The Importance of Flea and Tick Prevention

 

Fleas and ticks are more than just a nuisance; they can pose significant health risks to pets and even humans.

• Fleas: Fleas can cause severe itching and discomfort, leading to skin infections and hair loss. Some pets can develop Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD), a serious allergic reaction to flea saliva that can cause extreme skin irritation. Fleas can also transmit tapeworms if ingested and, in severe cases, cause anemia, especially in young puppies and kittens.

• Ticks: Ticks can transmit serious, sometimes fatal, diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. These diseases can cause fever, lameness, and severe organ damage. Preventing ticks from biting is the best way to prevent these illnesses.

Because flea and tick populations can be active year-round, especially in warmer climates, continuous prevention is recommended.

 

What is Bravecto?

 

Bravecto is a popular, prescription-only medication used for the treatment and prevention of flea and tick infestations in both dogs and cats. It is a member of a class of drugs called isoxazolines.

 

Types of Bravecto

 

Bravecto comes in different formulations for different species and needs:

• Bravecto Chews for Dogs: A flavored chewable tablet that provides 12 weeks (3 months) of protection against fleas and multiple types of ticks. It's recommended to be given with a meal to improve absorption. There is also a Bravecto 1-Month Chew for puppies.

• Bravecto Topical Solution for Cats: A liquid applied to the skin that provides 12 weeks of protection.

Key Benefits of Bravecto

 

• Long-Lasting Efficacy: The primary benefit of Bravecto is its long duration of action (up to 12 weeks for most formulations), which is much longer than monthly preventives. This makes it easier for owners to remember dosing and helps avoid protection gaps.

• Kills Parasites Quickly: Bravecto starts killing fleas within hours of administration, providing rapid relief for infested pets and breaking the flea life cycle before fleas can lay eggs.

• Prevents Flea Infestations: By consistently killing fleas, Bravecto prevents new infestations from developing in the home environment.

• Oral vs. Topical: For dog owners, the chewable tablet offers the benefit of no messy application and no need to worry about waiting to pet or bathe the dog after treatment.