A new UK modelling study has estimated that routine parasite prevention in dogs and cats could prevent more than 5.5 million infections every year. The research suggests that if parasite prevention measures were followed consistently across the pet population, the number of avoided infections could rise to approximately 9.3 million annually.
The study, published in Parasites & Vectors, was carried out by researchers from Kreavet, the University of Nottingham, ESCCAP and ESCCAP UK and Ireland. It is the first UK-wide analysis to model both the health impact of parasite prevention and the associated savings in veterinary treatment costs.
Researchers used data on parasite prevalence, preventative treatment usage and veterinary care costs to compare current levels of parasite prevention with an optimal compliance scenario. Even at existing levels of use, the modelling indicates that routine parasite control already prevents millions of infections caused by fleas, ticks, roundworms and lungworms.
The findings also suggest that parasite prevention currently saves UK pet owners around £53 million in veterinary costs each year. Under optimal compliance, this figure could increase to approximately £95 million annually. Flea prevention alone was estimated to prevent more than 2.3 million infestations each year, contributing savings of over £32 million through reduced treatment and environmental management costs.
Professor Hany Elsheikha, Head of ESCCAP UK and Ireland and one of the study’s authors, highlighted that parasite prevention plays a significant role in supporting animal health, public health and household finances. The study also noted that inconsistent adherence to recommended prevention regimes remains a key factor limiting the full potential benefits.
Parasites such as fleas, ticks and worms continue to pose health risks to pets across the UK. Guidance generally emphasises the importance of preventative care that reflects an individual animal’s lifestyle, environment and exposure risks.
For over a century, Johnson’s Veterinary Products has focused on helping pet owners care for the animals that matter most to them. By keeping a close watch on emerging research and developments in animal health, Johnson’s continues support owners in making informed, responsible choices, whilst ensuring parasite prevention remains accessible to households across the UK through licensed veterinary medicines (AVM-GSL), available without prescription.
