How to Protect Pets During Tick Season

Ticks are a common concern for UK pet owners, especially during the warmer months when pets are spending more time outdoors. These small parasites can attach to dogs, cats and, in some cases, small pets that live in outdoor hutches or runs. While not every tick causes illness, they can spread infection and lead to irritation, discomfort and skin problems if they are not spotted and removed promptly.

The good news is that there are practical steps you can take to reduce your pet’s risk during tick season. With regular checks, sensible prevention and the right flea and tick treatment, most pets can continue to enjoy the outdoors safely.

This article is intended for general guidance only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or showing concerning symptoms, please contact your veterinary surgeon.

When is tick season in the UK?

Ticks can be found throughout the year, but they are usually most active in spring, summer and early autumn. Mild winters can also allow ticks to remain active for longer than many owners expect. In the UK, pets are more likely to pick up ticks in:

• Woodland and forest areas
• Long grass and scrubland
• Heathland and moorland
• Parks and fields with wildlife
• Gardens visited by hedgehogs, foxes or deer

Dogs are particularly at risk because they often walk through grassy areas and undergrowth. Cats that roam outdoors may also bring ticks home, especially if they hunt or move through dense vegetation.

Why ticks matter for pets

Ticks feed by attaching to your pet’s skin and taking a blood meal. You may notice a small grey, brown or dark rounded lump on the skin, often around the head, ears, neck, armpits or between the toes. Some pets show no signs at all, while others may lick, scratch or seem irritated at the attachment site.

In addition to local skin irritation, ticks can occasionally pass on infections. The risk of disease transmission is one reason why fast removal and routine prevention are important. Even if your pet seems well, it is still worth taking tick bites seriously.

Possible problems caused by ticks

• Skin irritation or inflammation where the tick is attached
• Small wounds or local infection after removal
• Transmission of some tick-borne diseases
• Discomfort, especially in heavily infested pets

If your pet develops lethargy, swelling, limping, fever, reduced appetite or unusual behaviour after a tick bite, contact your veterinary surgeon for advice.

How to reduce your pet’s exposure to ticks

You cannot remove every possible risk, especially if your pet enjoys outdoor exercise, but a few simple habits can make a big difference.

Stick to clear paths where possible

When walking dogs, try to keep to mown paths and avoid letting them push through long grass, bracken and dense undergrowth where ticks are more likely to wait for passing animals.

Check pets after walks or outdoor time

One of the best ways to protect pets during tick season is to examine them regularly, especially after walks in the countryside. Run your hands slowly over your pet’s body and feel for small bumps. Pay close attention to:

• Around the ears and eyelids
• Under the collar or harness
• Neck folds
• Armpits and groin
• Between the toes
• Under the tail

For cats, regular grooming can help you spot ticks sooner. For rabbits and other small pets with outdoor access, gentle checks around the face, ears and body are also sensible, especially in warmer weather.

Keep gardens tidy

If your pet spends time in the garden, reducing tick-friendly habitats may help. Keeping grass short, trimming overgrown areas and clearing leaf litter can make your outdoor space less attractive to ticks and the wildlife that may carry them.

Use a suitable tick prevention product

Prevention is often the most reliable way to lower the risk of ticks attaching to your pet. There are several types of flea and tick treatments available in the UK, including spot-on treatments, tablets and collars. The best choice depends on your pet’s species, age, lifestyle, health and any other medication they may be taking.

At Vetscriptions, we offer a range of flea, tick and worming products for UK pets, including options for both dogs and cats. You can also browse our dedicated dog flea and worming products and cat flea, tick and worming products collections if you are looking for species-specific choices.

Choose products carefully

It is very important to use only products licensed for your pet’s species. Some treatments that are safe for dogs can be highly dangerous to cats. Never share medication between pets unless your veterinary surgeon has told you to do so.

If you are unsure which treatment is suitable, speak to your veterinary practice before starting a new product. If your pet needs a prescription treatment, you can read more about how to order a prescription medicine through Vetscriptions, and find further help in our prescription FAQs.

How to remove a tick safely

If you find a tick on your pet, remove it as soon as possible using a proper tick-removal tool if you have one. Try to avoid squeezing the body of the tick, as this may increase irritation and make removal more difficult.

Simple steps for tick removal

• Keep your pet calm and still
• Use a tick hook or remover designed for pets
• Position the tool close to the skin, under the tick
• Twist or lift according to the product instructions until the tick comes away
• Check the area afterwards and clean it gently if needed
• Wash your hands after removal

Do not use petroleum jelly, alcohol, nail varnish or a naked flame to try to detach a tick. These methods are not recommended and may make matters worse.

If the tick is in a difficult place, if part of it seems to be left behind, or if your pet becomes distressed, contact your veterinary practice for help.

Signs to watch for after a tick bite

Many pets are completely well after a tick is removed, but it is sensible to keep an eye on them over the following days and weeks. Contact your veterinary surgeon if you notice:

• Redness, swelling or discharge at the bite site
• Lethargy or unusual tiredness
• Loss of appetite
• Limping or stiffness
• Fever or seeming generally unwell
• Persistent scratching or skin irritation

These signs do not always mean a tick-related illness, but they do justify veterinary advice, particularly if your pet has recently had a known tick bite.

What about small pets?

Ticks are less commonly discussed in rabbits, guinea pigs and other small pets, but outdoor pets can still be exposed. Hutches and runs placed near long grass, hedges or wildlife corridors may increase the risk. Regular handling and gentle checks can help you spot any problems early.

If you keep small pets and need everyday healthcare products, you can browse our small animal collection. Always check with a veterinary surgeon before using any parasite treatment on small pets, as many products are not suitable across different species.

Supporting your pet’s overall health during parasite season

A healthy skin and coat can make it easier to spot problems early. Regular grooming, routine health checks and keeping up to date with preventative care all play a part. Some owners also choose to support general wellbeing with supplements alongside a balanced diet and appropriate parasite protection.

If you are reviewing your pet’s seasonal health plan, you may also wish to explore our premium supplements, as well as our wider dog and cat collections for everyday care products.

When to contact your veterinary surgeon

You should seek veterinary advice if:

• You are unable to remove a tick safely
• Your pet has several ticks at once
• The bite area becomes sore, swollen or infected
• Your pet seems unwell after a tick bite
• You are unsure which tick prevention product is suitable
• Your pet has an existing health condition or is taking other medication

For pets prescribed parasite treatment by a vet, we can help you access genuine medications conveniently online. You can browse prescription medicines, complete an animal health form where needed, or contact us if you need help with the ordering process.

Conclusion

Protecting pets during tick season is mostly about being prepared rather than being worried. Regular checks, prompt tick removal and the right preventative treatment can all help reduce the risk for dogs, cats and small pets in the UK. By staying alert after walks, keeping gardens manageable and using vet-recommended products responsibly, you can help your pet enjoy the outdoors more safely.

If you are reviewing your pet’s tick protection, we invite you to explore the Vetscriptions website and browse our range of flea, tick and worming products. If you are unsure which option is right for your pet, your veterinary surgeon is always the best person to advise. At Vetscriptions, we are here to help you make informed, responsible choices for your pet’s health and wellbeing.