Whether you live in the city or the country, your pets are potentially going to be exposed to fleas and ticks. These insects can carry diseases that significantly affect an animal's quality of life, so veterinarians recommend pet owners prevent bites before they happen. Below, Middlefield Veterinary Clinic in Middlefield, OH, shares three types of flea and tick prevention to consider using on your furry pals.

3 Types of Flea & Tick Prevention 

1. Topical

Many pet owners prefer topical flea and tick prevention because it’s easy to apply. The medicine comes in liquid form in a small tube, so you can apply it to the back of the neck right next to the skin. The dog or cat absorbs the medicine into the blood stream, which then kills fleas and ticks. Just make sure you follow the directions and veterinarian tips on how long to wait before your dog or cat is exposed to water, as this can mitigate the effects of the preventative medication.

2. Oral

If you don’t want to avoid petting your furry friend on the back of the neck for a few days after applying topical preventative meds, consider the oral option instead. These pills act similarly to the topical medicine since they are absorbed by the animal’s blood stream and prevent bugs from biting. You can also find oral flea and tick prevention medicines that prevent heartworm disease and parasites, providing a double whammy of medicine.  

3. Collar

Animals that don’t have sensitive skin could be excellent candidates for flea and tick prevention collars. Ask your vet if this is the best option for your cat or dog. Collars are inexpensive and can provide insect protection for many weeks, but they have high chemical amounts, so make sure your vet approves before using one.

Consider the many benefits of each option, and then speak with your vet about which prevention products they recommend. Call Middlefield Veterinary Clinic at (440) 632-9181, or visit the website to learn about their veterinary services and explore the different locations.