Choosing the Best Tick and Flea Treatment for Your Dog or Cat

Plettenberg Bay does not get cold enough for long enough during our winter months to control ticks and fleas. It is for this reason that our animals need protection from the ticks and fleas themselves, as well as the tick-borne diseases they carry, all year round. With many options available, selecting the right tick and flea treatment for your pet can be overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:

Key Considerations:

• Your dog’s lifestyle: If your dog loves swimming, a tablet might be a good option. Spot-on treatments can be less effective if your dog gets wet within three days of application.

• Your dog’s preferences: Some dogs dislike topical treatments, while others refuse to take tablets. Choose a method that works best for your pet.

• Your preferences and budget: Consider what you’re comfortable with and willing to pay for.

• Your dog’s age and weight: Choose monthly tablets/applications while your puppy is in a rapid growth phase. Fully grown dogs can use products designed to give cover for three months and there are apps to help keep track of dosing intervals.

• Cat products: Most of the products for cats are spot-on treatments. These are generally easier than dosing tablets and may contain some deworming coverage as well. Some need to be repeated monthly while others only every 3 months. Application at the vet is easily arranged for patients that require it.