Flea and tick treatment: a simple guide for UK pet owners
Fleas and ticks are around all year in the UK, thanks to central heating indoors and milder winters outside. Regular treatment keeps your pet comfortable and stops an infestation from taking hold in your home.
Spot-on treatments
A spot-on is a small pipette applied to the skin at the back of the neck. Most protect for around a month. Always choose the pack for your pet's weight band and species, and never use a dog product on a cat.
Tablets
Some flea tablets act fast to kill adult fleas within hours, which is useful if you spot fleas and need quick relief. Others give longer protection. Check the pack for how long each dose lasts.
Treating your home
Most of a flea population lives in carpets, bedding and furniture rather than on your pet. A household flea spray, plus washing bedding on a hot cycle, breaks the life cycle.
Checking for ticks
After walks in long grass or woodland, run your hands over your dog, especially around the ears, face, legs and belly. If you find a tick, remove it with a tick remover by twisting gently, rather than pulling.
Our advice
- Treat every pet in the household at the same time.
- Weigh your pet before buying so you choose the right dose.
- Read the label and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- If your pet is pregnant, very young, elderly or unwell, ask your vet first.
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