Parasite Control – Flea, Tick & Mite Protection
Parasite control products protect dogs and cats from fleas, ticks, mites and their bite-related irritation. By interrupting the pest lifecycle on the pet and in living spaces, these solutions reduce itching, lower disease risk, and keep coats comfortable year-round.
What parasite control achieves
- Stops active infestations by killing adult fleas/ticks and reducing bites that trigger scratching and hot spots.
- Breaks lifecycles with insect growth regulators (IGRs) that prevent eggs and larvae from maturing.
- Provides ongoing barriers—monthly or multi-month protection to limit re-infestation from parks, gardens, or other animals.
Consistent, label-guided use keeps populations low and helps prevent repeat flare-ups.
Types & key actives
- Topical spot-ons – applied to the skin; common actives include fipronil, imidacloprid, selamectin, or moxidectin plus IGRs (e.g., pyriproxyfen, S-methoprene).
- Oral chews/tablets – isoxazoline class (afoxolaner, fluralaner, sarolaner, lotilaner) for systemic flea/tick control on a regular schedule.
- Collars – long-duration bands using deltamethrin or imidacloprid+flumethrin for continuous release around the coat.
- Sprays & household treatments – contact insecticides and IGRs for bedding, crates, and carpets to target immature stages (use as directed).
- Shampoos & rinses – fast knockdown during baths; pair with a longer-acting product for sustained protection.
How to use parasite control (safe workflow)
- Weigh first: choose the correct pack by species and weight/age; never split doses between pets.
- Apply correctly: for spot-ons, part the fur and place on skin at one or more points; keep dry per label before/after bathing.
- Time your doses: follow the product interval (monthly, 8–12 weeks, or collar duration) and set reminders.
- Treat the environment: wash bedding hot, vacuum thoroughly, and use labeled home sprays where needed.
- Monitor: comb for fleas/ticks weekly and note any skin reactions; consult your veterinarian if concerns arise.
Combining on-pet protection with environmental cleanup delivers the fastest, most durable results.
How to choose the right protection
- Parasites in your area – heavy ticks call for robust tick efficacy; indoor fleas may need added IGR support.
- Lifestyle & coat – swimmers or frequent bathers may prefer oral options; long-coats often suit collars or chews.
- Household mix – select cat-safe formulas if cats and dogs share spaces; avoid dog-only pyrethroids around cats.
- Duration & convenience – monthly spot-ons vs. 8–12 week chews/collars; pick the cadence you will not miss.
- Veterinary guidance – kittens/puppies, seniors, or pets on medication may need specific actives or dosing.
Important notes
- Species safety matters: many dog pyrethroids (e.g., permethrin) are toxic to cats—never use dog products on cats.
- Do not combine products with the same active unless your vet directs; overdosing increases risk of adverse effects.
- Treat all pets in the home and clean the environment to prevent “ping-pong” re-infestation.
- Seek veterinary advice for persistent itch, hair loss, anemia signs, or if ticks are attaching despite treatment.
Build a parasite control plan that pairs a reliable on-pet product with smart home hygiene. With correct dosing, species-safe formulas, and steady scheduling, you’ll limit bites, disrupt lifecycles, and keep pets more comfortable in every season.