Flea, Tick & Worm Prevention: A Year‑Round Calendar

Parasites don’t take holidays—and in the UK, prevention is a year‑round job. Use this simple calendar as a reminder, then ask us for a plan tailored to your pet.

What are we preventing?

• Fleas: can trigger itching, allergies, and transmit tapeworm.

• Ticks: can carry pathogens; prompt removal is important.

• Worms: roundworms and tapeworms are most common; some pose human health risks.

Choosing products

• Spot‑ons: convenient monthly dosing for many pets.

• Tablets/chews: useful if your pet swims/bathes frequently.

• Collars: long‑duration options exist for certain parasites.

• Bundles: some products cover multiple parasites. We’ll recommend based on your pet’s risks.

Year‑round calendar (typical)

• Dogs:

  • Flea/tick: usually monthly (some products vary—ask us).

  • Worming: typically every 1–3 months depending on lifestyle and product.

• Cats:

  • Flea/tick: usually monthly.

  • Worming: typically every 1–3 months; hunters may need more frequent coverage.

Seasonal notes

• Spring–Summer: ticks and fleas peak; check pets after countryside walks, tall grass, or deer areas.

• Autumn: flea populations can surge when central heating comes on.

• Winter: indoor fleas persist; continue prevention.

Home hygiene tips

• Wash pet bedding hot and regularly.

• Vacuum carpets, skirting boards, and soft furnishings (flea eggs/larvae like to hide).

• Treat all pets in the household—don’t leave gaps.

When to see a vet

• Persistent scratching, visible fleas or “flea dirt,” pale gums (possible anaemia), or persistent diarrhoea/ pot‑belly in pups/kittens (possible worms).

• If a tick is attached for >24–48 hours or you’re unsure how to remove it safely.

SigmaVet’s prevention plans

• We’ll tailor choices to your pet (indoor/outdoor, swimmers, hunting cats, multi‑pet households).

• Text/email reminders so you don’t miss a month.

• Combine with vaccination reminders and health checks for convenience.