As the weather warms, fleas and ticks become more active in many parts of the country. Some regions see these parasites year-round. Whether you are starting prevention for the season or reviewing a year-round plan, spring is a good time to talk with your veterinarian about what makes sense for your pet.
Why fleas and ticks matter
Fleas are more than an itchy nuisance. Some pets are allergic to flea saliva and can develop intense itching and skin problems from just a few bites. Heavy infestations can cause anemia, especially in young or small animals, and fleas can transmit tapeworms. Once fleas are established in a home, eggs and larvae in carpets and bedding can make them hard to eliminate.
Ticks can transmit diseases to dogs and, less commonly, cats. Which diseases are a concern depends heavily on where you live. Some tick-borne diseases can affect people too.
Many kinds of products
Flea and tick preventives come in several forms, including oral chews, topical liquids applied to the skin, and collars. They differ in which parasites they target, how long they last and how they work. Some are prescription-only and some are sold over the counter.
A few important safety points:
- Never use a dog product on a cat. Some ingredients used in dog flea and tick products, such as permethrin, can be extremely toxic to cats. Even close contact with a recently treated dog can be a concern with certain products, so ask your vet if you have both.
- Weigh your pet. Many products are dosed by weight. Using the wrong size can be ineffective or unsafe.
- Do not split or combine products unless your veterinarian advises it.
- Read the label carefully and follow directions exactly.
Questions to ask your vet
- Which parasites are a concern for my pet in our area?
- Should my pet be on prevention year-round or seasonally?
- Which product type fits my pet’s health, age and our household?
- Is it safe with my pet’s other medications?
- Does my indoor cat need flea prevention?
- How should I treat my home if we already have fleas?
- Do you recommend testing for tick-borne diseases?
Watch after starting a product
When you begin a new preventive, watch your pet for the next day or two. Contact your veterinarian if you notice skin irritation at an application site, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, unusual behavior, stumbling or tremors. If you think a product was applied incorrectly or to the wrong species, call your vet or an animal poison control service right away.
Prevention is easier than treatment
Consistent prevention is generally simpler and more comfortable for your pet than dealing with an established infestation or illness. Set calendar reminders for each dose, and keep track of when you last gave it. Your veterinarian can help you build a plan that fits your pet and your region. This article is general information only and not veterinary advice.
