Pets that spend time outdoors can bring ticks and fleas home, and some ticks carry diseases that affect both animals and people. The CDC recommends checking your pets for ticks daily, especially after time outside. Your grooming routine is the perfect moment to do it.
Where ticks like to hide
According to the CDC, check these spots carefully:
- In and around the ears
- Around the eyelids
- Under the collar
- Under the front and back legs
- Between the toes
- Around the tail
Signs of fleas
The ASPCA suggests looking for "flea dirt": tiny black specks of dried blood in the coat. Brushing over a light-colored towel makes them easier to spot.
A grooming routine that doubles as a health check
- Brush or glove your pet in good light, section by section.
- Run your fingers through the coat, feeling for small bumps.
- Check the CDC hot spots above.
- If you find a tick, remove it right away (see video below).
- Wash your hands when you're done.
Watch: how to remove a tick
Video: "How to remove a tick" by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (YouTube). Ask your vet if you're unsure about removing a tick from your pet.
Prevention is a vet conversation
- Ask your veterinarian which tick and flea preventives suit your pet and which tick-borne diseases are common where you live (CDC).
- Never use dog tick products on cats without checking with your vet. Cats are very sensitive to many chemicals (CDC).
- Watch for changes in behavior or appetite after a tick bite. Symptoms can take 1 to 3 weeks or longer to appear.
Make daily checks easy
Our slicker brush and grooming glove make a quick daily once-over something your pet looks forward to.
See the Groom & Clean KitSources
This article is general information only and isn't a substitute for advice from your doctor or veterinarian.