Seresto flea and tick collars for dogs
Seresto flea and tick collars have become a favorite among dog owners looking for long-lasting and effective protection against fleas, ticks, and other external parasites. With their innovative formula and up to 8 months of continuous action, Seresto collars are a practical and reliable choice.
This guide explains what makes Seresto different from other products on the market, how to use it properly, what benefits it offers, and when it's the right time to use it on your dog.
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What is the Seresto collar and how does it work?
Seresto is a flea and tick collar developed by Bayer (now Elanco) that slowly releases two active ingredients: imidacloprid and flumethrin. This combination creates a protective barrier that repels and kills fleas and ticks before they bite or latch onto your dog.
What sets Seresto apart is its long-lasting effect of up to 8 months, reducing the need for monthly treatments like spot-ons. It's also water-resistant, odorless, and easy to put on.
Main benefits of Seresto collars
- Extended protection: up to 8 months of continuous defense.
- Disease prevention: helps prevent illnesses like ehrlichiosis and babesiosis.
- Convenient use: put it on once and forget about monthly doses.
- Suitable for all sizes: available in versions for small and large dogs.
- Good tolerance: most dogs, even with sensitive skin, tolerate it well.
It’s a great choice if you're looking for an effective, low-maintenance solution.
Is the Seresto collar safe for all dogs?
Seresto is generally safe for most dogs over 7 weeks old. However, like any antiparasitic product, occasional reactions may occur, such as itching or redness around the neck.
If your dog has very sensitive skin or has reacted poorly to other collars, consult your vet before using it. It's also essential to adjust the collar correctly to avoid chafing or discomfort.
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How to properly fit a Seresto collar
Proper fitting of the Seresto collar is essential to ensure it works effectively and doesn't cause any discomfort to your dog. Although the process is simple, there are a few important steps you should follow carefully:
- Gently remove the collar from its packaging and fully unroll it. You might notice a light white powder—this is normal and harmless.
- Place the collar around your dog’s neck, ensuring it’s not too tight or too loose. You should be able to comfortably fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s skin.
- Trim any excess length, leaving about 2 to 3 cm after the buckle to prevent your dog from chewing on it or it dangling too much.
- Make sure the collar doesn’t come into contact with your dog’s eyes, mouth, or mucous membranes. After fitting it, wash your hands with soap and water.
- Check the collar after a few days to confirm it still fits correctly, especially in growing puppies or dogs that gain or lose weight. Adjust if needed.
A properly fitted collar allows the active ingredients to distribute evenly across your dog’s skin and coat, ensuring long-lasting protection and maximum comfort.
When is it recommended to use Seresto?
The Seresto collar is designed to provide protection all year round, but there are specific times and situations when its use is especially beneficial. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- High parasite seasons: Spring and summer are peak times for fleas and ticks. Starting prevention before these seasons helps avoid infestations before they start.
- Outdoor environments: If your dog regularly walks in grassy, wooded, or rural areas, the exposure to parasites increases, making Seresto a smart preventive solution.
- Warm or humid climates: In regions with mild or humid weather, parasites can be active for most of the year, so extended protection is crucial.
- For convenience: If you prefer to avoid monthly treatments like spot-ons, Seresto provides continuous protection for up to 8 months with a single application.
Although it can be combined with internal deworming treatments, it’s not advisable to use it alongside other external antiparasitic products unless instructed by a veterinarian, to avoid overdosing or adverse interactions.
Remember: starting parasite prevention early is far more effective than treating an infestation after it happens.
Frequently asked questions about Seresto collars
How long does it take for the Seresto collar to work?
The Seresto collar starts working shortly after being properly fitted. It typically kills fleas within 24 hours and ticks within 48 hours. The exact timing may vary slightly depending on your dog’s environment and coat. To ensure it works from day one, make sure the collar fits correctly and avoid bathing your dog immediately after putting it on.
Can I bathe my dog while wearing the collar?
Yes, the Seresto collar is water-resistant, which means your dog can bathe, get wet in the rain, or play in puddles without needing to remove the collar. However, frequent bathing or use of harsh shampoos may gradually reduce its effectiveness. For best results, gently dry the collar after each bath.
Does the Seresto collar protect against mosquitoes?
The Seresto collar is not specifically designed to repel mosquitoes. Its main action targets fleas, ticks, and lice. While some users report fewer mosquito bites, this isn’t the collar’s primary function. If mosquitoes are a concern in your area, it's best to use an additional vet-approved repellent.
Is Seresto safe for puppies?
Yes, Seresto is safe for puppies aged 7 weeks and older, as long as they meet the minimum weight requirements. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions and consult your vet if you have any concerns, especially if it’s your puppy’s first time using antiparasitic products. If any skin irritation appears, remove the collar and consider gentler alternatives.
Is there a version for small dogs?
Yes, Seresto is available in two sizes: one for small dogs (under 8 kg) and one for medium to large dogs (over 8 kg). Choosing the correct size ensures proper dosage of the active ingredients. You should never cut a large collar to fit a smaller dog, as the concentration of the treatment remains the same.
What should I do if my dog has an allergic reaction to the collar?
If your dog starts scratching excessively, shows redness around the neck, or seems uncomfortable after putting on the Seresto collar, remove it immediately. Clean the area gently with water and mild soap, and monitor for improvement. If symptoms persist or get worse, contact your vet. Although rare, some dogs may react differently to the active ingredients.
Can Seresto be used alongside other antiparasitic treatments?
In some cases, yes. For example, Seresto can be used in combination with internal deworming treatments. However, using it alongside other topical products (like spot-ons, sprays, or shampoos) is not always recommended. Always ask your vet before combining products to avoid overdosing or side effects.
Does the Seresto collar lose effectiveness if it gets wet?
The Seresto collar is water-resistant and does not need to be removed when your dog gets wet. However, if your dog swims often or is bathed frequently, especially with strong shampoos, the collar’s duration and effectiveness may be slightly reduced—particularly against ticks. Dry the collar after bathing to help preserve its protective properties.