Fleas and ticks are common household pests that like to live in hair. They are carriers for a variety of diseases, which makes them not only an annoyance, but dangerous for your pets and you. There are several different treatment options, but before you apply any treatment, read its instructions carefully so that you apply the appropriate dose at the right frequency. Consult a veterinarian if you're not sure which treatment is best for your pet.
Spot-on Medicines
Spot-on medication is applied by applying the dosage as drops to your pet's fur, usually in a place such as the back of the neck, so that your pet can't lick at it. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides a list of spot-on products that are registered with the EPA, which makes it easy to find medicines that are safe to use. If you do use spot-on medicines, avoid mixing cat and dog products. Giving a a cat a product that is for dogs may cause serious health problems.
Collars
Flea and tick collars were made to provide a relatively safe way to remove pests. The collar works by slowly releasing a pesticide. The dosage is smaller, so pets are less likely to have dangerous reactions to collar treatment. However, the collars sometimes cause severe skin irritation. While they usually reduce the number of fleas and ticks, they don't always completely remove the problem.
Natural Remedies
Natural remedies come in the form of shampoos, and spot-on-style applications, but they are made from natural ingredients, and they provide an alternative to toxic chemicals. Natural options require more work on your part, because you have to thoroughly apply things like shampoos throughout your pet's fur.
Flea and Tick Control Methods
When you do have a flea or tick infestation, treating your pet may not be enough to completely eliminate the problem. Flea and tick eggs that are on the floor will hatch and provide the next generation of pests. Vacuum the infested area daily, including cushions, blankets, rugs, and other furniture, to reduce the chances of an infestation coming back. If there are a huge number of fleas and ticks, you may have to replace bedding items such as blankets and pillows. You can use any medication in combination with flea combs, which remove the pests from your pet's fur.
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