Large family homes in NZ: a simple flea and tick plan
Introduction
Busy homes mean more soft furnishings, sports bags and visitors. That is how flea stages hitch a ride and why a steady plan matters. Keep one calendar for every pet and add a light, repeatable clean in the rooms you use most. Reviewed with input from our lead vet and founder, Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc.
Make one schedule everyone follows
Pick a monthly house dose day that never changes. Store all packs together in a labelled box and note next due dates on each pack. If you use a longer acting option for one pet, add a mid-interval phone reminder so you do not miss it.
Room routines that work
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Vacuum rugs, skirting and sofa seams, then empty the vacuum outside
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Hot-wash pet bedding and favourite blankets and dry thoroughly
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Shake and sun-dry door and car mats after wet weekends
Kids, teens and shared spaces
Keep product packs high and latched. Apply cat spot-ons in a quiet room and let them dry before cuddles. Tie dose day to family rituals like the first Saturday of the month so it sticks.
Multi-pet tips
Treat every pet on the same date. Use dog products for dogs and cat products for cats. Re-weigh quarterly so growing pets stay in the right band.
Products we trust
Dogs
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Monthly fleas and ticks: NexGard Chewables for Dogs
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Monthly all-in-one: Simparica Trio Chewable Tablet for Dogs
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Longer-acting fleas and ticks: Bravecto Chew for Dogs
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On-pet option: Seresto Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs
Cats
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Broad monthly spot-on: Revolution Plus Spot-On for Cats
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Longer-acting fleas and ticks: Bravecto Spot-On for Cats
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Simple monthly option: Revolution Topical Solution for Cats
Safety basics
Match species, weight band and minimum age. Avoid stacking preventives unless your vet advises. Keep packs cool and dry.
FAQ
We still see the odd flea even when we dose on time. Is that normal
Yes during the clean-up phase while hidden stages emerge. Keep the weekly routine going.
Want a family-wide calendar set up with your pets and dates
We can map it with you one to one — contact us.
Also in Dr. Feargus’ New Zealand Pet Health Blog
Does My Dog Need a Worming Tablet?
If you’re wondering whether your dog really needs a worming tablet, the answer is yes.
Even healthy-looking dogs can carry worms without showing any signs.
Why Is My Dog Scratching More in Spring?
Spring in New Zealand is a beautiful time of year. But if your dog suddenly can’t stop scratching, biting, or licking their skin, it can be worrying.
How to Choose the Right Flea, Tick, and Worm Treatment for Your Pet in New Zealand
If you’ve ever stood in front of a wall of pet treatments and wondered which one to buy, you’re not alone.
