We are all fans of the rain until it comes with significant health issues for our furry friends. Yes! The early onset of monsoon can trigger tick issues in our pets. And all pet parents must stay alert to avoid harming our fur babies. At Jaldee Vets, we aim to help every animal, so we develop helpful blogs. We also provide free online consultations for strays and appointment scheduling to avoid long queues.
What are Ticks?
Ticks are tiny arachnids belonging to the order Parasitiformes. They are external parasites that feed on the blood of animals, including dogs, cats, and even birds. Ticks can harm and weaken our pets by sucking their blood. Therefore, staying safe and keeping our furry friends ticks-free becomes crucial. It is essential to take proper precautions to prevent tick bites and promptly remove ticks attached to the skin to minimize the risk of tick-borne illnesses.
Rising Tick Issues During Monsoon
Factual data represents that tick issues tend to rise in the monsoon season. It is due to the factors related to environmental conditions and the behavior of ticks. Here are some key reasons why tick issues escalate during monsoon.
Favorable Climate
Ticks can live longer in humid environments, and monsoon brings proper humidity due to continuous rain and hot weather. Therefore, it becomes a suitable weather for ticks to survive and reproduce. The increased moisture and humidity during the monsoon create an ideal habitat for ticks. It allows them to thrive in grassy areas, bushes, and dense vegetation where they can easily stick to animals.
Decreased Grooming
Stats show that more than 50% of pet owners reduce the number of times their pets bathe in monsoon season simply because it is more challenging to dry them during this season. And stray animals spend more time seeking shelter and less grooming themselves. Nonetheless, monsoon reduces animal grooming activities, resulting in more ticks attaching to animals and increasing infestation rates.
Animal Activity
While some owners will deny it, most pet owners know that their fur babies love rain. And if we don’t keep an eye out, it will not take long for them to get drenched in heavy rain and dirt. Ultimately, it gives more opportunities for ticks to find hosts and increase the likelihood of ticks infestations in animals. Again, the damp coat of animals in monsoon proves to be an excellent environment for ticks.
Mitigate Tick Issues During the Early Onset of Monsoon
Implementing appropriate tick control measures for animals during monsoon season, including regular inspections and maintaining clean pets, is crucial. It involves a combination of strategies to reduce tick exposure and promptly address infestations.
Tick Prevention Products
The best treatment is prevention. Therefore, all pet parents must stay prepared for ticks beforehand. And invest in tick prevention products like treatments, collars, sprays, or oral medications designed to repeal or kill ticks. Regular and consistent use of the products can significantly reduce the risk of tick infestations. However, it is advisable to consult a vet before using any effect on your pet.
Tick-safe Areas
Monsoon brings heavy rainfall, causing mud puddles and dirty areas around your house. Whenever possible, restrict your pet’s access to tick-prone areas, such as dense vegetation, tall grass, and wooden regions. If we can prevent our furry friends from coming in contact with dirt and germs, we are more likely to keep them safe from rising tick issues. Consider creating tick-free zones for your pets, like a well-maintained backyard for them to enjoy.
Tick Checks
It is recommended to perform regular tick-checks on your pets, especially after their daily walks and playtimes. Run your hand over their body, feeling for small bumps or lumps. Pay particular attention to areas like ears, neck, head, underarms, and between the toes. If you find any ticks, remove them promptly with fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool. You can also take your pet to a vet if it is hard.
Nonetheless, we must care for our beloved fur babies during the monsoon and watch out for any possible health threat.