Parasite prevention (worming, ticks, fleas)
An individual plan of protection against internal and external parasites, chosen to suit the age, weight and lifestyle of the dog or cat.
What it involves
Parasite prevention covers two groups of threats: internal parasites (roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, protozoa such as Giardia) and external ones (ticks, fleas, mange mites, Demodex mites). For each group we choose a different product: a tablet, a spot-on, a collar or a combination of these.
Ticks in the Świdnica area transmit babesiosis, Lyme disease and anaplasmosis; fleas cause allergic dermatitis and transmit tapeworm. Regular protection is cheaper and safer than treating these diseases.
Instead of worming “blindly”, in adult animals we can first examine a faecal sample in our laboratory and give the medicine only when it is needed. In puppies and kittens we carry out worming routinely.
When it is used
We worm puppies and kittens from 2–3 weeks of age, initially every 2 weeks, then monthly up to six months of age. Adult animals: every 3 months or according to the result of a faecal test. Tick protection is needed from March to November, and all year round when winters are mild.
We also plan worming before vaccination, before mating and for a pregnant bitch (using products approved for pregnant animals).
Indications: symptoms that should prompt a visit
- The dog comes back from walks with ticks despite wearing a collar.
- The cat scratches, has scabs on its back and black specks are visible in its coat.
- White, moving segments resembling grains of rice can be seen in the animal's stool or around its anus.
- The puppy has a bloated tummy, a dull coat and vomits worms.
- The dog “scoots” along on its bottom and licks the anal area intensely.
- You are planning a holiday with your dog at the seaside or in the mountains.
- The animal has recurrent diarrhoea with no apparent cause.
Conditions for which we use it in particular
Diagnostics beforehand
For an adult animal without symptoms we suggest a faecal examination by the flotation method (ideally samples collected over 3 consecutive days) and, if Giardia is suspected, an antigen test. We have the result the same day.
If a dog is lethargic, has a fever or dark urine after a tick bite, we immediately carry out a blood count and blood smear to look for babesiosis. Choosing a product requires weighing the animal, because the dose depends on body weight.
How it proceeds
During the visit we ask about lifestyle: whether the dog walks in the woods, whether the cat goes outdoors, whether there are children or other animals at home, and whether there have been reactions to products before. We weigh the animal and examine its skin and coat.
On this basis we suggest a schedule: for example a tablet against ticks and fleas every 1–3 months plus worming every quarter or after a faecal test. We can give the product on the spot and show you how to apply a spot-on. We record the dates in the booklet.
Aftercare
After a tablet or a spot-on the animal can carry on as normal; after a product applied to the skin it should not be bathed, and the application site should not be stroked, for 24–48 hours. After worming, dead parasites may appear in the stool; this is normal.
Please call if vomiting, drooling, tremors or marked redness of the skin occur after the product.
Frequently asked questions
How often should an adult dog be wormed?
As standard, every 3 months. An alternative is a faecal test every 3 months and giving the medication only if the result is positive — a solution particularly recommended for animals that do not go outdoors.
Is a collar enough against ticks?
A good-quality collar works effectively, but it must be fitted correctly and replaced according to the instructions. In dogs that swim a lot or spend time in the woods we often combine it with a tablet.
I found a tick on my dog: what should I do?
Remove it as soon as possible with tweezers or a tick remover, without smearing it with grease. Watch the dog for 2–3 weeks: lethargy, fever, dark urine or lameness is a signal for an urgent visit.
Can products for dogs be given to a cat?
No. Some substances that are safe for dogs (for example permethrin) are fatally toxic to cats. We always choose a product to suit the species.
We manage every case individually. The scope, indications and course described above are indicative; we agree the exact diagnostic and treatment plan during the consultation. This content is for information only and does not replace a veterinary consultation.
Do you have questions about parasite prevention?
Call us or book a consultation. We will set out the diagnostic and treatment plan in writing, before you decide.