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Providing your cat or dog with tick and flea treatment during warm spring and summer months is a no-brainer. Just as your pet is out and about during this time of year, so are pests. Many animal owners stop providing preventative treatment when cold weather comes, however — which is a major mistake, according to veterinarians. For your pet’s health, flea and tick treatment should be administered year-round.

It is true that fleas and ticks are less active in cold weather. That doesn’t mean they disappear completely, however! While fleas can’t survive forever in near-freezing temperatures, they can live for up to five days when it’s as cold as 33 degrees. Ticks also decrease in winter but hang around if temperatures exceed 40 degrees.

pet clinicThough the risks of flea or tick infestation are much smaller when it’s cold, there’s no need to gamble on your pet’s health. Ticks can transmit dangerous illnesses like Lyme disease to your pet. Flea bites, meanwhile, cause your dog or cat itchiness and can quickly take over your home once they’ve infiltrated it. The cost of year-round medicine is well worth avoiding these consequences.

If you aren’t sure about your pet’s tick and flea treatment needs, the best thing to do is talk to your veterinarian. They can offer advice, providing insight on proven products and their application. Your vet can also show you how to check your dog or cat for fleas and ticks. With the appropriate attention, you can ensure your furry family member doesn’t fall prey to pesky parasites.

 

If you have questions regarding tick and flea treatment, the veterinarians of Cat & Dog Hospital of Columbia in Maryland can help. This pet clinic has been serving the local community since 1984, and with services ranging from dentistry to surgery, they can take care of your pet from head to tail. Visit their website to find out more, or call the animal hospital at (410) 995-6880 to schedule an appointment.

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