Cat and Dog Parasites: Fleas, Ticks and Worms
Worms, ticks, and fleas
When and how should I give my pet worming and flea medicine?
Flea-free pets are content. While worms and fleas are uncomfortable for your pet, if left untreated they may possibly cause more significant health problems. Read our helpful advice to get rid of bugs and keep them away.
How do I determine whether my dog or cat has fleas?
Fleas can be difficult to spot most of the time, even if in severe cases you might be able to see them on your dog or cat’s fur (or worse, they might jump to your skin!).
Defense is the best form of offense!
The easiest strategy to prevent fleas is to start a regimen early on and treat your dog or cat all year long, throughout their lives. Fleas are extremely easy to spread to your pet and difficult to detect. The most often used flea treatments are spot-on ones since they work well, don’t always need a prescription, and are simple to apply.
How should I apply a flea remedy to my skin?
Remove your pet’s collar before applying the spot-on therapy, and split the fur just enough to allow you to press the prescribed amount onto the area at the back of your pet’s neck. Fleas are often killed by the spot-on treatment within 24 hours, but this procedure must be repeated every 4 to 5 weeks to ensure that they don’t come back. Don’t forget to treat all household pets; otherwise, fleas will simply spread from one animal to another. If there has been an infestation of fleas in your home, it is imperative that you treat it as well. Get your hands on a household flea spray like R.I.P. Fleas, which is so effective that it keeps killing fleas for up to 12 months after application. Wash all pet bedding (and your own if they are permitted on the furniture). Now, display flea treatments for your home.
How do I determine whether my dog or cat has worms?
Both cats and dogs frequently contract worms, but with systematic, regular treatment, you can quickly gain control of the situation. Coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, low energy, enlarged belly, change in appetite, weight loss, skin rashes, dull coat, itchy bottom (week! ), and even visible worms in the feces (UGH!) are common symptoms. Eugh. Not only are all those symptoms unpleasant, but they can also indicate much more dangerous problems if left untreated. Fortunately, there are excellent remedies and prevention measures available. To prevent worms, you must treat your pet frequently, at least once every three months. The number of worm eggs excreted will also be significantly reduced with regular treatment.
How do I give my pet worming treatments?
Most worming treatments take the form of tablets – which can usually be administered on their own or disguised in your pet’s food.
