When it comes to protecting your pet, flea, tick, and dewormer prevention often go hand-in-hand. While they serve different purposes, these treatments are closely connected and play a critical role in keeping your pet safe from parasites—both external and internal.
Fleas and Ticks: External Parasites With Internal Risks
Fleas and ticks are the most common external parasites that affect dogs and cats. While they live on the outside of your pet’s body, the damage they cause can go far deeper.
Fleas
Fleas bite and feed on your pet’s blood, causing itching, hair loss, and even anemia in severe infestations. But beyond the irritation, fleas can also transmit tapeworms—a common internal parasite.
How does this happen? When your pet grooms or scratches and accidentally swallows a flea carrying tapeworm larvae, the larvae are released in your pet’s digestive system, leading to a tapeworm infection.
Ticks
Ticks also feed on your pet’s blood and can transmit dangerous diseases like Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. While ticks don’t cause worms directly, they’re a major part of the overall parasite prevention strategy.
Intestinal Worms: Hidden Threats Inside Your Pet
Worms are internal parasites that can go unnoticed until they cause serious health issues. The most common types in dogs and cats include:
- Roundworms
- Hookworms
- Whipworms
- Tapeworms
These worms live in the intestines and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, lethargy, and even intestinal blockages in severe cases. Puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable.
How Are Fleas, Ticks, and Worms Connected?
The connection lies in the life cycles of parasites. Here’s how flea and tick infestations increase your pet’s risk of internal parasites:
- Fleas can carry tapeworm larvae – If your pet ingests just one infected flea, it can lead to a tapeworm infection.
- Shared environments – Parasite-infested areas can harbor both fleas and worm eggs, increasing the chances of dual infections.
- Weakened immune systems – Pets battling flea or tick infestations are more susceptible to internal parasites due to weakened defenses.
In short, where there are fleas, there’s often a risk of worms, making it critical to treat both external and internal parasites together.
Flea, Tick and Deworming Prevention Options
Fortunately, there are easy, effective ways to flea, tick, and dewormer prevention.
1. Monthly Flea and Tick Preventatives
Available as topicals, chewables, collars, or sprays, these preventatives kill adult fleas and ticks and often prevent eggs from hatching.
Top picks at Hollywood Feed:
- Petlock (Cats & Dogs) – Provides effective, lasting flea and tick prevention for dogs and cats.
- Wondercide Collars (Dogs & Cats) – Long-lasting 8-month protection.
- Elanco Collars, Topicals, & Sprays – Waterproof topical for dogs and cats.
2. Dewormers
Dewormers eliminate internal parasites and may be broad-spectrum (treating multiple worm types) or specific to one kind.
Effective Dewormers Available at Hollywood Feed:
- Safe-Guard (Dogs) – Stir-in mix treats roundworms, whipworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.
- Elanco (Cats) – Targets tapeworms.
- Durvet – Covers whipworms, roundworms, and tapeworms.
How Often Should You Treat Your Pet?
Consistency is key for effective protection. Here’s a basic guideline:
| Treatment Type | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Flea & Tick Preventative | Monthly (or as directed) |
| Dewormer | Every 1–3 months (based on exposure risk) |
Always consult your veterinarian to determine the best routine for your pet’s age, weight, and lifestyle.
Signs Your Pet Might Have Parasites
Signs of Flea or Tick Infestation:
- Excessive scratching or biting at skin
- Visible fleas, flea dirt, or ticks
- Hair loss or irritated skin
Signs of Worms:
- Scooting or licking around the rear
- Worms in stool or vomit
- Pot-bellied appearance (especially in puppies/kittens)
- Weight loss or poor coat condition
Why a Year-Round Parasite Plan Matters
Parasites aren’t just a summer problem. Fleas can survive indoors year-round, and ticks are active in cool seasons, especially in southern climates. Keeping your pet on year-round prevention:
- Prevents painful infestations
- Reduces the risk of tapeworms
- Helps avoid costly vet visits
- Keeps your family safer—some parasites can spread to humans (zoonotic risk)
Recap: Key Takeaways on Flea, Tick and Dewormer Prevention
- Fleas and ticks are external parasites that can cause serious health issues.
- Fleas can transmit tapeworms, making deworming and flea prevention connected.
- Monthly preventatives and routine deworming protect your pet from inside out.
- Combo products can simplify protection against multiple parasites.
- Year-round prevention is the best defense—don’t wait for symptoms to start treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I still need a dewormer if my pet is on flea and tick prevention?
A: Yes. Most flea and tick products don’t treat intestinal parasites. You’ll still need a dewormer or combo product to cover internal parasites.
Q: How often should I deworm my dog or cat?
A: Every 1–3 months, depending on your pet’s exposure and risk level. Always consult your vet for the right schedule.
Q: Can I get rid of worms just by treating fleas?
A: No. Treating fleas helps prevent tapeworms but won’t kill worms already present. You need a dewormer for that.
Q: Are over-the-counter dewormers safe?
A: Many OTC products are safe and effective, especially those sold at trusted retailers like Hollywood Feed. Be sure to follow label instructions carefully.
Q: Can indoor pets get worms or fleas?
A: Yes. Fleas can enter your home on clothes or other pets, and worm eggs can be tracked indoors. Indoor pets still need protection.
Protect your pet inside and out—explore Hollywood Feed’s wide selection of flea and tick treatments, dewormers, and combo solutions today. Stop by your local store or shop online for expert advice and trusted brands!
