WagbookFleas and ticks: how often should you treat your dog or cat?
How often to treat your pet against fleas and ticks, why winter counts too, and why you should never use a dog product on a cat.
Fleas and ticks are more than a nuisance. Fleas cause itching and can pass on tapeworm, and ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and babesiosis. A good schedule prevents a lot of trouble. But how often is ‘often enough’?
It depends on the product
There is no single answer, because each product lasts a different length of time. Roughly, there are three kinds:
- Spot-on drops: usually every 4 weeks.
- Tablets: there are tablets for 1 month and for 12 weeks.
- Collars: often work for several months, as long as they stay on properly.
Always read the leaflet and follow your vet’s advice. Your vet knows which product suits your pet, its age, weight and lifestyle.
In winter too?
In north-western Europe, ticks are most active from spring to autumn, but in mild weather they are around in winter as well. Fleas survive indoors all year, in rugs, baskets and cracks. That’s why many vets recommend treating all year round, especially for dogs and cats that go outside.
Careful: dog products are dangerous for cats
Some flea and tick products for dogs contain permethrin. It is toxic to cats, even in small amounts. So never use a dog product on a cat, not even ‘just a little’. In doubt? Call your vet.
Found a tick?
- Remove it as soon as possible with a tick hook or tick tweezers, close to the skin, with a calm twisting or pulling motion.
- Don’t use alcohol, oil or other products to ‘stun’ the tick.
- Keep an eye on the spot for a few weeks and see your vet if your pet gets ill, lethargic or feverish.
How Wagbook helps
In Wagbook you set up your flea and tick treatment with the schedule that belongs to your product, for example every 4 weeks or every 3 months. You get a reminder in advance and on the day itself. Tick it off and the next date is planned right away.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet which product and schedule suit your pet.
Never forget when the next time is
Wagbook remembers vaccinations, deworming, medication and weight for all your pets. Free, no account.
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