Choosing the right flea, tick, and heartworm preventative for your dog and cat involves several factors. Veterinary preventative medicine is advancing quickly, making preventatives easier than ever. Costs in treating parasites and heartworm are very costly and could cost us our pet’s life if left untreated.
The choices can be overwhelming and can leave you wondering what direction is best for you and your pets.
So here are some tips to help you take the first step.
Tip #1 - The Vet
Always start with the expert, your veterinarian. The Dr knows your pet’s health history and can recommend the best preventatives based on age, weight, breed, health status, and lifestyle. Once in a while they may have samples, coupons, and they can recommend where to get the best place to purchase your pet’s preventive.
Tip #2 - Lifestyle
Consider Your Pet's Lifestyle. If your dog or cat spends a lot of time outdoors or in tick-prone areas, you may need a more robust preventative. Indoor pets might need different protection compared to those frequently in high-risk environments. If your furry friend is at higher risk for worms, and receives a heartworm shot at the vet, Inteceptor Plus might be an easy choice.
Tip #3 - Efficacy and Coverage
Evaluate Product Efficacy and Coverage. Different products cover different parasites. Some are all-in-one treatments for fleas, ticks, and heartworm, while others target specific parasites. NexGard Plus is a “one and done” monthly treatment for fleas before they can lay eggs, ticks, 5 species of worms, prevents heartworm, and is safe for puppies as young as 8 weeks old.
Tip #4 - Administration Method
Assess Administration Method. Preventatives come in various forms, such as oral tablets, topical treatments, and collars. Choose the route that you and your pet are most comfortable with. If chews are your pet’s idea of a good time, explore injections and topical preventatives. Have you had to ever try to force a cat to swallow a pill or bad tasting medicine? Its not just dogs that receive heartworm preventatives either! Protection for worms in the past has been oral liquid or pills that most of our feline friends are less than enthusiastic about. Flea and tick prevention has traditionally been found on collars or is a topical liquid we can purchase at even discount and dollar stores. Did you know that there are topical solutions for cats that treat and prevent fleas, ticks, worms and even heartworm? Revolt, and Revolution Plus are great options. I personally like NexGard Combo by Beriger and Ingleheim for kittens and cats that have any potential of going outdoors. Frontline Plus might be a better choice for a cat that is not ever able to escape into the outdoors.
Tip #5 - Allergies and Sensitivities
Check for Allergies and Sensitivities. If your pet has had allergic reactions or sensitivities to certain medications in the past, inform your vet. They can help you choose a product with a lower risk of side effects.
Tip #6 - Frequency of Administration
Consider Frequency of Administration. Some treatments are monthly, while others might be every three months or longer. Consistent coverage is key!. Proheart 12 which gives your dog, a full year of heartworm protection. But will you remember the monthly flea, tick, and worm protection? Brovecto offers 3 months of flea and tick prevention. If you want 3 months of “all-in-one” protection, Simparica may be a better choice.
Tip #7 - The cost
Consider Cost. Preventatives vary in price. While it's essential to protect your pet, find a product that fits your budget. Sometimes, buying in bulk or choosing a longer-acting product can save money in the long run. Combinations of preventatives may seem more costly, but if it combines several separate purchases, it may make more sense.
Tip #8 - Reviews and Recommendations
Look for Reviews and Recommendations. Reading reviews and getting recommendations from other dog owners can provide insights into the effectiveness and ease of use of different products.
Tip #9 - Your Pet's Response
Monitor Your Pet's Response. After starting a new preventative, watch for any adverse reactions or side effects. Report any concerns to your vet, who may suggest an alternative product if necessary.
Working Together
You, your best friend, and your vet working hand in hand can keep your pet free of worms, fleas, tick borne diseases, and heartworms. Prevention is a healthier, less expensive way to keep your dog healthy and safe from the many parasites they are likely to encounter. Consistent coverage is key for effectiveness and helps keep our best friends healthy!
Remember to report any side effects or changes in your pet’s health to your veterinarian.