Fleas and ticks may not seem like a big deal, and you may not have had issues getting rid of them in the past. But preventing them is easier than you think, and can save you time and hassle in the long run. Read on to learn why preventing fleas and ticks is important.
What’s the difference between fleas and ticks?
Fleas and ticks are common pests for any animal owner and can be found in almost any climate, though they both prefer humidity rather than cold. Both can also find any animal or person to be a suitable host, and will feed on their blood. The main difference between these two is that fleas jump, and ticks do not.
Why do I need to prevent fleas and ticks?
Fleas and ticks are more than just pesky parasites. They can carry diseases from one animal and give it to another. Fleas are known to transmit varieties of tapeworm, bartonellosis (better known as cat-scratch fever), and hemoplasmosis. Ticks can spread Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other diseases.
How can I prevent fleas and ticks?
There are several ways that you can prevent fleas and ticks. There are a large number of topical products that are applied directly to the skin or oral medications. Some products are specifically for dogs, have weight and age guidelines, or are only for fleas or ticks, so you will want to read the labels before purchasing and applying them to your animal. If you are not sure which is best for your pet, check with your veterinarian.
To determine the best way to protect your pets, speak with your veterinarian at your next visit about the best ways to prevent fleas and ticks.