What is the treatment called for fleas and ticks on dogs? - briefly
The standard therapy for canine flea and tick control is an ectoparasiticide administered as a topical solution, oral tablet, or collar. Common products include «Bravecto», «NexGard», «Frontline» and «Seresto».
What is the treatment called for fleas and ticks on dogs? - in detail
Flea‑and‑tick control for canines is provided by a range of veterinary‑approved products commonly referred to as ectoparasiticides. These formulations are classified by route of administration and active ingredient.
Topical spot‑on solutions are applied directly to the skin at the base of the neck. Typical actives include fipronil, imidacloprid combined with permethrin, or selamectin. One dose delivers protection for 30 days, eliminating adult fleas, killing ticks before attachment, and interrupting the life cycle of immature stages.
Oral chewable tablets contain systemic agents such as afoxolaner, fluralaner, sarolaner, or milbemycin oxime. After ingestion, the compound circulates in the bloodstream; feeding parasites ingest the drug and die. Duration of efficacy ranges from one month (afoxolaner) to twelve months (fluralaner). Oral products are useful for dogs that swim frequently or have thick coats that may impede topical absorption.
Collars impregnated with imidacloprid and flumethrin release active ingredients continuously over eight weeks. The device provides a steady low‑dose exposure, reducing flea infestations and preventing tick attachment.
Sprays and shampoos deliver a rapid kill effect on contact. Ingredients such as pyrethrins or permethrin act within minutes, but protection lasts only a few hours and therefore they serve as adjuncts to longer‑acting treatments.
Key considerations when selecting an ectoparasiticide:
- Species‑specific safety: permethrin is toxic to cats; products must be labeled for canine use only.
- Age and weight restrictions: many oral tablets require a minimum weight of 2 kg and a minimum age of 8 weeks.
- Resistance management: rotating active ingredients or combining modalities helps delay development of resistant flea populations.
- Prescription status: some agents (e.g., fluralaner) require veterinary authorization, ensuring proper health assessment before use.
Proper administration follows the product’s dosing chart, typically based on body weight. Failure to adhere to the recommended interval can allow re‑infestation and diminish efficacy. Monitoring for adverse reactions—such as transient skin irritation, gastrointestinal upset, or neurological signs—is essential; any observed effects should prompt immediate veterinary consultation.