One of the most frustrating and stressful things pets owners deal with is parasites. When it comes to fleas and ticks, the most important thing to remember is that flea and tick prevention is a much better method than trying to control an infestation. Whether you are facing an infestation or are seeking information about prevention, this veterinary guide will help you deal with how to handle fleas and ticks in order to keep your pet safe.
Why Is Flea Treatment and Tick Prevention Important?
Keep in mind that preventing an infestation of these parasites is easier and less expensive than getting rid of and controlling an infestation on your pet and in your Rancho Cucamonga home. With that said, flea and tick prevention can help to keep your pet healthy and avoid:
- Hot spots
- Flea allergies
- Skin infections
- Ehrlichia
- Biting adult fleas
- Lyme disease
- Tapeworms
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever
- Prevents fleas from invading your home
Choosing a Flea and Tick Preventative
Pet owners in Rancho Cucamonga have a variety of options to choose from when it comes to flea and tick preventatives. When choosing a parasite preventative, there are a few important factors to consider, such as your pets lifestyle, age, and breed, so it is recommended that you talk with your veterinarian about which type of preventative is best for your pet. Some of the common preventatives include:
- Topical medication - also known as spot-on products, this is the most popular type of flea and tick preventative. These types of products are generally applied at the base of your pets’ neck and spread through your pet’s body either through their sweat glands or a bio-adhesive.
- Oral medications - these types of preventatives are gradually becoming more popular because they don’t require applying a topical ointment and letting it dry. However, they do not have the ability to repel ticks or fleas and require the parasites to bite or attach themselves before they are killed.
- Collars are a popular choice since they can simply be put on your pet without worrying about letting a liquid product dry or giving your pet oral medications.
- Sprays are an option, but they sometimes are difficult to apply for a total coverage.
- Dips which are a short-term solution used primarily to get rid of adult fleas and their eggs.
If your pet has an infestation of fleas, your veterinary office will be able to recommend flea treatment to kill the fleas your pet is infested with as well as products to use if they have also invaded your home.
Visit Your Rancho Cucamonga Animal Hospital and Protect Your Pet Today
To learn more information about the best preventative for your pet, contact Day Creek Animal Hospital.