Fleas

Fleas are a major problem for all pet owners, especially during the warmer months. The huge array of flea treatments available can be very confusing at first glance.

Traditionally, toxic chemicals such as organo-phosphates were the only weapons we had against fleas and these were hazardous not only to the fleas, but also to the environment, the pet, and the pet-owner. While these old-fashioned treatments are still available, the move now is towards less-harmful chemicals with a greater efficacy.

Pet owners should never use flea collars or strong chemicals, especially on young animals under 6 months of age. Any very small animal should also be treated very cautiously (eg. chihuahua's, mini pinschers, etc).

The most popular flea treatment on sale at the clinic is Frontline. Frontline is topical preparation which can safely be used in puppies & kittens from 8 weeks of age. It is very safe and works by interfering with the flea's nervous system. It is applied to the back of the animal's neck where it binds to the oils in the skin, killing all fleas which come into contact with it within 24 hours. It needs to be applied every 4 weeks. Washing (if not done within 2 days of application) does not affect the efficacy of Frontline as it reapplies itself with the natural skin oil.

Frontline is also available as a spray which may be more economical in the case of very small animals. We are happy to discuss this with you.

Also recommended is Advantage. Advantage affects the flea's nervous system, killing 98-100% of fleas on dogs and cats within 24 hours. Like Frontline, fleas do not have to bite the pet to be affected by Advantage. The product is applied monthly between a dog's shoulder blades, and to the back of a cat's head. Here, it spreads at the hair root level to completely cover the body within 24 hours.