Preventative flea medication is a modern convenience that has saved many pets and their caretakers from the biting disease carrying pests. However, there are risks associated with this medication. In this edition of Pet Pointers, Lisa Chelenza looks at the proper use of topical flea medication and signs your pet may be having a reaction.

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There are several brands of topical flea medication available by prescription from your vet, and over the counter. While the dosing instructions may seem simple, thousands of pets each year experience reactions from mild to severe, sometimes due to an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients in the medication or due to an accidental overdose.

Keep in mind, the benefits outweigh the risks, and you should not stop using your topical flea treatment, but be sure to use them properly. Many medications are specific to dogs or cats, and cannot be interchanged. These treatments not only prevent flea bites, but help protect our pets against Lyme disease, tapeworm, and various other diseases that are transmitted through the bites of fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.

Remember before you administer any flea medication talk to your vet about how they should be given and read the instructions when you get home.