Parasite Prevention for Dogs and Cats

Dogs and cats are affected by a number of different parasites that can affect their health and comfort. Talk to a veterinarian to determine which parasite medications are best for your pet’s lifestyle and needs.

Consult a Veterinarian

Health Risks to Your Pet

Fleas

Lyme and other Tick-Borne Diseases

Heartworm Disease

Intestinal Worms

How does it spread?

Pet-to-pet, or contaminated environments

Tick bites

Mosquito bites

Ingesting parasite eggs or spores

What are the risks?

  • Itching and Discomfort

  • Anemia (blood loss)

  • May spread Tapeworm Infections

  • Painful and Swollen Joints

  • Nervous Damage System

  • Kidney Damage

  • Cough

  • Difficulty Breathing

  • Heart Failure

How do I prevent it?

  • Flea and tick medication

  • Tick Medication Vaccination

  • Blood Test

  • Heartworm Medication

  • Blood Test

  • Deworming Medication

  • Fecal Test

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Factors to Consider When Choosing Treatment

Lifestyle

Your pets lifestyle is a strong determinant of their risk for getting fleas, ticks or other parasites. If they spend a lot of time outdoors, time around other pets or time in tall grass or wooded areas , their risk is much higher. But if you have an indoor cat, or an un-adventurous chihuahua, then it is less likely they will contract a parasite.

Risk Tolerance

Pet-parents should consider the risk they are willing to absorb. With below zero temperatures from November to February in Canada, the odds of contracting a parasite go down, but do not go to zero. Some pet-parents prefer to focus prevention some parasites more than others too, depending on their specific circumstances.

Budget

The price of medication and treatments highly vary based on your pet’s size and level of need. It’s recommended to budget a few hundred dollars per year if you are looking for the top of the line options. None of these treatments are mandatory, but consider your options with a professional to determine what you can manage.

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Learn More About Your Options

Lyme Disease & Your Pet

Learn how and when lyme disease is a risk to your pet, including a short guide to how you can prevent it at home and with veterinary intervention. 

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Parasite Medication For Canada

Does your pet really need parasite medication all-year? Especially in harsh Canadian winters? Learn about when parasites become a risk to your pet and how you can prevent it cost-effectively.

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Heartworm Testing Questions

Does your dog need a heartworm test before starting preventive medication? Learn about heartworm testing and how it can reduce the health risks to your pet.

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Request an Online or In-Person Consultation

Want to speak about parasite risk and prevention with a vet? Contact us and we’d be happy to help you make an informed decision for you and your pet.