The Importance of Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention for Dogs and Cats in Maize, KS
Pets are part of our families, and preventing fleas, ticks, heartworms, and other parasites is essential for their health. Both ectoparasites (external parasites) and endoparasites (internal parasites) can affect your dog or cat at some point. See below for information about common pet parasites, the conditions they can cause, and tips to protect your pet from infestations.
If you need parasite preventatives for your pet, call (316) 722-6464 or schedule an appointment!
Fleas and Ticks (Ectoparasites)
Fleas and ticks are extremely common ectoparasites that can affect dogs, cats, and other mammals. They transmit vector-borne diseases to humans and pets, such as:
- Bartonella (cat scratch disease)
- Lyme
- Anaplasmosis
- Ehrlichia
- Rocky Mountain Spotted fever
They can also cause flea allergy dermatitis, leading to itchy, inflamed skin.
Fleas and ticks are extremely common ectoparasites that can affect dogs, cats, and other mammals. They transmit vector-borne diseases to humans and pets, such as:
- Bartonella (cat scratch disease)
- Lyme
- Anaplasmosis
- Ehrlichia
- Rocky Mountain Spotted fever
They can also cause flea allergy dermatitis, leading to itchy, inflamed skin.
Common Endoparasites in Pets
Endoparasites are an invisible threat to our pets and typically include:
- Roundworms (most prevalent)
- Hookworms
- Whipworms
- Tapeworms
Heartworm in Dogs and Cats: A Serious Endoparasite
Heartworm disease develops slowly, over several months, making it especially dangerous for dogs and cats. Heartworm disease can be fatal, especially in cats, for whom there is no available treatment.
About heartworm infections:
- They result from pets being bitten by infected mosquitos.
- Larvae travel to the heart and develop into adults, causing heart failure if untreated.
- Early stages may be asymptomatic; later stages can include cough and exercise intolerance in dogs, and vomiting and coughing in cats.
- Treatment is risky and costly.
Tips to Protect Your Dog and Cat from Parasites
It’s essential to keep dogs and cats on parasite prevention year-round to reduce the risk of heartworm disease, intestinal parasites, and tick-transmitted diseases.
Give Preventive Medications Year-Round
- Use veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventatives regularly.
- Administer an injectable, once a year prevention for heartworms or a monthly heartworm preventative.
Maintain Clean Living Environments
- Wash your pet's bedding and vacuum their living areas frequently to remove eggs and larvae.
- Keep your yard clean and free of tall grass and standing water, which can harbor parasites.
Practice Good Hygiene
- Brush your pets regularly to check for fleas, ticks, and other external parasites.
- Bathe your pets with anti-parasitic shampoos as recommended by your vet.
Control Outdoor Exposure
- Keep your pets on a leash or in a fenced area to reduce their exposure to environments where they might pick up parasites.
- Prevent contact with wild animals that may carry parasites.
For more information about fleas, ticks, and heartworms, visit petsandparasites.org, and consult with our friendly staff!