How to read flea, tick and worm product labels
Introduction
Labels hold the answers to 90% of dosing questions. A quick checklist before you buy or apply will keep your pet safe and your plan on track. This guide was prepared with input from our lead vet and founder, Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc.
The 60-second label checklist
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Species. Dog or cat only
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Weight band. Match your pet’s current weight
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Minimum age. Check the starting age for puppies or kittens
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Coverage. Fleas and ticks only, or does it include heartworm prevention and intestinal worms
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Interval. Monthly or longer-acting. Set a reminder that repeats
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Directions. Chew with food or apply to clean, dry skin high on the neck for cats
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Warnings. Keep cats away from recently treated dogs if advised. Do not stack multiple products unless your vet says it’s safe
How to compare two labels
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Look for what is included and what is not
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Compare dose intervals
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Confirm weight bands are the same before you compare price
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Pick the format you can give reliably at home
Common mistakes to avoid
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Guessing the weight band
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Splitting chews to make a size fit
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Switching products mid-cycle and leaving gaps
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Using a dog product on a cat
Products we trust
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Dogs, monthly all-in-one: Simparica Trio Chewable Tablet for Dogs
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Dogs, flea and tick focus: NexGard Chewables for Dogs
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Dogs, longer-acting flea and tick: Bravecto Chew for Dogs
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Cats, broad monthly: Revolution Plus Spot-On for Cats
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Cats, longer-acting flea and tick: Bravecto Spot-On for Cats
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Cats, simpler monthly: Revolution Topical Solution for Cats
FAQ
Do I need to read labels if I’ve used the product before
Yes. Pets grow into new weight bands and labels can update. Recheck before each purchase.
What if my pet spits out a chew
Read the directions. Some products advise re-dosing if vomited within a set time window. When in doubt, call your vet.
Need help picking between two labels
Share the names and your pet’s details and we will help you compare — contact us.
Also in Dr. Feargus’ Australian Pet Health Blog
Pet dental care at home | Easy brushing guide
A simple Australian guide to brushing your dog or cat’s teeth. What you need, step‑by‑step instructions, and when to see your vet.
How often should you treat your dog for fleas in Australia?
A simple schedule for flea prevention in Australian dogs. What to use, how long to treat, and how to stay on time—even if you already have fleas at home.
Travelling tradies with dogs: parasite guide
A road-ready parasite plan for tradies and their dogs. Ute and site hygiene, packing list, dose timing, and trusted product picks.
