Signs Your Dog Has Fleas (And What to Do)
By Dr. Stephen Kimani, BVM · Westlands Paws Veterinary Clinic, Nairobi
Fleas are one of the most common problems facing dog owners in Nairobi. Whether you live in Westlands, Lavington, or Kilimani, Nairobi's warm climate creates ideal conditions for fleas to thrive year-round. Knowing the signs early protects your dog, your home, and your family.
The Most Common Signs Your Dog Has Fleas
1. Excessive Scratching, Biting, or Licking
Constant scratching — especially around the base of the tail, belly, neck, or groin — is the number one indicator of fleas. Flea saliva triggers an allergic reaction, causing intense itching. Some dogs react to a single flea bite.
2. Flea Dirt in the Coat
Comb through your dog's fur near the neck and tail base. Tiny black specks that turn reddish-brown on a damp white tissue are flea droppings — a definitive sign of infestation.
3. Hair Loss or Bald Patches
Persistent scratching leads to hair loss above the tail, inner thighs, and belly. In severe cases, skin becomes raw and infected — a condition known as flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), very common in Nairobi dogs.
4. Restlessness and Irritability
A flea-infested dog is an uncomfortable dog — unusual restlessness, inability to settle, or irritability when touched are all signs.
5. Pale Gums (Anaemia)
In puppies or small dogs with severe infestations, blood loss can cause anaemia. Pale or white gums are a medical emergency — contact Westlands Paws immediately on 0700 762 529.
What to Do If Your Dog Has Fleas
Step 1: Visit Your Vet in Westlands Nairobi
Before any treatment, visit a vet. Our team at Westlands Paws can confirm the diagnosis and prescribe the safest, most effective treatment. Many supermarket products are ineffective or unsafe for certain breeds. See our parasite control service →
Step 2: Use Prescription Products
Vet-prescribed spot-on treatments or oral tablets kill fleas on your dog within 24–48 hours — far more effective than supermarket alternatives.
Step 3: Treat Your Home — Critical
Only 5% of a flea population lives on the pet. The other 95% lives in carpets, sofas, and bedding. Vacuum thoroughly, wash bedding at 60°C, and use a vet-recommended household spray in every room.
Step 4: Treat All Pets in the Household
If you have multiple pets, treat them all simultaneously — fleas move freely between animals.
Step 5: Set Up Monthly Prevention
In Nairobi's climate, flea prevention must be monthly and year-round. We offer WhatsApp reminders to help you stay on schedule.
Seeing any of these signs? Book an appointment at Westlands Paws in Westlands Nairobi today.
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