Excessive scratching may be the first sign that your pet has an annoying flea problem. But it may also indicate a larger health issue. Fleas can cause a wide range of diseases that deprive your pet of energy, cause sores and affect overall health, such as:
Excessive biting or scratching around
the tail,
groin, backside, neck or back possibly producing
scabs or bumps.
Pale gums, weakness and lethargy.
Intense anal itching or tapeworm segments around
the anal area or in the feces.
Infected cats may not have clinical signs or
show symptoms but the disease can be passed to humans.
High fever, dehydration and enlarged lymph nodes.
Few symptoms in cats, but can be
passed on to people.