Fleas
This project aims to improve our understanding of fleas in UK cats and dogs by bringing together information from multiple sources. Although fleas are among the most commonly encountered external parasites of pets, there is a need for contemporary information on how frequently they are encountered, the factors associated with flea infestations and the experiences of owners managing fleas in their households. By combining veterinary surveillance, laboratory and owner-reported data, the project seeks to strengthen the evidence base around flea activity in UK pets and identify priorities for future investigation.
The study has three main components.
First, anonymised electronic health record data collected through SAVSNET will be used to identify and monitor flea infestations in cats and dogs, investigate temporal, geographical, animal and owner-related factors associated with flea occurrence, examine patterns of flea product prescribing, and explore the wider clinical context in which fleas are identified. Findings on temporal and spatial patterns of flea occurrence will be shared through a publicly accessible interactive dashboard (see visualisation below).
Second, we will work with participating veterinary practices to evaluate the feasibility of collecting flea samples from cats and dogs attending their clinics, allowing us to examine the flea species currently affecting UK pets, and zoonotic diseases they may carry.
Finally, an online questionnaire open to cat and dog owners across the UK will gather information on owner observations, experiences and approaches to flea management. Together, these complementary data sources will provide a contemporary overview of fleas in UK pets and households, helping to inform future research, veterinary practice and policy discussions.
The visualisation below is based on our published REGEX and highlights the important role of cats, and disease seasonality.
Our research on fleas
Seasonality and other risk factors for fleas infestations in domestic dogs and cats. Medical and Veterinary Entomology.
Other flea-related resources from the team
Flea summary by Dr John McGarry.
Having access to such great data from participating labs and veterinary practices means we can give new insight into the effects of these most troublesome beasties on our pets.
