How to Protect Pets During Tick Season

As the weather becomes warmer, many pets spend more time outdoors exploring gardens, parks, woodland paths and long grass. While this is a lovely part of spring and summer, it also brings a higher risk of ticks. Tick season is an important time for UK pet owners to think about prevention, early checks and knowing when to contact a veterinary surgeon.

Ticks are small parasites that attach to animals and feed on blood. They are most active in the warmer months, although in mild weather they can be a risk at other times of year too. Dogs are particularly likely to pick them up during walks, but cats that roam outside can also be affected. Even small pets may be at some risk if they spend time in grassy outdoor runs.

With the right preventative care, regular checks and prompt action, most pets can be protected well during tick season.

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.

Why ticks are more common in warmer months

Ticks thrive in environments such as tall grass, woodland, moorland, heathland and areas with wildlife. As temperatures rise, they become more active and are more likely to attach to passing animals. Pets that enjoy countryside walks, hedge lines, rural gardens or contact with other animals may be at increased risk.

In the UK, tick activity often increases in spring and summer, but it is worth remembering that ticks do not always disappear in winter. Milder conditions can allow them to stay active for longer than many owners expect.

Why ticks matter for dogs and cats

A single tick may seem small, but it can still cause irritation, inflammation and discomfort. In some cases, ticks may also pass on infections. While this does not happen every time, it is one of the main reasons prevention is so important.

Pets with ticks may develop:

• Local skin irritation where the tick has attached
• Redness or swelling
• Scratching, licking or rubbing the area
• Discomfort when touched
• Occasionally, signs of illness if infection is involved

If your dog or cat seems unusually tired, off their food, sore, lame or generally unwell after a tick bite, it is best to contact your veterinary practice for advice.

Where pets pick up ticks

Ticks do not jump or fly. Instead, they wait on vegetation and attach when an animal brushes past. Common places where pets may pick up ticks include:

• Woodland walks
• Long grass and meadows
• Rural footpaths
• Parks with dense vegetation
• Gardens visited by wildlife such as foxes, deer or hedgehogs

Even pets that do not go far from home can still be exposed, especially in areas where ticks are already established.

How to check your pet for ticks

One of the simplest ways to protect your pet during tick season is to check them regularly, especially after walks or time outdoors. Running your hands over your pet’s coat can help you spot small lumps before they become a problem.

Areas to check carefully

Ticks often attach in warm, hidden areas. Pay close attention to:

• Around the ears and under the collar
• The head and neck
• Between the toes
• Under the legs and in the armpits
• Around the groin
• Anywhere with thinner skin

On long-haired pets, ticks can be harder to find, so slow and thorough checking is helpful.

What a tick looks like

Ticks can look like small grey, brown or dark bumps attached to the skin. They may be tiny at first and become larger as they feed. Owners sometimes mistake them for skin tags or small lumps, so if you are unsure, ask your veterinary practice for guidance.

Preventative tick treatments for pets

Preventative treatment is one of the best ways to reduce the chance of ticks attaching or staying attached long enough to cause problems. There are several types of flea and tick products available for dogs and cats, including spot-on treatments, tablets and collars. The right option depends on your pet’s species, age, health, lifestyle and any existing treatment plan from your vet.

We recommend choosing products carefully and always using them exactly as directed. Never use a dog tick product on a cat unless it is specifically licensed for cats, as some ingredients that are safe for dogs can be very dangerous for cats.

If you are looking at seasonal parasite protection, you can browse our flea, tick & worming collection, including options for both dogs and cats. You can also explore our dedicated dog flea and worming products and cat flea, tick and worming products.

Prescription and non-prescription options

Some tick treatments are available only on prescription, while others can be supplied without one. Prescription products may be recommended by your veterinary surgeon based on your pet’s individual needs and risk level.

If your pet has been prescribed a treatment, we make it straightforward to order online. You can read more about how to order a prescription medicine and find further help in our prescription FAQs.

Tips to reduce tick exposure

Preventative treatments work best when combined with practical steps at home and on walks.

• Stick to clear paths when walking through long grass or woodland
• Check your dog or cat after outdoor activity
• Keep your garden as tidy as possible, especially grassy or overgrown areas
• Wash pet bedding regularly
• Stay up to date with preventative parasite treatments
• Speak to your veterinary surgeon if you live in or visit a high-risk area

Owners of adventurous dogs may also find it helpful to keep an eye on skin and coat condition more generally. Our dog skin and coat products and cat skin and coat collections may be useful for broader coat care support where appropriate.

How to remove a tick safely

If you find a tick on your pet, it is important to remove it carefully. Avoid pulling it off with fingers, squeezing it, or applying substances such as petroleum jelly. These methods can increase irritation and may leave parts of the tick behind.

A proper tick removal tool is usually the safest option. The aim is to remove the whole tick cleanly and as soon as possible. If you are not confident doing this, contact your veterinary practice for help.

After removing a tick

Once the tick is removed:

• Check that the area looks clean
• Monitor for redness, swelling or discharge
• Watch your pet for any signs of discomfort or illness
• Contact your vet if the skin becomes sore or your pet seems unwell

If you find repeated ticks on your pet, it may be a sign that their current parasite protection needs reviewing.

When to contact your veterinary surgeon

You should speak to your veterinary surgeon if:

• You are unsure whether a parasite is a tick
• You cannot remove the tick safely
• The bite area becomes red, swollen or painful
• Your pet becomes lethargic, lame, off food or generally unwell
• Your pet needs help choosing the most suitable tick prevention
• You are considering prescription flea or tick treatment

This is especially important for very young pets, elderly pets, pets with ongoing health conditions, or cats if there is any chance an incorrect product may have been used.

Choosing the right support for your pet

Every pet is different, and tick prevention should match their lifestyle. A dog who enjoys rural walks may need a different approach from an indoor cat who only occasionally visits the garden. If your pet already receives other medication, it is sensible to check that any parasite treatment fits safely with their current care plan.

At Vetscriptions, we aim to help make pet healthcare clearer and more accessible for UK owners. You can browse our dog collection, cat collection and small animal collection for relevant health products, or learn more about us and our vet-led approach.

Conclusion

Tick season is a normal part of life for many UK pets, particularly during the warmer months, but with regular checks and the right preventative treatment, the risks can often be reduced significantly. Staying alert, removing ticks safely and choosing suitable flea and tick protection can all help keep your dog or cat comfortable and well.

If you are unsure which product is most appropriate, or if your pet has reacted to a tick bite or seems unwell, it is always best to contact your veterinary surgeon for advice. If you already have a prescription, we can help you order responsibly online and have your pet’s medication delivered conveniently to your door. You can also visit our contact page if you need support with an order or product query, or read more on our postage & delivery information page.

For everyday parasite prevention and seasonal pet care, we invite you to explore the Vetscriptions range of trusted pet health products and continue learning how to support your pet’s wellbeing throughout the year.