Backyard wildlife and parasites: protect Aussie pets

Introduction

Wildlife makes suburbs feel alive, but it also raises parasite risks for pets. With a few yard habits and a steady dosing plan, you can enjoy the visitors and keep pets comfortable. Prepared with input from our lead vet and founder, Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc.

How wildlife increases risk

• Fleas ride in on roaming cats, foxes and small mammals

• Ticks quest in long grass, leaf litter and coastal scrub

• Droppings and prey carry intestinal worms for hunting pets

Yard habits that help

• Keep lawns short and trim dense shrubs

• Rake leaf litter, clear under decks and along fence lines

• Secure bins and feed pets indoors, do not leave bowls outside overnight

• Cover sandpits, tidy stored gear, remove standing water from pot saucers

• Block gaps under fences to reduce roaming wildlife

Daily checks in tick areas

Run a quick hands-on search after evening walks or garden time: lips, ear edges, under collar, armpits, groin, between toes, tail base. Re-check after beach or bush tracks.

Indoor cat and hunting tips

• Use play, perches and puzzles to reduce hunting

• Keep balcony saucers dry to cut mosquitoes

• Wash blankets hot and vacuum cat trees weekly

Dosing rhythm

Pick one date for every pet. Add a mid-interval reminder if you use a long-acting product. Treat every pet in the home on the same day.

Products we trust

• Dogs, monthly all-in-one: Simparica Trio Chewable Tablet for Dogs

• Dogs, fleas and ticks: NexGard Chewables for Dogs

• Dogs, longer interval: Bravecto Chew for Dogs

• Cats, broad monthly: Revolution Plus Spot-On for Cats

• Cats, longer interval: Bravecto Spot-On for Cats

Safety basics

• Species matters. Never use a dog product on a cat

• Match current weight band and minimum age

• Avoid stacking preventatives unless your vet advises

FAQ

Should I discourage wildlife from the yard
Use humane measures only. Focus on tidy yards, sealed bins and no overnight pet food.

Do indoor-only pets still need prevention
Yes. Fleas and mosquitoes still enter homes.

Want a yard and dosing plan for your block and pets
Share your setup and pet details and we will map it with you — contact us.