not microscopic, but they still can be very hard to spot. Fleas can be collected using a flea comb, and when exposed to water they will turn red. Unlike other external parasites, fleas aren't picky as to what animal they're feeding on and will be more than happy to live on other species.

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Symptoms

Excessive Itching

Scab Wounds

Black Dots in Fur

Red Skin

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Treatment

Make sure to treat your other pets before, or while you treat your rats. Taking your rat to the vet is always the best option. Don't use flea shampoos meant for people or other household pets as they can be too strong and kill your rat. As with any parasite, deep clean the cage once a week by washing all fabrics on high heat, disguarding all wood, and wiping down all metal and plastic with a 1:10 bleach/water solution. Many home remedies may not work on fleas.

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Prevention

One of the most common ways fleas are transfered is from coming in with a wild rodent. Preventing that means keeping your rat indoors, as with every other external parasite. If any of your household pets acquire fleas, make sure to not let them near your rat cage. Even so, humans can carry the fleas aswell, so there's a good chance that your rat will acquire the fleas. You should always check your rats for fleas if your other household pets aquire them.

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Misconceptions

Flea infestations are generally quite rare in rats. If one of your pets acquires fleas, chances are your other pets will have them aswell. The fleas will generally spend very little time physically on your rat, as much of their life cycle is completed off a host, which is why you'll have to deep clean the cage weekly. It's best to treat your other household pets before your rats, because it's less likely your rat will transfer fleas to them.

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