Fleas and ticks are a constant nuisance animals and to humans.  Their bites can be painful and itchy, they can transmit diseases, and cause anemia.  Ticks and fleas bite and infect people as well as animals so it is very important to keep your pets free from these parasites.  Many topical flea and tick medications are available and should be applied every month.  Many people mistakenly believe that it is not necessary to use flea and tick medications during the winter months, but since the winters in Virginia are generally mild, tick and fleas can be found almost all year round.  Fleas can lay up to 30 eggs per day and hence infest your home in just a few days.  Ticks can drop off your pets and bite you when they are ready to feed again.  A simple application every month will virtually eliminate these occurrences.

Click TICKS or FLEAS for more information on their life cycle and diseases. 

All of the following are topical solutions.  Apply 1 dose per month directly to the skin between shoulder blades.  Let air dry and wash hands after applying medication.  If there is too much liquid for one spot, you may apply in several spots.  Just be sure to apply the medication in spots where your dog or cat cannot lick.  Other medications for fleas and ticks are available but only the ones available at our hospital are mentioned below.  The type of medication you choose will depend on how much time your pet spends outside, flea and tick population in your area, and other factors.  We will be more than happy to help you pick the right type of medication for your pet. 

For Cats:
Revolution Protects against fleas, heartworm disease, and controls hookworms, roundworms, and ear mites.  Use for cats 5.1lbs to 15lbs in weight and at least 8 weeks of age. 

Frontline Plus protects against fleas, ticks and chewing lice.  Use for cats 8 weeks and older. 

For Dogs:
Advantix
Protects against fleas, ticks, mosquitoes.  Use for all dogs 7 weeks and older. 

Frontline Plus
Protects against fleas, ticks, and chewing lice.  Use for dogs 8 weeks and older. 

Revolution
Protects against fleas, heartworm disease, and controls ear mites, sarcoptic mange, intestinal hookworms, and roundworm infections in cats. Controls tick infestations in dogs.