Parasite Prevention and Treatment

Fleas and ticks are parasites that feed off animal blood to survive. While flea bites can occasionally go unnoticed, they cause itching in most animals. The bites can even cause hair loss, redness and intense scratching. Fleas cause discomfort and can also transmit diseases and worms as they feed on your pet. Tick bites don’t bother most pets, but ticks can transmit dangerous diseases. At Hôpital vétérinaire de Chambly, we strongly recommend preventative parasite treatment to reduce the risk of disease following a flea or tick bite.

Fleas

Fleas are tiny jumping insects that attach to an animal’s coat using their claws. They reproduce at an impressive rate, which means a single flea can rapidly multiply into a full-blown infestation. Once your dog or cat is infested with fleas, the little critters usually infiltrate your home next, hiding under carpets and in upholstered furniture, where they can survive for weeks. Getting rid of ticks involves months of treatment for your pet and a deep clean of your home. To avoid an infestation, we recommend preventative treatment on a regular basis.

Prevention: There are a number of preventative products on the market against fleas. They can either be applied topically or administered orally. Treating your animal preventively can help get rid of any fleas before they have time to reproduce and get out of control. Talk to your vet to find out the best treatment for your cat or dog.

Ticks

Ticks are parasites commonly found in forests, wooded areas, tall grass and areas where deer are also found. Using an organ that can detect heat, ticks can sense when an animal is nearby. When their prey approaches, ticks jump and grab onto its fur, biting it and feeding off its blood. The tick will detach on its own once it has had its fill. However, the longer a tick is attached to an animal, the greater the disease transmission risk. If you find a tick on your pet, use gloves and tick-removal tweezers to detach the insect. Regular tweezers will also do the trick. It’s important to ensure that the insect has been removed completely and no part of it remains attached to your pet’s skin.

Prevention: We recommend treating your cat or dog preventively because of the risk of disease. Certain treatments provide dual coverage for fleas and ticks. Speak to your veterinarian, who can advise you on the best treatment for your furry friend.