Warmer days are here, and that means fleas and ticks are looking toward your pets' fur as a new home. Here, Deborah Y. Strauss, D.V.M, outlines options for preventing an infestation of fleas and ticks this year.

1. Flea and Tick
Prevention
F O R Y O U R P E T S
B Y D E B O R A H Y . S T R A U S S D . V . M .

2. Summer is just around the corner, and that means fleas and ticks
could be making your pets itchy and uncomfortable. Preventing
infestation before it begins can diminish the chance of skin problems
and infection in your household pets. In addition, keeping these
pests off your pets can keep them out of your house.
There are now a plethora of products to choose from, including
topical and injectable medications. You can work with your local vet
to determine the best regimen for your pet, environment and
schedule. Here are a few of the most common options.

3. Shampoos and sprays are among the most common methods for
preventing fleas and ticks. Some brands even kill fleas, ticks and
mosquitos. Most products are recommended for pets older than 8–
12 weeks. Your vet can help you decide on the best option for your
pet. There are also all-natural products on the market. Keep in mind
that you will need to apply the all-natural products more often for
them to remain effective.
Shampoos
and
Sprays

4. We’ve all heard those catchy jingles advertising the latest brand in
topical flea and tick prevention. Topicals are generally okay for animals
above the age of 7–8 weeks. If a topical treatment is the best option for
your pet, be sure to check if the product kills the adult pests while also
controlling flea development. Most treatments are designed for
monthly use.
Topicals

5. Flea and tick collars are increasing in popularity because they last for
months, making them convenient for busy pet owners. However, they
sometimes need to be used in conjunction with other preventative
medications, and can be potentially dangerous if small children or other
dogs touch the collar. Additionally, a cat who isn’t used to wearing a
collar may injure themselves trying to slip out of it. Your vet can help
you weigh the pros and cons.
Collars

6. Depending on where you live, flea and tick medications may be
necessary for your pets, but there are other ways to help. For example,
you should have a well-kept yard and try to avoid bringing your pet to
wooded, overgrown areas. You should also check your pets for fleas
and ticks every day if they go outside. To check, part their fur with your
fingers, even in between their toes and around the ears.
Other Methods

7. Thanks for Viewing!
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T A L K T O Y O U R P E T ’ S V E T E R I N A R I A N . I F Y O U N O T I C E
T H A T Y O U R P E T I S I T C H Y , B U T Y O U D O N ’ T N O T I C E A N Y
F L E A S , T I C K S O R B U M P S , Y O U S H O U L D A L S O C A L L Y O U R
V E T . I T I S P O S S I B L E T H A T Y O U R P E T M A Y H A V E A N
A L L E R G Y O R O T H E R C O N D I T I O N Y O U S H O U L D A D D R E S S .
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media to tell me how you protect
your pets from fleas and ticks.