P
arasites are an often-overlooked threat in pet care, especially for cats, as infestations can cause serious health issues for both pets and humans.
According to Boehringer Ingelheim Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia (MSI) Head of Animal Health Dr Kam Kok Yen, parasites in pets pose more than just discomfort—they present serious health risks and are highly prevalent in cats across Asia.
“Due to their behaviour and lifestyle, cats are particularly vulnerable to a range of internal and external parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and worms. These are not just nuisances but can also lead to serious health complications.
He said a recent epidemiological study of over 1,000 cats in Eastern and Southeast Asia found that 43 per cent of pet cats are affected by external parasites like fleas, ticks, and mites, while 14 per cent harbours deadly internal parasites such as hookworms, roundworms, and heartworms.
"These findings underscore the pressing need for comprehensive, routine parasite prevention among pet cats," he said in a statement.
Dr Kam noted that studies in Malaysia have highlighted the widespread threat parasites pose to the cat population.
“Blood-feeding hookworms are common parasites and can cause severe health issues in cats. Additionally, 89 per cent of cats in the study were infested with fleas, leading to discomfort and potential disease transmission.
“Lice infest one in 10 cats, leading to irritation, fur loss, and secondary skin infections, while ear mites were found in nearly one in five cats. These mites are a major cause of ear infections, leading to itchiness, inflammation, and swelling.
"However, Malaysia also lags behind many other regions in terms of preventive care, with less than 40 per cent of cats protected against internal parasites and fewer than one-third protected against external parasites," he added.
Dr Kam said a common misconception among cat owners is that indoor cats are safe from parasites.
"While indoor environments might reduce a cat’s direct exposure to outdoor threats, they are by no means free from risk.
"Fleas, ticks, and other parasite eggs can easily be brought into the home on clothing, shoes, or other pets, exposing indoor cats to these external threats.
"Indoor cats are also susceptible to internal parasites, such as roundworms and tapeworms, through accidental ingestion or exposure to contaminated food and surfaces," he explained.
THE ROLE OF PREVENTATIVE CARE
With advancements in veterinary medicine, pet owners now have access to effective solutions, such as Boehringer Ingelheim's NexGard® COMBO for cats. This groundbreaking, easy-to-apply formula provides broad-spectrum protection against both internal and external parasites, said Dr Kam.
"This is where comprehensive parasite prevention, like NexGard® COMBO for cats, plays a vital role. Unlike many traditional treatments, NexGard® COMBO offers protection against both internal and external parasites.
"Its unique combination of eprinomectin, praziquantel, and the next generation antiparasitic ingredient esafoxolaner ensures broad-spectrum coverage that includes fleas, ticks, ear mites, and dangerous internal parasites such as heartworm, roundworm, and tapeworm.
"Its new formulation is the only broad-spectrum feline topical that kills tapeworms, making it a one-of-a-kind preventative for cats," he emphasised.
As pet ownership continues to grow across the region, he highlighted the need to shift from reactive treatments to preventive care.
"NexGard® COMBO allows cat owners to take this proactive step with ease and confidence, ensuring comprehensive protection against both internal and external parasites that can jeopardise the health of both their pets and their families," he said.
PREVENT PARASITE INFECTIONS IN CATS
Dr Kam also provided practical guidance for pet owners to protect their cats and themselves from parasite-related health risks. Effective parasite prevention involves a combination of regular treatment and proactive habits.
He said consistent use of a reliable parasiticide is essential and products like NexGard® COMBO simplify the process by offering once-a-month protection in an easy-to-apply formula.
"Regular application reduces the risk of parasite infestations, which is key to keeping infections at bay.
“In addition, frequent grooming not only maintains coat health but also allows for early detection of parasites like fleas and ticks, preventing severe infestations.
"Regularly washing pet bedding, toys, and food dishes, along with vacuuming carpets and upholstery, can help remove any lingering parasite eggs and reduce the risk of an infestation, as well as limit your pet’s exposure to parasite-prone areas if possible.
"For owners who enjoy taking their cats outdoors on leashes or to enclosed gardens, adhering to a parasite prevention regimen becomes even more critical. Regular veterinary checkups allow for professional assessment and early detection of any potential issues, as well as ensure that your pet receives the right parasiticide," he said.
PREVENTION AS THE NEW STANDARD IN PET CARE
Meanwhile, Veterinary Parasitology specialist Prof Dr Rebecca J. Traub emphasised the importance of shifting from reactive treatments to preventive care, as misconceptions about parasites remain widespread.
She pointed out that many owners mistakenly believe cats only need treatment when symptoms appear or that parasites will resolve on their own.
"Unfortunately, by the time symptoms become visible, many infections are already advanced, leading to more serious complications.
"The proactive approach advocated by products like NexGard® COMBO not only preserves a cat’s health but also contributes to the well-being of humans who share close spaces with their pets," she said at the launch of the NexGard® COMBO recently.
Dr Kam reiterated Boehringer Ingelheim’s commitment to setting a new standard in feline parasite control by providing pet owners with an accessible and highly effective solution to protect their cats from a broad range of parasites.
"This advanced product combines the most effective parasiticides available, making it an ideal choice for indoor and outdoor cats alike.
"By taking these proactive steps, pet owners can ensure a happier, healthier life for their feline companions and safeguard their own health from zoonotic risks.
"Parasite prevention is no longer just an option; it’s a necessary component of responsible pet ownership and essential to the well-being of both pets and their families," he said.
