One must protect their pets from parasites and fleas that cause discomfort and illness. Although doing so will require knowledge and precautions. And these illnesses can harm the owner’s health and their pets’ if left untreated. Fleas are most problematic during the summer, although they can live inside the house all year. Ticks are more prevalent during the spring and summer months. Here are a few tick and flea treatment mistakes to avoid and correct.
Tick and flea treatments
Maintain treatment throughout the year
Most pet owners only use preventative flea and tick treatments during the summer and discontinue them in the winter. This is not recommended because local weather patterns and flea and tick seasons vary. These parasites can be found all year in the South and other hot, humid areas. For example, fleas and ticks typically prefer temperatures of 40 to 50 degrees or higher, becoming less active as the weather gets cooler. So treat your pets all year to prevent ticks and fleas.
Don’t change the product constantly
Try to stick with products that offer your pet the most relief and those they can tolerate, even if some are cheap and on sale. Consult your veterinarian to determine the best and most cost-effective treatment option.
Use pet-specific products
Make sure the products are specifically made for your pet’s breed, stage of development, and weight range. Use only puppy and kitten products designed specifically for their age and weight, and never use dog products on cats. For example, if puppies and kittens are too young to be treated for fleas and ticks, use flea combs to remove fleas and their eggs and a tick remover to remove ticks.
Use the product carefully
Read the warning and label entirely before using. If a product is intended for weekly use, avoid using it daily. When using a spot-on treatment on multiple pets, only treat one at a time and keep the others apart. After using a product, wash your hands immediately with soap and water or wear protective gloves. Keep products away from food items, children, and pets.
Conclusion
We recommend consulting a veterinarian immediately if there are any side effects of fleas and ticks. Timely intervention and management will help significantly in treating them appropriately.
