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Fleas and ticks are common parasites in New Zealand and can cause much more than an itchy pet.
Fleas can cause intense irritation, skin infections and flea allergy dermatitis, while heavy infestations can cause anaemia, particularly in young, small or vulnerable animals. Ticks can attach to dogs, cats and other pets after they have been outside, particularly around grass, scrub and bush.
The good news? Effective parasite control is relatively simple when you know what to look for and, most importantly, treat all the pets in your household appropriately.
One of the biggest misunderstandings about fleas is that they are simply a problem on your dog or cat.
In reality, only a small proportion of the flea population is made up of adult fleas living on your pet. The majority of the flea life cycle — including eggs and larvae — is found in the environment.
This means that if you see a flea on your pet, there may already be many more developing in your home.
Fleas can survive in carpets, bedding, furniture, cracks in flooring and outdoor areas. They can also remain dormant and emerge when conditions are right.
This is why treating your pet once and then stopping when you no longer see fleas often doesn’t solve the problem.
If you have discovered fleas on one animal, it’s important to consider every animal in the household.
This includes:
Treating only the itchy dog while leaving the cat untreated, for example, can allow fleas to continue their life cycle and reinfest your home.
However, this does not mean using the same flea treatment on every animal.
Different species have very different sensitivities to parasite treatments.
This is particularly important for rabbit owners.
Never assume that a flea product that is safe for your dog or cat is safe for your rabbit.
Rabbits can be extremely sensitive to certain medications and parasite treatments. Some products can cause serious poisoning and may be fatal.
Rabbit flea treatment should only be given when recommended by your veterinarian, using a product and dose that is appropriate for rabbits. Flea collars should never be used on rabbits.
If you have a rabbit and another pet in the household has fleas, let your veterinary team know. We can help you work out a safe parasite-control plan for everyone.
When there is an established flea infestation, treating your pet is only part of the solution.
You may also need to:
Don’t be discouraged if you see an occasional flea after starting treatment. Newly emerging adult fleas can continue to appear from the environment while you are breaking the flea life cycle.
The important thing is to keep treating your pets consistently and deal with the environmental stages as well.
Some pets are particularly sensitive to flea saliva.
This is called flea allergy dermatitis, and these pets can become incredibly itchy from just a small number of flea bites.
You may notice:
If your pet is persistently itchy, don’t assume fleas are the only possible cause. Allergies, mites, skin infections and other conditions can cause very similar signs.
Your vet can help determine what’s actually causing the problem.
Ticks are present in New Zealand and can attach to pets that spend time outdoors, particularly around vegetation, long grass and bush.
Regularly checking your pet is a good habit, especially after outdoor adventures.
Run your hands over your pet’s body and check areas such as:
If you find an attached tick and are unsure how to remove it safely, contact your veterinary team for advice.
For pets that are regularly exposed to ticks, we can also discuss whether preventative tick treatment is appropriate for their lifestyle.
One of the most effective approaches to parasite control is prevention rather than waiting until you have a problem.
Fleas can be present year-round in New Zealand, although they tend to become more noticeable during warmer weather.
Your pet’s parasite prevention plan should take into account:
Some products provide protection for different lengths of time, so it’s important to follow the instructions for the specific product you are using.
More flea treatment isn’t better flea treatment.
Never double up products unless your veterinarian has specifically advised you to do so, and always follow the dosing instructions carefully.
This is particularly important in multi-pet households where you may have a combination of dogs, cats and rabbits.
Never use a dog flea treatment on a cat or rabbit unless your veterinarian has confirmed that it is safe.
Cats are particularly vulnerable to certain ingredients found in dog parasite products, while rabbits can also have serious reactions to medications that are safe in other species.
If you are unsure whether a product is safe for your pet, don’t use it until you’ve checked with your veterinary team.
Think of parasite control as a household routine rather than a one-off treatment.
1. Check all your pets regularly.
Look for fleas, flea dirt, ticks, itching, hair loss or changes to the skin.
2. Treat every exposed pet appropriately.
Dogs, cats and rabbits may all need different products.
3. Stay consistent.
Follow the recommended treatment interval for your chosen product rather than waiting until you see fleas.
4. Don’t forget your home.
If you have an established flea infestation, environmental control is an important part of breaking the flea life cycle.
5. Ask us if you’re unsure.
There are lots of parasite products available, and choosing the right one can feel confusing. Our veterinary team can help you choose a safe and effective option for your individual pets.
Fleas and ticks are much easier to prevent than to deal with once they’ve established themselves.
And if you have a multi-pet household, remember the golden rule:
Treat everyone — but treat everyone appropriately.
If your pet is due for parasite treatment, you’ve found fleas or ticks, or you’re simply not sure whether your current prevention is right for your family, talk to the Vets North team. We’re happy to help you put together a parasite-control plan that works for your pets and your lifestyle.
For more information about safe parasite prevention for your dog, cat or rabbit, speak to your local Vets North veterinary team.
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