The Best Flea, Tick and Worm Prevention | Cats & Dogs
How often should you deworm and remove fleas for cats and dogs? Even indoor pets need regular deworming and flea removal too? To keep our furry friends healthy, it’s crucial to establish the habit of regular deworming and flea prevention. While fleas can cause itching, dermatitis, and disease transmission, ticks pose a greater threat as they can spread a potentially fatal illness known as tick fever.
Source of Parasites for Cats and Dogs
- Environment: Cats and dogs can pick up fleas and ticks from infected soil, water sources, or other animals while outdoors.
- Diet: Consuming contaminated food, such as raw meat, can expose cats and dogs to fleas and ticks.
- Owners: Pet owners may unknowingly bring fleas and ticks home on clothing or shoes after interacting with other cats and dogs, leading to potential infestations.
How to comprehensively deworm and remove fleas?
Deworming can be divided into external deworming and internal deworming, both of which need to be done regularly. Here are common parasites found externally and internally, along with treatment methods for fleas, ticks, cats, and dogs.
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|
Common Parasites |
Impact |
|
External |
Fleas, Ticks |
Itching, hair loss, decreased appetite |
|
Internal |
Roundworms, Hookworms, Tapeworms |
Mild: Lethargy, bloated abdomen |
Comparison of Flea and Tick products for Cats and Dogs | Veterinary Professional Recommendations
Beware of counterfeit products that can pose risks. The popular brands currently on the market include Nexgard, Revolution, Selehold, Frontline, Bravecto, and so on. Which one should we choose?
Regarding dogs, Dr. David believes that the most comprehensive product for preventing fleas, ticks, and heartworms is NexGard Spectra, while the best product specifically for fleas and ticks is Bravecto.
Regarding cats, Dr. David would recommend Selehold and Revolution, which can treat fleas, mites, roundworms, and scabies.
Veterinary Recommended Product Combinations
Remember to use intestinal parasites preventatives for cats and dogs every 3 - 6 months. Products for preventing fleas, ticks, and heartworms may not be effective against certain intestinal parasites, such as tapeworms, which are common in Hong Kong.
Flea Drops Usage for Cats and Dogs
Pet owners simply need to part the fur of cats and dogs and apply the flea drops to the dry skin on the neck. After using the flea drops, be cautious to prevent pets from licking the treated area. Avoid bathing or letting your furry friends come into contact with water within 48 hours of using the flea drops.
Some cats and dogs may have allergic reactions to parasitic medications. Before using flea drops, always read and follow product instructions and consult a vet for guidance.
Precautions
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Do not use dog products on cats: Some ingredients in dog products may not be suitable for cats.
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Do not overestimate your pet's weight and administer the wrong dosage: Before purchasing flea drops, measure your pet's weight to ensure the correct dosage.
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Be mindful of the product's applicable age: When selecting flea drops for puppies and kittens, pay attention to the minimum age requirements of different products.
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Do not overlook pet wounds: Before using flea products, check your pet's skin condition at the application site and avoid applying drops on wounds.
If you want to learn more about flea and tick prevention for cats and dogs, please contact us. We are always here to assist you. Remember! Always buy products from trusted sources like Vetopia to safeguard your pet’s health and well-being.
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