Fleas and ticks are a major nuisance for dog owners. These pesky parasites can cause skin irritation, infections, and even transmit dangerous diseases to your furry friend.
As a pet parent, you want to keep your dog protected. But you also don’t want to be constantly reapplying messy monthly spot treatments.
This is where Seresto collars can help. Seresto collars provide long-lasting flea and tick prevention through gradually released active ingredients.
But how long do Seresto collars actually last? And what factors impact their duration of effectiveness?
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the longevity of Seresto flea and tick collars. You’ll get answers to questions like:
- How many months of protection do Seresto collars provide?
- When is it time to replace the collar?
- What can reduce the collar’s effectiveness?
- How to keep it working its best?
Arm yourself with information so you can keep your dog protected from pesky parasites for as long as possible. Let’s dive in!
Contents
How Long Do Seresto Collars Last?
Seresto collars are designed to provide continuous flea and tick protection for dogs for 8 months.
This is the maximum duration of effectiveness you can expect when the collar is used properly according to the instructions.
The active ingredients in a Seresto collar are gradually released from the polymer matrix in the collar and spread over your dog’s coat.
It takes about 48 hours after first putting the collar on for the active ingredients to build up to optimal levels in your dog’s hair and skin surface.
Once at full strength, the insecticide ingredients work together to repel and kill fleas and ticks. The Seresto collar provides:
- 8 months of flea protection: Kills and repels fleas before they can bite.
- 8 months of tick protection: Repels and kills ticks, including those that may transmit Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases.
So in general, a Seresto collar should safely protect your dog from fleas and ticks for a full 8 months when used properly. This long-lasting protection means you only need to replace the collar a few times per year instead of applying monthly treatments.
When to Replace the Seresto Collar
To maintain continuous flea and tick protection, it’s recommended to replace the Seresto collar every 8 months.Here are some key tips on when it’s time to swap out your dog’s Seresto collar:
- Replace every 8 months – For most dogs, replace the collar every 8 months to maintain full flea/tick protection. Mark your calendar to remember when it’s due.
- Replace after 5 months for dogs who swim or bathe frequently – Dogs who swim or are bathed more than once per month may need more frequent collar replacement, as water can wash away active ingredients. For these dogs, replace the collar every 5 months.
- Replace immediately if the collar is damaged – Check the collar regularly for any damage or breaks. If the collar becomes cracked, cut, or broken, replace it right away to ensure continued protection.
- Watch for signs of reduced efficacy – Look for fleas/ticks on your dog, skin irritation, or other evidence the collar may no longer be working. Consult your vet if you notice any loss of effectiveness before 8 months.
- Don’t exceed 8 months of wear – For safety, always replace the collar within 8 months of application, even if it appears intact. The ingredients may be depleted.
Following these guidelines will help ensure your dog gets the full 8 months of flea and tick protection from each Seresto collar. Swapping out the collars on schedule is key to keeping your pup pest-free.
Ensuring Max Duration of Effectiveness
To get the maximum 8 months of flea and tick protection from your Seresto collar, there are a few steps you can take:
Keep the collar properly fitted
- Follow the package instructions for proper tightness when applying the collar initially.
- Check the fit regularly and adjust as needed.
- You should be able to slip two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck.
- Don’t allow your dog to wear a regular collar along with the Seresto collar.
Monitor the collar’s condition
- Periodically check that the collar hasn’t become damaged or broken.
- Look to make sure the collar hasn’t become loose or tightened uncomfortably.
- Examine your dog’s neck area under the collar for any irritation.
Check that it’s working
- Keep an eye out for any fleas or ticks on your dog.
- Look for signs of skin irritation that could indicate a reaction.
- Consult your vet if you notice the collar doesn’t seem to be repelling/killing parasites.
Follow all usage recommendations
- Don’t exceed 8 months of wear time.
- Replace sooner if your dog swims/bathes frequently.
- Never use more than one collar at a time.
The Takeaway on Seresto Collars
When used properly, Seresto collars can provide your dog with 8 full months of continuous flea and tick prevention. However, to get the maximum duration, there are a few key points to remember:
- Replace the collar every 8 months for most dogs.
- Dogs who swim or bathe frequently may need a replacement every 5-6 months.
- Check the collar regularly for damage and proper fit.
- Monitor your dog for any signs of fleas/ticks or skin irritation.
- Never exceed 8 months of wear time per collar.
Ask your vet if Seresto is right for your pooch. And be sure to replace the collars on schedule for unwavering defense against pesky parasites.
FAQs about Seresto collars
How soon after putting on a new Seresto collar will it start working?
It takes about 48 hours after application for the active ingredients in the Seresto collar to spread across your dog’s coat and reach optimal levels. Protection gradually builds up during this time.
Can my dog wear a regular collar along with the Seresto collar?
No, you should not allow your dog to wear another collar along with the Seresto flea and tick collar. The Seresto needs to have direct contact with your dog’s skin.
What should I do if the Seresto collar becomes loose or tight on my dog?
Check the collar fit regularly. You should be able to slip two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. If the collar becomes too loose or tight, adjust or replace it so it fits properly.
My dog swims often. How long will the Seresto work?
For dogs that swim or are bathed frequently, Seresto collars may only provide 5-6 months of flea and tick protection before needing replacement.
Can I use the Seresto collar if my dog is on other medications?
Discuss any potential medication interactions with your veterinarian before using the Seresto collar. Your vet can help determine if it’s safe for your dog.
