As any pet owner can attest, living with an animal means that your life is entwined with theirs. Whilst it’s lovely to have such a close relationship with your pet, it means that you become vulnerable to the same parasites that affect your pet. In this way, parasite protection treatments play a crucial role in preserving the health of both you and your pet.
If you’re unsure how to best protect your pet from parasites, don’t worry! Vets on Balwyn have years of experience when it comes to helping Melbourne pet owners find the right parasite prevention solution for their pet. On this page, you’ll find our recommendations on parasite prevention, although we recommend consulting with one of our veterinarians to determine the best course of treatment for your pet.
DOGS and PUPPIES
Intestinal worms
- For puppies between 2-12 weeks, worm treatments need to be administered once a fortnight
- For puppies between 12 weeks and 6 months old, worm treatments need to be administered once a month
- For adult dogs over 6 months of age, worm treatments need to be administered once every three months.
Flea control
The Bravecto chew administered once every three months or topical 6 monthly is highly effective when it comes to flea prevention and has the added benefit of protecting your dog from ticks.
Another convenient and effective way to control fleas is with topical treatments. Vets on Balwyn recommend the Advantage range.
Heartworm
Although uncommon in the Melbourne area, we recommend bringing your pet in for an annual heartworm prevention injection to protect your pet from the devastating health consequences associated with this parasite.
Ticks
The Bravecto chew (administered once every three months) which we recommend for flea prevention has the added benefit of protecting your dog from the paralysis tick.
CATS and KITTENS
Intestinal worms
- For kittens between 2-12 weeks of age, intestinal worm treatments need to be administered fortnightly
- For kittens between 12 weeks and 6 months, intestinal worm treatments need to be administered once a month
- Adult cats over 6 months need to be treated for intestinal worms once every three months
- Cat owners who use the Advocate topical treatment system for flea prevention only require a tapeworm treatment once every three months
- Indoor cats on a commercial diet may not need to be treated at the same frequency as other animals. Consult with your vet to determine the right treatment regime for your pet.
Fleas
Vets on Balwyn recommend using monthly topical flea preventatives for cats and kittens. The Advantage and Advocate systems are both convenient and effective treatment options.
Heartworm
Heartworm treatment is unnecessary for cats living in the Melbourne area.
Ticks
We advise using Felpreva for paralysis tick prevention.
