Lice Infestation

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                      General Information



Lice are small, wingless insects that occasionally infest

domestic pets.  The 2 main types of lice are the biting louse and

the sucking louse.



Biting lice are very irritating to dogs and cats.  They do not

penetrate the skin but feed on dead skin, body secretions and

hair.



Sucking lice penetrate the skin and feed continually on the

animal's blood, causing great discomfort.  If the infestation is

heavy, the considerable blood loss may produce anemia.  Cats are

not affected by sucking lice.



Lice are very host-specific, and dog and cat lice do not infest

people.



                           Life Cycle



The female louse lays eggs and attaches them to your pet's hair

with a sticky substance.  These attached eggs, called nits, can

be seen without magnification.



In 7-10 days, the eggs hatch, and a miniature louse (nymph)

emerges.  In about 3 weeks, the nymph matures and begins to lay

eggs.  The entire cycle occurs on the infested animal and

requires about 1 month.



                 Important Points in Treatment



Treatment will be tailored to your individual pet's needs.

Clipping the coat often facilitates removal of the nits and makes

treatment with insecticides easier.  Combs and brushes should be

kept clean, and other household pets should be checked for lice.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * The lice return after treatment.



    * Your pet's general health deteriorates.