Spring and pets: why parasites come back in force
With the return of warmer days, we spend more time outdoors, and so do our pets. Spring also marks the renewed activity of several parasites, such as fleas and ticks, which can affect your dog’s or cat’s comfort and health. The good news? A few simple steps, combined with appropriate prevention, can greatly reduce the risk of infestation.
Fleas and ticks: what dangers do they pose to your pet?
Fleas are small parasitic insects that typically feed on blood, both in canines and felines. They can cause significant itching, redness, hair loss, and sometimes even allergic reactions in more sensitive animals. A flea infestation can also spread quickly throughout the environment (carpets, couches, bedding), making the problem longer and more difficult to resolve.
Ticks, on the other hand, usually attach themselves to the skin during outdoor walks with your pet (tall grass, trails, wooded areas). Beyond local irritation, they can transmit diseases. Even if you only spot one, it’s best to act quickly and monitor for any unusual signs.
Important reminder
Prevention is almost always easier than treatment. Once an infestation is confirmed, you often have to manage both the animal and its environment.
How can you prevent parasites in pets?
1. Rely on regular prevention
The foundation is using a preventive treatment recommended for your pet (based on its species, weight, lifestyle, region, and activities). Consistency in administering the product is key: spacing out or skipping doses could leave a window during which your pet becomes vulnerable to parasites again.
2. Inspect after outings
After a walk, take a moment to inspect your pet’s coat: the neck, behind the ears, armpits, between the toes, and at the base of the tail. For cats, regular brushing also helps detect issues earlier.
3. Wash and maintain accessories
Fleas can survive in the environment. Periodically washing cushions, blankets, and toys, as well as vacuuming frequently, can make a real difference, especially if your pet has access to furniture.
4. Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations
If your pet has had parasites before, frequents a dog park or daycare, or spends a lot of time outdoors, the level of infestation risk changes. Your veterinarian is the best resource for choosing an appropriate prevention strategy.
What should you do if your pet has fleas or ticks?
Signs to watch for
- Excessive scratching or licking
- Redness, scabs, hair loss
- A visible tick or an unusual small bump on the skin
Avoid improvising
We understand the urge to act quickly, but avoid using products that aren’t suitable (or are intended for another species). Some products can be poorly tolerated, or even dangerous, depending on the animal. If you’re not sure what you’re seeing, it’s best to ask for advice: your veterinarian remains the best resource to confirm the cause and recommend the safest option for your pet.
When to consult your veterinarian promptly
- Your pet is very uncomfortable (constant scratching, presence of wounds)
- You see multiple ticks or a flea infestation
- Your pet is eating less or shows a change in behavior
- You have a young pet, a senior pet, or a pet with a health condition
How the pharmacy can help
When it comes to antiparasitic treatments, many pet owners appreciate being supported to properly follow the plan recommended by their veterinarian. At the pharmacy, you can benefit from:
- Picking up veterinary medications directly at the pharmacy: a convenient option to avoid extra trips
- Advice from the pharmacist: support for proper use of the treatment, respecting dosages and administration frequency
- A simple and reassuring solution:less hassle, more peace of mind, especially when preparing your pet for spring
In short, whether you’re preparing your pet for spring or figuring out what to do when a parasite is spotted, your pharmacy can guide you and refer you to a veterinarian when necessary.
Key takeaways
Especially in spring, a few simple steps combined with regular antiparasitic prevention can help avoid many issues. And if you’re unsure, don’t wait, seeking advice quickly is always better than dealing with an infestation later.