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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Science
Helena Horton Environment reporter

Vets urged to cut back on flea treatments amid UK biodiversity fears

Person with face out of frame wearing green gloves treats a dog
A vet gives a dog an antiparasitic for ticks and fleas. Photograph: Antonio Gravante/Alamy

Vets need to stop “profiteering” by giving dogs and cats preventive flea treatments that are wiping out insects and songbirds, according to a well-known scientist.

The standard practice in the UK at present is to advise that customers take a preventative approach, treating their pets every couple of months even if they don’t have fleas.

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