Getting a new kitten is a joyous experience, and as a pet owner, you want to do everything in your power to keep your kitten safe. This includes maintaining his vaccinations, buying the right food for his age, getting kitten-safe toys, and finding the safest flea and tick protection. Here’s how you can find flea and tick prevention for kittens that is safe and actually works:
Eight Weeks
It’s important to find flea and tick prevention that is safe for small, young kittens. For kittens between 8-10 weeks old, the safest option is typically topical treatments. You will need to part your kitten’s fur and apply the ointment or gel directly to the skin at the base of your kitten’s neck, just above the shoulder blades. This spot should be hard for kittens to reach, so they’re less likely to lick it off.
Ten Weeks
As your kitten ages, other flea and tick prevention methods become available. A flea and tick collar is convenient, but kittens can easily slip out of them, and if you have kids in the house, they shouldn’t touch the collars. You can choose a topical option at this age as well.
Twelve Weeks
At twelve weeks, you can talk to your veterinarian about whether it is safe to give your kitten an oral flea and tick prevention. This may depend on your kitten’s weight and overall health. You can still use collars or topical treatments.
Six Months
At six months and older, you can start using flea and tick prevention methods that last longer than just one month. Ask your veterinarian about oral and topical flea and tick medication that only needs to be repeated every 4-6 months.
If your kitten is less than eight weeks old and you’re worried he’s at risk for fleas, or if you want more help choosing the right flea and tick prevention methods for your new kitten, contact your veterinarian.
