How do tick drops work on a dog's neck? - briefly
Tick drops are topical acaricides applied to the skin at the base of the neck, where they spread through the animal’s sebum to kill existing ticks and deter new ones. The active compounds are absorbed systemically, offering protection for several weeks.
How do tick drops work on a dog's neck? - in detail
Tick‑on products for canines are liquid formulations applied to a small area of skin on the neck, typically at the base of the skull. The active ingredient—often a synthetic pyrethroid, isoxazoline, or organophosphate—penetrates the stratum corneum within minutes. Once absorbed, the compound spreads via the lipid matrix of the epidermis and enters the peripheral circulation, reaching systemic levels that remain therapeutic for several weeks.
The mechanism of action varies by chemical class:
- Pyrethroids disrupt voltage‑gated sodium channels in arthropod nerve membranes, causing rapid paralysis and death of attached ticks.
- Isoxazolins block ligand‑gated chloride channels (GABA‑ and glutamate‑gated), leading to uncontrolled neuronal firing and mortality.
- Organophosphates inhibit acetylcholinesterase, resulting in accumulation of acetylcholine and fatal overstimulation of the nervous system.
Systemic distribution ensures that any tick that contacts the host—whether on the neck, back, or limbs—receives a lethal dose after a brief attachment period. Most formulations achieve peak plasma concentration within 24–48 hours, maintaining effective concentrations for 21–35 days depending on the product’s pharmacokinetic profile.
Application guidelines:
- Part the fur to expose a 2–3 cm² area of skin.
- Dispense the recommended dose directly onto the skin, avoiding the eyes, mouth, and nasal passages.
- Allow the liquid to dry before the dog resumes normal activity; the drying period typically lasts 5–10 minutes.
Safety considerations include:
- Use only products labeled for the specific weight range of the animal.
- Avoid concurrent administration of other ectoparasitic agents containing overlapping active ingredients to prevent additive toxicity.
- Monitor for signs of adverse reactions such as excessive salivation, tremors, or skin irritation; discontinue use and consult a veterinarian if symptoms appear.
Resistance management recommends rotating between different chemical classes annually, provided that efficacy data support the switch. This practice reduces selective pressure on tick populations and prolongs the usefulness of existing spot‑on treatments.
Overall, tick‑on liquids applied to the cervical region function by rapid cutaneous absorption, systemic dissemination, and targeted neurotoxic action against ectoparasites, offering reliable protection for several weeks after a single dose.