The Best Tick Treatments for Dogs and Cats

The gorgeous changing of leaves signals one thing: fall and tick season. So pet parents beware. It’s the time of the year when you have to be extra cautious and vigilant with tick treatments.

For places with more tropical climates, you might find ticks all year round. However, for countries with four seasons, adult ticks are most active during the fall. Late spring to summer is when younger tick nymphs develop.

As autumn approaches, they turn into mature adult ticks. This is never a good thing. Adult ticks are carriers of some of the most life-threatening diseases.

This puts your pet and you at significant risk. Curb your concerns, and find out how to best prevent any tick-related concerns this fall. Below, we outline some of the best tick treatments for dogs and cats.

Topical Treatments

You’ll find that there’s an extensive array of tick treatments available on the market. Many claim to target a variety of parasites that could harm your furry friends, but be careful. It’s better to choose a more targeted treatment.

This is why it’s best to consult your vet. Many topical treatments available in most pet stores do not need a prescription. A good rule of thumb is to follow the instructions when using them.

For example, shampoos direct you to lather your pet well first. This is for the active ingredient work before rinsing. The same is true for other creams, powders, and sprays requiring direct fur and skin application.

Another option to consider under topicals is a “spot-on” medicated treatment. It’s one of the best tick treatments available and is quite effective. It disrupts the tick’s life cycle and kills both the eggs laid and adults.

Spot-one treatments are easy to apply on your own, but you can also ask your vet to do so. Usually, they kill the ticks on contact or at a slower pace. Results are dependent on the treatment’s strength and concentration.

Tick and Flea Collars

It’s still best to keep your environment free from ticks, and this article explains why. If you’re looking for an extra layer of tick treatments for your dog or cat, then consider a tick and flea collar. While most topical treatments are more directed towards ticks, many collars are good against ticks and fleas.

Tick and flea collars prevent ticks from latching onto your pet in the first place. That said, they have limited efficacy and need regular replacements.

Injectable, Oral, and Chewable Medication

For more long-term protection, you can also opt for injectable or oral anti-parasitic medication. These types of tick treatment will need your vet’s expertise as they tend to be very specific. Your pet’s age, weight, health, and other factors are important considerations.

It’s best not to risk administering them without a professional or by yourself. However, you can also find chewable tick treatments that are in the form of medicated treats. Though always consult your vet before giving your pet one.

Plenty of Tick Treatments for Pets

When it comes to your pet’s health, most people are willing to pay for the best tick treatments. However, you’ll also need to do your research and make sure you pick the most appropriate medication for your pet.

If you find yourself in doubt about which to pick or need more information, our site has plenty to offer.