When does a tick tablet start working in dogs? - briefly
Oral tick medication typically begins killing attached ticks within 24 hours, achieving full efficacy by 48 hours after the dose. The exact onset may vary slightly among products and individual dogs.
When does a tick tablet start working in dogs? - in detail
Oral tick‑control tablets for dogs are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and reach effective plasma concentrations within a few hours. Most products in the isoxazoline class (e.g., afoxolaner, fluralaner, sarolaner, lotilaner) begin to kill attached ticks approximately 8 – 12 hours after the dose is swallowed; some formulations show activity as early as 4 hours. The rapid onset results from swift absorption, with peak concentrations typically occurring 2 – 4 hours post‑administration.
Factors influencing the exact timing include:
- Product formulation – each active ingredient has a specific absorption rate.
- Dog’s body weight and health – correct dosing ensures adequate plasma levels.
- Presence of food – feeding the tablet with a meal enhances bioavailability.
- Tick species – certain species may be killed slightly faster or slower.
After the initial kill, systemic protection persists for the labeled interval, generally 30 days for most monthly tablets and up to 12 weeks for long‑acting products. New ticks that attach within this period are eliminated before they can transmit disease.
Practical verification:
- Inspect the dog 24 hours after dosing; most dead ticks will be visible on the coat or in the environment.
- For heavily infested animals, re‑examination at 48 hours confirms complete eradication.
- Observe for any adverse reactions; most isoxazolines are well tolerated, but monitoring is advised during the first dose.
In summary, oral tick tablets start to exert lethal effects on existing infestations within 4 – 12 hours, reaching full efficacy by the end of the first day, and they maintain protective activity for the full dosing interval when administered according to label instructions.