Flea and Tick Prevention: Do’s and Don’ts for Pet Owners

As a responsible pet owner, are you diligent with your parasite prevention routine, or do you sometimes find yourself running a bit late when it's time to administer the next dose?

Essential Do’s and Don’ts for Effective Flea and Tick Prevention

To ensure your pet is well protected from the discomfort and dangers of fleas and ticks, here’s what you should do.

Why Flea Protection is Vital for Pets

Fleas are not just a summer problem—they thrive in warm indoor environments throughout the year. Most pets experience mild to moderate skin irritation from flea bites, but those allergic to flea saliva may suffer from severe inflammation and itching. This excessive scratching can lead to secondary bacterial infections, requiring further veterinary care.

Fleas aren’t just a skin issue. They can also transmit tapeworms (Dipylidium) and other diseases that can affect your pet’s health.

The Importance of Tick Prevention

While tick paralysis was once considered a seasonal threat in spring and summer, some areas of Queensland now see cases year-round. Paralysis ticks, which carry the toxin that causes muscle weakness, can be fatal if left untreated. Symptoms include difficulty walking, vomiting, and severe breathing difficulties.

Brown dog ticks, which carry the bacteria Ehrlichia canis, have also been detected in Queensland and other parts of Australia. These ticks can cause ehrlichiosis, a disease that results in fever, lethargy, bleeding, and potentially fatal complications in dogs.

The Do’s and Don’ts of flea and tick prevention

Do:

• Ensure the product you’re using matches your pet’s current weight, as a few extra kilos can make a difference. If your pet is close to the upper weight limit, consult our team about switching to a higher-range product for better protection.
• Carefully read the label instructions on any topical treatments, especially regarding application and bathing restrictions.
• Talk to our veterinarians if your pet has any special needs, such as a sensitive stomach, a breeding background, or a history of seizures.
• Ask our team for advice on combining treatments to protect against fleas, ticks, heartworm, and intestinal worms effectively.
• If you live near bushland, consult with us about safe combinations of tick-repellent products.
• Perform daily tick checks on your pet if you live in or visit areas known for tick infestations.

To minimise risks and side effects, make sure you avoid the following:

Don’t:

• Forget to administer treatments on time. Set reminders to help you stay on top of their protection.
• Use products meant for dogs on cats, as these can cause harmful reactions in felines.
• Skip treatment during the colder months. Parasite protection is essential all year round!

If you have any questions about the best parasite control options for your pet, give our team a call on (02) 6351 3269. We understand that sometimes life gets in the way, but we are here to help you keep your pet safe from harmful parasites.