Updated 15 May 2026
Australia’s diverse climate hosts many parasites that can infect our pets, including ticks, fleas, mites, intestinal worms and heartworm. While the cold weather may reduce some parasite activity, it doesn’t completely eliminate the risk of infection. In fact, depending on where you live and/or if you travel with your pet, your dog and cat will be at risk of many, if not all, of these parasites throughout the year.
Fleas
Fleas thrive in warm environments, and in winter our heated homes become an ideal flea breeding ground. Some fleas may lie dormant over winter followed by a population explosion in spring and summer, so there is no month of the year to be complacent when it comes to fleas! Flea bites can cause intense itching often resulting in skin irritations and secondary infections. Fleas can also transmit a number of diseases, most of which can infect humans; another reason to protect your pet!
Ticks
Ticks can be active at any time of year, including the deadly paralysis tick found along the east coast. Tick protection is recommended for dogs and cats all year round in areas where these parasites occur, or if your pet is travelling to a tick region. Tick bites can cause serious diseases in dogs and cats, and the paralysis tick produces a toxin causing paralysis and death within days.
Intestinal Worms
Intestinal worms such as roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and whipworms are also a risk to pets throughout the year. Dogs and cats can be infected from contaminated soil, other animals including prey, and even from grooming themselves. Intestinal worms can not only make your pet unwell, but some of these worms are zoonotic, meaning the worm eggs shed in your pet’s faeces can infect humans and may cause disease. Therefore, it’s important to deworm dogs and cats monthly to not only keep your pet healthy but your family as well.
Heartworms
Heartworms are transmitted to dogs and cats through mosquito bites, and while we may see less mosquitoes over winter, they don’t disappear entirely. A heartworm infestation in your pet can cause severe damage to the heart, lungs and associated blood vessels. In dogs, there are often no clinical signs early on, but as the disease progresses severe signs of heart failure may be seen. Protection is required for both dogs and cats living in areas where heartworm has been identified.
Protect your pet year-round
Maintaining parasite protection during the colder months ensures your pet stays protected against these harmful parasites as well as minimises your family’s risk of zoonotic disease. It’s a simple action to give year-round confidence.
NexGard SPECTRA® makes parasite protection easy. It provides the most complete protection against fleas, ticks, mites, heartworm and intestinal worms, all in one easy, monthly treatment.
See product labels for full claim details and directions for use.
About the Author
Petbarn Team
At Petbarn, we believe that life is better with pets. From high quality products to trusted advice, we're here to provide you with everything you need to care for your furred, feathered, and finned friends.
