Flea & Tick Prevention
for Dogs and Cats

Fleas and ticks are more than just a seasonal nuisance. These parasites can cause serious discomfort, skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even spread diseases that affect both pets and people.

At Greater Saint John Veterinary Wellness & Urgent Care, we help pet owners choose flea and tick prevention based on their pet’s lifestyle, health, and daily environment. Whether your dog hikes local trails or your cat mostly stays indoors, prevention still matters.

Many pet owners are surprised to learn that fleas and ticks can remain active longer than expected, especially during mild seasons.

Why Flea & Tick Prevention Matters

Ticks in New Brunswick can carry illnesses such as Lyme disease, while fleas may lead to:

• Severe itching and scratching
• Skin infections
• Hair loss
• Allergic dermatitis
• Tapeworm transmission

Some pets are extremely sensitive to flea bites and can develop major skin irritation from only a small number of fleas.

Consistent prevention helps reduce these risks and keeps your pet more comfortable throughout the year.

Prevention Options for Pets

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to parasite prevention. We’ll help recommend products based on your pet’s:

• Age
• Weight
• Medical history
• Lifestyle
• Exposure risk

Options may include:

• Monthly oral medications
• Topical flea and tick products
• Combination parasite prevention
• Seasonal or year-round protection plans

Our team can also help answer questions about product safety, effectiveness, and what may work best for multi-pet households.

Signs Your Pet May Have Fleas or Ticks

Common signs include:

• Excessive scratching or licking
• Hair loss
• Red or irritated skin
• Scabs or hot spots
• Visible fleas or ticks
• Restlessness or discomfort

Sometimes pets show very subtle signs at first, especially cats, who tend to groom themselves frequently.

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