As summer brings more outdoor activities for pets, it also increases their exposure to harmful pests. Parasites such as ticks, fleas, and intestinal worms can cause discomfort and health issues for dogs and cats. Ticks are known to transmit bacteria that can lead to Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis. Intestinal parasites may cause diarrhea, particularly affecting puppies and kittens, potentially leading to weight loss or stunted growth. Fleas not only cause itching and scratching but can also carry tapeworms, which pets can ingest while grooming themselves.
Read More
To help protect your pets from these parasites this summer, consider the following tips from the Cornell Small Animal Community Practice:
Choose an appropriate parasite prevention product. Various options are available, ranging from all-in-one treatments that guard against fleas, ticks, heartworm, and intestinal parasites to those that target specific pests. The choice should depend on your pet's lifestyle. Consult your veterinarian to determine the most suitable option based on whether your pet is indoors, outdoors, or swims in natural waters.
Avoid home remedies. Many online remedies lack effectiveness and can be harmful. Rely on veterinarian-approved solutions for parasite prevention.
Apply prevention products correctly. Different forms of prevention, including chewable tablets, topical liquids, and collars, must be administered according to instructions. For instance, a Seresto collar is effective only when it's snug against your pet's skin.
Maintain a consistent schedule. Most parasite prevention products require monthly administration throughout the year. Some products, like Bravecto, have extended durations. Always check product instructions to ensure proper use. Remember that fleas and ticks can remain active during winter.
Regularly check for parasites. No prevention product guarantees 100% effectiveness, so inspect your pets after outdoor activities. Ticks tend to attach to warmer areas, such as the ears and neck, making these spots important to check.
About the Cornell Small Animal Community Practice: Located in Ithaca, New York, this accredited facility by the American Animal Hospital Association provides health maintenance, primary care, and elective surgery. Established in the 1980s, the practice is dedicated to compassionate care and veterinary education.