Providing basic care to our pets is crucial, including protection against parasites. These parasites can cause not only discomfort to our animals through bites and wounds, but can also spread diseases. As a result, it's natural to question which method is more effective, whether it's an anti-parasitic collar or a pipette.
Let's examine the pros and cons of each, as well as expert recommendations.
Why deworming is important
Parasites attacking your pet can result in various consequences, such as skin irritations, allergic dermatitis, hair loss, Lyme disease, anemia, and leishmaniosis. These parasites reproduce easily and can be difficult to eliminate, putting other family members at risk of infection. Thus, prevention is the best course of action.
When deciding between an anti-parasitic collar or pipette, it's best to consult your trusted veterinarian for personalized advice. However, here is some information to help you make an informed decision.
Pros and Cons of Anti-Parasitic Collars
An Anti-Parasitic Collar: What it is and How to Choose the Right One
An anti-parasitic collar is a rubber collar that slowly releases antiparasitic substances onto the pet's skin. There are various brands with varying effectiveness durations ranging from 6 to 8 months.
When purchasing, it is important to select the right one for your pet, taking into account that there are options available for both cats and dogs and different sizes.
Pros of Anti-Parasitic Collars:
- No offensive odor.
- Longer-lasting compared to pipettes.
- Pet can be bathed while wearing the collar as its effect is water-resistant.
- Despite a higher unit cost, it is more cost-effective in the long term compared to pipettes.
- Cons of Anti-Parasitic Collars:
- Although non-toxic to the touch, it can be toxic if ingested through biting. Care must be taken to avoid this.
- The collar is a visible element, making it less aesthetically pleasing.
- Some animals may find wearing the collar uncomfortable if they are not used to it.
- The collar only prevents parasites and does not eradicate them if the pet has already been infected.
Pros and cons of the pipette
The pipettes consist of a liquid that can be applied in single doses on the pet's skin. Normally, the areas to apply are between the shoulders and the back of the neck, as well as along the spine in large dogs.
The effect of this product is usually 4 weeks, so for the animal to be protected, the pipette must be applied every month . In addition, it is important that, after its administration, the animal avoid contact with water for the next 48 hours after its application.
Among the benefits of the pipette are:
- Its application is simple.
- Act immediately .
- It acts as a protective barrier, but also as a cure when the parasites have already attacked the animal.
However, it's important to consider its drawbacks when deciding between an antiparasitic collar or a pipette.
Some of the disadvantages of pipettes include:
- Strong odor for the first few days after application.
- Low resistance to water contact.
- Poison risk if the pet licks the liquid from the pipette, so it's important to keep it away from children and wash hands after applying it.
- Monthly administration required for continuous protection.
- Difficult to apply in dogs with thick fur, as it must be applied directly to the skin.
Antiparasitic collar or pipette?
It's evident that both methods are effective and have their pros. However, some experts offer specific recommendations based on the pet.
For dogs, antiparasitic collars are easier to put on and generally don't cause discomfort. However, cats, due to their anatomy, may have a harder time accepting them and may have an easier time removing them.
Therefore, for ease of use, veterinarians often recommend pipettes for cats, though if the cat is used to wearing a collar, it can be used for added protection.
In fact, when it is known that in the habitat of the dog or cat there is a risk of contagion, for example, the presence of the phlebotomus, the mosquito that causes leishmaniasis, the ideal is to combine the two methods.
Additionally, when deciding between a deworming collar or pipette, consider factors like the duration of its effectiveness. If you tend to forget monthly treatments, it may be better to opt for a collar for longer-term protection.
Ultimately, it's best to follow the advice of your veterinarian.