Owning a pet means their life is entwined with yours. They sleep on our beds, cuddle up with us on the couch, and sit by watching hopefully as we cook dinner every night. As lovely as this close relationship is, it makes it all the more important that we remain vigilant about protecting our pets (and ourselves) from parasites. There are several common parasites in Melbourne which can cause pain, discomfort, and lead to more serious illnesses in pets if left untreated.

DOGS and PUPPIES

Intestinal worms

  • For young puppies, intestinal worm treatments need to be given every 2 weeks until the puppy is 12 weeks old.
  • For puppies between 12 weeks and six months old, the treatment needs to be administered monthly.
  • Treating intestinal worms in adult dogs (over six months old) is quick and easy with a treatment given every three months.

Flea control

We recommend combatting fleas with Nexgard – a monthly chew. This treatment option has the added benefit of tick prevention as well.

Topical flea control treatments from the Advantage range is another convenient way to control these pesky insects.

Heartworm

Heartworm can have devastating health consequences for pets so we are extremely lucky that it isn’t common in Melbourne. Nonetheless, we recommend an annual heartworm prevention injection to ensure your pet remains protected all year round.

Ticks

We recommend using the Nexgard chew monthly to protect your dog from the paralysis tick as it can be used safely in conjunction with other parasite preventatives such as Advocate and Sentinel. In some instances, other prevention solutions such as Advantix, Bravecto or Serasto collars may be more effective depending on your pet’s health and lifestyle.

CATS and KITTENS

Intestinal worms

  • For kittens, intestinal worm treatment needs to be given every 2 weeks until it reaches 12 weeks of age, and then monthly until the kitten is six months old.
  • Cats over six months old only need to be treated for intestinal worms once every three months.
  • For pet owners using the Advocate topical treatments for flea prevention, a tapeworm treatment once every three months is all that is required.
  • Indoor cats which are fed a commercial diet may not need such frequent intestinal worm treatment, the right treatment regime can be determined in consultation with your vet.

Fleas

Our clinic veterinarians generally recommend the use of monthly topical flea preventatives for both cats and kittens. The Advantage and Advocate systems are the two we most commonly recommend.

Heartworm

Melbourne cat owners can breathe a sigh of relief! Heartworm treatment is not necessary for cats in the Melbourne area.

Ticks

There is only one product which can be used to prevent the paralysis tick in cats and it is the Frontline Plus Spray which needs to be applied once every three weeks.

Pet Care

  • There are three reasons why we recommend a full consultation and health check for every pet at the time of vaccination:
    Read More >
  • If we surveyed pet owners about potential allergy symptoms in dogs and cats, most would list signs such as recurrent ear infections, generalised itchiness, paw licking, or tummy upset.
    Read More >
  • Whilst most owners understand the impact of their pet's oral health on their general health and quality of life, many may still need clarification on the practical ways to achieve excellent pet dental hygiene.
    Read More >

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