ArcaMax

A: Veterinary parasitologist Dr. Michael Dryden, distinguished professor in the Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology at Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Manhattan, says that statistically, veterinary product failures are often human failures -- either people forget to use the product or don't use it as directed. In some cases, owners believe their dog swallowed a chewable when the pet actually spit it out or threw it up.

"It's important to understand that veterinary (recommended) products do work, but the right product for your home may be dependent on where you live, and also your pets' lifestyles," Dryden says. "So, in fact, I bet you're doing nothing wrong. In any case, there's new technology available. Comfortis and Nexgard are monthly chewables, with excellent residual speed of kill, which is how rapid the kill rate is even after the product was given some time ago. The same is true for Bravecto, also a chewable, which has the added bonus of giving the pet 12 weeks of protection."

Dryden also likes Vectra 3D, a monthly spot on, which can potentially deter fleas and ticks from getting onto your pet in the first place, but kills them quickly if they do attach.

Feel free to show this column to your veterinarian. It's exciting that there are so many flea/tick products available today.

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Q: My 8-month-old kitten has an odd habit of carrying around what we call her "blanky." She sleeps with it and carries it around the house, purring all the time. Is she neurotic? -- P.N., Charlotte, NC

A: Your cat is like Linus from Charlie Brown. Her blanky provides comfort. Or perhaps she just likes the feel of the warm, soft fabric. Then, again, she could just be having fun dragging it around the house; it might be a little game.

She may grow out of her blanket attachment, or not. In any case, you should be grateful. It sounds like your kitty is helping to dust your house.

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