How to Use a Flea & Tick Collar the Right Way

How to Use a Flea & Tick Collar the Right Way

A flea and tick collar only works as well as it's fitted. Put it on too loose, and protection weakens. Too tight, and your pet will be uncomfortable. Here's a simple, no-fuss guide to getting the most out of your pet's collar.

Step 1: Check the Size Before You Start

Before opening the packaging, confirm the collar matches your pet's neck size and weight range. The PAWKOI Flea & Tick Collar comes in two versions — one sized for dogs (62cm) and one for cats (38cm) — so double-check you have the right one for your pet.

Step 2: Unroll and Let It Settle

Collars are often coiled tightly in packaging. Unroll it and let it sit for a few minutes so it loses its "curled" shape before putting it on. This makes fitting much easier and more comfortable for your pet.

Step 3: Fit It Properly

Place the collar around your pet's neck and fasten it so you can comfortably fit two fingers between the collar and their skin. Too tight can cause irritation; too loose reduces effectiveness and increases the risk of your pet slipping out of it.

Step 4: Trim the Excess (If Needed)

Many collars, including PAWKOI's, allow you to trim excess length after fitting. Leave a couple of extra centimeters as a buffer for movement, then trim the rest so it doesn't dangle or get caught on furniture.

Step 5: Let Your Pet Adjust

It's completely normal for pets to scratch at a new collar for the first day or two — it's a new sensation, not a sign something's wrong. Most pets stop noticing it within 48 hours. If irritation continues beyond that, remove it and consult your vet.

Step 6: Maintain It Properly

  • Keep the collar on during baths — most quality collars, including PAWKOI's, are water-resistant.
  • Avoid combining it with other topical flea treatments unless advised by a vet.
  • Mark a reminder for replacement (PAWKOI collars last up to 8 months) so protection never lapses.

A Few Things to Avoid

  • Don't double up collars with heavy flea sprays — it's unnecessary and can overwhelm your pet.
  • Don't cut the collar too short — you may need slack for growth (especially in younger pets).
  • Don't ignore skin reactions — while rare with natural, non-toxic formulas, always check your pet's neck area for the first few days.

Final Tip

Once it's fitted properly, a flea and tick collar becomes a "set it and forget it" solution — no daily maintenance, no reapplying, just consistent protection for months at a time.

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