CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW)

Flea and tick season is upon us, and it’s time to get proactive about your pet’s pest prevention.

But buyer beware – many of the traditionally recommended preventatives come with warning labels. That’s according to Kim, owner and founder of Natural Pet Essentials.  According to one product’s labeling, “the most commonly reported adverse reactions include itching, diarrhea, vomiting, decreased appetite, elevated ALT, lethargy, and weight loss.” This product and other common brands land themselves in a class of drugs identified by the FDA as isoxazoline and are, in fact, accompanied by an FDA warning.

Kim says pet owners should be watchful for neurologic adverse reactions, including muscle tremors, ataxia, and seizures. Unfortunately, she says that once these pesticides enter your pet’s bloodstream, they remain there for extended periods of time, leaving pet parents to worry about the potential short- and long-term effects.

Flea and tick collars continue to be another popular choice, as well. One such collar company settled a $15 million dollar lawsuit earlier this month, offering reparations for pets who have died or developed health issues after using this collar. According to Investigate Midwest and USA Today, as of October 3, 2022, this popular collar is the “most complained about product in the history of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.”

Fortunately for pet lovers, Kim says there are many non-chemical repellent options available in today’s market. Natural sprays, essential oil-based collars, and herbal powders are just a few. Keeping your pet healthy with a high quality diet, as well as well groomed and clean, will also make them less desirable to pests. And, of course, maintaining the property immediately surrounding your home, keeping grass short, and doing daily bug checks on your pet(s) will offer the best chances for success.

As with all products for your pet, researching brands is strongly recommended. Because we know a flea infestation can lead to health concerns, and ticks carry a host of diseases, it is important to stay vigilant in your pest prevention protocol and check in with your veterinarian every six months for routine fecal analysis and bloodwork to check for tick borne diseases.

If your pet becomes ill or is showing signs of distress after utilizing any medications or natural remedies, seek veterinary advice.