What Kills Ticks & Fleas?

Flea and tick infestations are common problems for both dogs and cats. If your pet is suffering from the pests, it's best to deal with the problem right away, as the bugs can carry serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. You can choose from a number of methods to kill fleas and ticks, and some methods will eliminate both at the same time.

  1. Sprays

    • Use a flea and tick spray for an infestation. Most pet stores and grocery stores sell flea sprays that will kill off the bugs. Some will control fleas for up to three months and ticks for up to one month while being safe for your dog or cat.

    Heartworm Medication

    • Heartworm preventives sometimes contain ingredients that kill or control fleas. Check the label of several products in your local pet store to see if they have that ability. Some are topical products and some are ingested orally, typically taken monthly.

    Injections

    • You can have your vet give the pet a special injection, which may begin killing fleas and ticks within minutes. You can make it a one-time visit or schedule regular visits with your vet to make sure all of the bugs are eradicated.

    Shampoos

    • Use flea shampoos. Many pet stores also offer these products, which will both get your pet clean and kill the pests at the same time. You might opt for an herbal, all-natural shampoo. Look for one that contains pine cedar, rosemary, lavendar, eucalyptus or geranium. Start with the head and the neck area so the fleas can't try to avoid the shampoo by going to the pet's head. Never wash the pet's head with water or soap.

    Tweezers

    • Use the old-fashioned tweezer method to pull ticks off your pet by the head, and then squash them. Clean the bite wound and then wash your hands and the tweezer. Check the fur periodically to ensure that all the ticks are gone. It's best to catch them early.