Ginger cat scratching behind its ear with a hind paw

Parasite Prevention

Parasites can cause discomfort, illness and serious health problems in dogs and cats. Some can also pose a risk to people, so regular prevention is an important part of your pet’s healthcare.

At North Balwyn Village Vets, we can help you choose suitable parasite protection based on your pet’s lifestyle, health and environment.

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Woman crouching to kiss her golden retriever on a woodland path

Keeping your pet protected

Fleas, ticks, heartworm and intestinal worms can all affect dogs and cats, and each one needs the right protection.

Common parasites in dogs and cats include:

  • Fleas, which cause itching, skin irritation and allergic reactions, can lead to anaemia and can pass on tapeworm
  • Paralysis ticks, which can cause life-threatening illness
  • Heartworm, which is spread by mosquitoes and can damage the heart and lungs
  • Intestinal worms such as roundworm, hookworm and tapeworm, which can cause digestive problems and weight loss, and some of which can infect people

WHAT WE BELIEVE

Every pet deserves 
to be treated as an individual.

  • Compassion first

    We want every visit to feel calm, respectful and comfortable for your pet.

  • Care that's considered

    We look beyond the immediate problem to understand your pet's overall health.

  • Clear communication

    We keep you informed and explain your options in straightforward language.

  • Here for the long term

    We're here to support your pet throughout their changing needs and different stages of life.

Finding the right prevention plan

Different products protect against different parasites, so choosing the right treatment matters. Prevention may include tablets, chews, spot-on treatments or long-acting injections, depending on your pet’s needs. We’ll help you choose a program that suits your pet’s age, lifestyle and exposure risks, and explain how often to give each treatment.

Ginger cat scratching behind its ear
Hand scratching a contented calico cat under the chin

When should I bring my pet in?

Regular prevention all year round helps keep your pet healthy, comfortable and protected, so start a plan when you first bring a puppy or kitten home and keep it going throughout their life. Book a visit if you’d like to review your pet’s plan. If your pet becomes weak, starts walking unsteadily or has trouble breathing, which can be signs of a paralysis tick, call us straight away.

HOW WE CAN HELP

What can we help with?

Whether you have a playful puppy, a curious cat or an adventurous dog, 
we’re here to help, including:

  • Flea 
    Control

    Protection against fleas, which cause itching, skin irritation and allergic reactions.

  • Tick 
    Protection

    Prevention against paralysis ticks, which can cause life-threatening illness.

  • Heartworm 
    Prevention

    Protection against heartworm, which is spread by mosquitoes and can damage the heart and lungs.

  • Intestinal 
    Worming

    Regular worming against roundworm, hookworm and tapeworm, some of which can infect people.

  • Tailored 
    Plans

    Tablets, chews, spot-ons or long-acting injections, chosen to suit your pet’s age, lifestyle and risks.

Golden retriever running with a ball in its mouth

We help them
because they're family.

From their first visit to their golden years, we're here to help your pet live a healthier, happier life.