The Best Tick & Chigger Defense

As warm weather arrives, so do annual infestations of chiggers and ticks. These pests can carry numerous diseases. There are several ways to counter these arachnids, allowing you and your pets to enjoy the outdoors. The best tick and chigger defense differs from one situation to another.

  1. Description

    • Anyone used to spending time outdoors during warm weather months has probably come into contact with ticks and chiggers. Ticks, whether they have hard or soft bodies, are known to carry diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis and tularemia, among others. Even though chiggers -- which are larval forms of mites -- are not known to carry diseases, the itching caused by their feeding is annoying to their hosts.

    Defense

    • A passive defense against chiggers and ticks is to avoid them. Keeping lawns mowed and avoiding wooded areas is one way to control these pests. Spraying areas where chiggers are know to live can provide some relief; however, sometimes the relief lasts only for a few hours, particularly if an infestation is widespread. Sulfur powder applied to dogs and cats can keep both ticks and chiggers away. However, you should limit such application to outdoor animals, as inside animals may rub some of the powder off on furniture. The odor is not pleasant, either.

    Repellents and Attire

    • Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants is another way to keep ticks and chiggers at bay. If you plan on spending much time outside, consider applying a repellent that contains DEET. Repellents containing picaridin or permethrin also work well on humans and pets. Always follow directions when applying chemical repellents, to avoid skin irritations.

    Repellents for Pets

    • Most cats and dogs will get some relief from ticks by wearing flea collars. Other products containing fipronil, that are made to protect against other insects, keep ticks away as well. Some of these products are expensive; some can be obtained only from veterinarians. Some products containing citronella have proven effective, but these usually need to be reapplied often.