As you enjoy the fresh spring air, give your pet the gift of parasite protection. A little effort goes a long way in keeping them safe, snug and scratch-free.
The good news? You can easily stay ahead of parasites with regular preventative treatments.
The warmer weather creates ideal conditions for parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms. Dr Carra Walters explains, “Pets are at greater risk due to increased outdoor activity and the faster breeding cycles of these parasites in mild, humid conditions.”
Fleas, ticks, and worms thrive in spring, eager to hitch a ride on your pet. Keep them safe and itch-free with prevention.
Fleas: the freeloaders
Fleas are a nuisance. “Early signs include scratching, biting, or grooming around the tail, abdomen, or groin, and flea droppings in bedding,” says Dr Walters. One flea can cause infestations, itching, infections and anaemia – and fleas also carry tapeworms.
Ticks: the sneaky biters
Ticks hide in grass, waiting to latch onto your pet. Dr Walters says, “Tick-borne diseases can spread within hours or days. Early signs include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and lameness.” Ticks can transmit potentially fatal diseases, such as tick-bite fever, in pets and humans if left untreated.
Worms: the hidden hitchhikers
Roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms are more active in spring, especially for outdoor pets, says Dr. Walters. “Pets are at higher risk of worms through contaminated soil, faeces, or eating infected animals,” she says.
Prevention is everything
The good news? You can easily stay ahead of parasites with regular preventative treatments. Dr Walters advises: “An effective parasite prevention routine should involve year-round treatments for fleas, ticks, and worms. These may include monthly spot-ons or tablets, depending on the pet’s lifestyle.
As to your garden, keep it tidy – long grass and piles of leaves are tick magnets. And wash pet bedding regularly. After outdoor play, give your dog or cat a once-over, especially around the ears and paws, and under the collar.
What if they’re already affected?
Don’t panic, says Dr Walters, adding: “If a parasite infestation is suspected, isolate the affected pet, treat them, and clean bedding and living areas. Also, observe for changes in behaviour.” Washing bedding with hot water and vacuuming regularly will help reduce the risk of reinfestation.
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