Keeping dogs and cats protected from external parasites - fleas, ticks, mites, lice, mosquitoes, for example - is important for their health, well-being and quality of life and also for the home hygiene and for the health of the entire family. Parasites cause discomfort to animals, can cause skin lesions, allergies and other problems, and also transmit diseases. Some external parasites of animals also affect people. Advice on deworming and other preventive measures against external parasites is part of regular monitoring of health and well-being of companion animals carried out by veterinarians. However, preventing external parasites does not only involve following the deworming program with the medications prescribed by the veterinarian. It means following all the advice of the control strategy, which includes measures related to animals and the environment and active, regular and attentive participation of those responsible for the animals. Caring for animals In most cases, preventing external parasite infestations involves periodic use of medications to deworm animals. There are many products on the market for preventing external parasite infestations, containing various active ingredients and in different forms, such as shampoos, powders, solutions for spraying or local application, collars, among others. The veterinarian who looks after the animal will plan the appropriate deworming program. In addition to following the prescribed deworming program with medications, hygiene and monitoring are essential. For example, cleaning and brushing the fur should be part of routine care and can help identify the presence of external parasites. These are operations that must be carried out regularly, during which the skin and coat of the animals must be observed carefully, looking for changes, external parasites or even traces of their presence. Paying attention to changes in pet behavior can also help you identify infestations, such as if the pet scratches or licks itself more than usual, or if it is more restless or irritable. Taking care of the environment Taking care of the environment involves keeping places clean and eliminating possible sources of infestation. This mainly involves cleaning practices and care, both inside and outside the home, which should be intensified by all families with pets, especially in geographic regions and at times when environmental conditions are more favorable to external parasites, when there is a greater likelihood of contact with other animals and greater access to the outdoors. In addition to the usual cleaning practices in any home that are reinforced when there are animals, beds and other places where animals rest and use them should be aired, vacuumed and cleaned frequently. In higher-risk situations, the use of specific environmental control products is sometimes recommended, but this should always be done following the advice of professionals. Depending on the most important external parasites in each region or location, more specific measures can be taken to reduce the risk of infestation, such as eliminating or treating stagnant water when there are mosquito problems. If there is suspicion If you suspect an external parasite infestation, contact your veterinarian , who will be able to diagnose the problem and its severity, indicate the most appropriate and safe products for your animal, and teach you how to prevent reinfestations and keep your animals protected. In this way, you can also protect your home and your entire family. Our Health Guide contents have an information purpose, are intended for the general public and may not be up to date. They do not replace the information, opinion and individual advice of a doctor or other healthcare professional in their areas of expertise.
