5 Things to Know About Fleas & Ticks in the Fall Season
Written by GCP
Updated September 22, 2021 | 5 Minute Read
The transition from summer to fall often brings a sense of relief to proud pet owners, because it marks the end of flea season. Right? Nope! Now, it’s one thing to try to shoo pests, but please don’t shoo the messenger. You need this information: Fleas — and ticks! — DO NOT go away just because the (ahem) dog days are behind us. The unfortunate truth is that, once the weather turns crispier, those pesky parasites only get grippier.
Here are 5 DID YOU KNOW?’s that might surprise you, and will certainly help you.
1. WORSE THAN THE 1% (or: 70 FOR 70)
Fleas are 70% likelier to get to your pupper or kitty in the fall than they are in the spring (the official start of the seemingly endless flea season). Why? The weather’s not hot but it’s still humid (average temperatures are around 70°) + extra precipitation. Fact: Fleas and ticks love heat — and they love murky.
2. BLAME THE RODENTS
Yes, your pets are the targets of fleas and ticks. But, for the most part when it comes to the fall season, they aren’t the carriers. For that, look to the rodents: mice, rats, and other scurriers who head indoors, for heat, once the summer sun is behind them.
3. BIG BOWL, SMALL JUMP
On average, cat fleas can jump approx. 5" — and dog fleas can jump a little further than that. If you keep a water bowl outside for Tabby or Toby, always place it far away from lawns, bushes, and leaf piles. The wrong kinds of grass-hoppers (heh) are out there, waiting to pounce.
4. COMB IS WHERE THE START IS
Dogs and cats start to grow winter coats long before the winter. In fact, you guessed it: They grow them in the fall. Thicker fur means more heat and more places to hide. Note: Unless you are super-vigilant, combing will only get you so far. Be prepared to look for additional assistance (including GCP’s Natural Flea and Tick Deterrent chews).
5. CLIMATE CLIMBERS
Among countless unfortunate ripple effects due to climate change is the fact that fleas and ticks are starting to treat the fall like an extended summer. The trend is undeniable: Fall seasons have been getting a lot warmer overall, and winters a lot milder. That might be good news if you like sun-tanning and you don’t like shoveling snow. But it’s great news for fleas and ticks...
Just because the fall season is warmer these days doesn’t mean you have to lose your cool when it comes to your pet + fleas and ticks. Those pests are always looking for a leg up (or, a paw) but if you maintain the same level of care and conditioning that you did in the summer months, you’ll all be fine. The point is: Fall is chill, but it’s not time for you to chill out just yet. Go get ’em!
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