Like any breed, Maltese are prone to ticks and fleas, particularly if they spend a lot of time outside and in areas where these pests are prevalent. Fleas and ticks can lead to allergies in your pet, skin irritation, redness and discomfort. However, they can also lead to more serious conditions. Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a tick borne disease and is passed to your pet through the bite of a tick. Symptoms in the early stages of the disease include muscle pain, fever, reduced appetite, lethargy and fatigue, reduced mobility, swollen lymph nodes, and red spotted rash. It can also lead to vomiting, fluid retention, pain in the eyes and blood in the urine. In the later stages of the condition, it may lead to seizures and even renal failure.
Similarly, Lyme disease is another tick borne disease and can lead to fever, migratory arthritis, skin irritation, decreased appetite, weight loss, and swollen and stiff joints. It can also lead to renal failure, heart disease and, in some cases, even death.
Fleas can lead to mild reactions such as skin in your pet or more serious allergic reactions and infestations. Symptoms that your Maltese may be infected can include skin redness or irritation.Your pet may scratch or bite the infected area, and you may even see signs of fleas on your pet’s coat. As fleas can carry tapeworms, you may notice small white specs on your pet’s coat. Your pet may also show signs of being generally unwell.
If you think your pet may be suffering from flea or tick problems and show signs of being unwell, it is preferable to have your veterinarian check them to ensure that there are no other serious complications. Your veterinarian may carry out blood tests as well as a physical examination to detect signs of Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever and other conditions. Antibiotics such as tetracycline or doxycycline may be prescribed and, for Rocky Mountain spotted fever, corticosteroid, or other anti-inflammatory medications. If your Maltese has developed other complications such as heart problems, renal failure, or anemia, your veterinarian will treat these accordingly.
Following a good tick and flea control regime is the best way to prevent any complications or infections. Keep your pet away from areas that you know to be high flea and tick areas, such as long grass and woods. There are a wide range of flea and tick repellents available which can be applied topically. Carrying out regular examinations of your dog’s coat and skin is also suggested.
If you do find a tick, use fine tipped tweezers to remove the tick. It is important to ensure the tick does not break, as this may trigger the tick to secrete salvia into your pet’s skin which can contain infection. Similarly, there is a chance for some infections to spread to the pet and so tweezers and gloves should be worn. If, after a few tries, you are still unable to remove the tick, it is important to visit your veterinarian to have it removed safely.