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    • Home  / Dr. Feargus’ New Zealand Pet Health Blog
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    Switching Flea, Tick & Worm Products Safely in NZ

    August 14, 2025 2 min read

    Switching Flea, Tick & Worm Products Safely in NZ

    Why timing matters
    A clean switch prevents gaps in protection and avoids doubling the same active ingredient. The simple rule. Start the new product when the old product’s protection period finishes.

    Before you switch

    • Check the date of the last dose.

    • Weigh your pet and choose the correct pack.

    • Decide on your preferred application. Chew or spot-on.

    • Read both labels so you know coverage periods and any special directions.

    Safe timing snapshots

    • Monthly chew to long-acting chew for dogs: Give the long-acting chew on the day the next monthly dose would be due.

    • Long-acting chew to monthly chew for dogs: Start the monthly chew when the long-acting coverage ends based on the label period.

    • Chew to spot-on: Apply the spot-on when the chew is next due. Keep the site dry as per the label.

    • Spot-on to chew: Give the chew when the spot-on’s protection period finishes.

    • Cats switching between monthly and long-acting spot-ons: Apply the new product when the previous one would have been due.

    If your pet has a medical condition or takes other medicines, ask your vet for tailored timing.

    Products that fit common NZ switch paths

    Simple safety rules

    • Use species-specific products only. Never use dog products on cats.

    • Do not combine treatments unless your vet advises it.

    • Match the correct weight band each time.

    • Apply spot-ons to clean, dry skin and keep the site away from children and other pets until dry.

    • Set phone reminders so you do not miss dates.

    Troubleshooting

    • Missed or late dose: Give it as soon as you remember, then reset your schedule from that date.

    • Cannot confirm the last dose date: Start today and set new reminders. If a dose may have been given very recently, ask your vet before redosing.

    • Skin still itchy after switching: Treat every pet in the home, hot-wash bedding, vacuum often, and give two to three weeks for skin to settle. See your vet if there is broken skin or infection.

    FAQ

    Can I overlap products for extra protection
    Do not overlap without vet advice. You can double the same active by mistake. The safe method is to start the new product when the old one finishes.

    How soon can I bathe after a spot-on
    Follow the label wait time. Apply to clean, dry skin and let it dry fully before bathing or swimming.

    Can I switch back later
    Yes. Use the same rule. Begin the new product when the current one finishes. Keep a simple calendar so dates stay clear.

    Need help planning your switch
    Tell us your pet’s age, weight and current product. Our vet-led team will map out safe timing for your home. Contact us.

    Feargus McConnell
    Feargus McConnell