Reltix Tick & Flea Shampoo for Dogs — Vetoquinol

If your dog has been scratching non-stop, or you spotted a tick nestled into their fur after an evening walk, you already know how quickly things can escalate. Vetoquinol Reltix tick and flea shampoo for dogs is a vet-recommended, medicated anti-tick shampoo formulated with Cypermethrin 1% W/V — a clinically proven ectoparasiticide that kills ticks, fleas, and lice on contact during a single bath. In India's hot and humid climate, where dogs face peak parasite season every monsoon, having a pharmaceutical-grade anti-tick solution on hand is not optional, it is essential. Whether your dog is a Labrador happily rolling in the grass at Cubbon Park or an Indie dog who loves late-night neighbourhood walks, Reltix gives you a fast, effective, and simple first line of defence — right in your bathroom. Available on Supertails with authentic guarantee and fast home delivery across India.

What Is Vetoquinol Reltix Shampoo?

• The Active Ingredient: Cypermethrin 1% W/V: Reltix is classified as an ectoparasiticide — a pharmaceutical-grade topical treatment, not a regular grooming shampoo. Its active ingredient is Cypermethrin 1% W/V, a synthetic pyrethroid that works by disrupting the sodium channels in the nervous system of parasites, causing rapid paralysis and death. Per veterinary consensus, Cypermethrin is one of the most effective contact-kill compounds for external parasites in dogs.
• Brand Heritage: 90+ Years of Veterinary Science: Vetoquinol is a French veterinary pharmaceutical company founded in 1933, now operating across 24 countries. They entered India in 2009 and are headquartered in Bhiwandi, Thane (Maharashtra). When you buy Reltix, you are getting a product developed by a company whose entire focus is animal health — not a general consumer brand that also makes pet shampoos.

What Does Reltix Treat?

Reltix shampoo is indicated in dogs for the control and treatment of ectoparasitic infestations including ticks, fleas, lice, and mites. It is a contact-kill product, meaning it eliminates parasites present on your dog during the bath. It does not provide long-term residual prevention on its own. For ongoing protection between baths, pairing Reltix with a spot-on treatment or tick collar is recommended by vets.

Important Safety Note!

Reltix shampoo is NOT safe for puppies under 3 months of age and must NEVER be used on cats. Cypermethrin is toxic to cats. Always read the label and consult your veterinarian before first use.

How To Use Reltix Shampoo?

• Step 1 — Wet Your Dog Thoroughly: Use lukewarm water to wet your dog's entire coat, right down to the skin. Warm water helps open the hair follicles and improves product penetration.

• Step 2 — Apply Reltix Shampoo Generously: Take a generous amount of shampoo in your hand and massage it into the coat and skin to create a rich, uniform lather. Cover the entire body, paying special attention to the neck, ears, belly, tail base, and paws — areas where ticks commonly hide.

• Step 3 — Leave the Lather On for 5-10 Minutes: This is the most important step. Do not rinse immediately. The Cypermethrin needs contact time to kill parasites. Keep your dog calm and distracted with a treat or toy. Set a timer.

• Step 4 — Rinse Completely: Rinse the coat thoroughly with clean water, ensuring no shampoo residue remains. Incomplete rinsing can cause skin irritation.

• Step 5 — Dry and Monitor: Towel-dry or blow-dry your dog and check the coat visually. Dead ticks may remain on the coat and should be removed with a tick comb. Monitor your dog for any unusual skin reactions.

How Often to Use Reltix in India?

In India, parasite risk is highest during the monsoon (June–September) and peak summer (March–May). During high-risk periods, your vet may recommend using Reltix every 2 to 4 weeks as part of a broader anti-parasite protocol. Outside peak season, monthly use is typically sufficient for preventive maintenance. Always follow your veterinarian's specific guidance based on your dog's health, weight, and exposure level.

Learn more about ticks & fleas in dogs, and how to prevent them, by reading our expert-approved blog: The Ultimate Remedy for Tick and Flea Removal for Dogs

Why Does Your Dog Need Reltix All-Year-Round?

Different cities in India have their peak tick-season at different times of the year. The table below will help you understand when you have to use Reltix based on your city.

 

Which Indian Dog Breeds Need Anti-Tick Shampoo Most?

In India, certain breeds face higher tick and flea risk due to coat type, outdoor habits, and regional lifestyle. Labradors and Golden Retrievers have dense double coats that are ideal hiding spots for ticks after outdoor play. German Shepherds, Beagles, and Indie dogs that spend time outdoors are highly exposed. Long-coated dogs like Shih Tzus, Pomeranians, and Cocker Spaniels can harbour ticks for days before they are discovered. Reltix's deep-penetrating lather works effectively across all coat types, making it suitable for any breed. Per veterinary guidance, all dogs in Indian cities with outdoor access benefit from a regular anti-tick shampoo routine (per veterinary consensus, Indian Veterinary Association guidelines 2024).

Reltix Vs Other Tick Shampoos — Which One Is Right For Your Dog?

• Pharmaceutical vs Herbal: Knowing the Difference: India's pet care market offers two categories of anti-tick shampoos: pharmaceutical-grade (like Reltix) and herbal/natural formulations (like Himalaya Erina-EP). Both have their place, but they serve different levels of infestation. If you are dealing with a mild, occasional flea or tick issue on a dog with sensitive skin, a herbal shampoo is a reasonable choice. If your dog has a visible tick infestation, especially after monsoon trekking or heavy outdoor exposure, a Cypermethrin-based medicated shampoo like Reltix is what your vet will recommend.

 

The Complete Tick Protection Plan For Indian Dogs

Reltix shampoo is a powerful first step, but a truly tick-free dog in India requires a layered approach. Here is how vets typically structure a complete parasite protection protocol:

• Layer 1: Reltix Shampoo (Bath-Time Kill) - Use Reltix every 2-4 weeks to eliminate existing ticks, fleas, and lice. This is your active kill layer. Supertails stocks Vetoquinol Reltix with fast delivery, so you can stay consistent without running out.
• Layer 2: Spot-On Treatments (Residual Protection) - Apply a vet-recommended spot-on treatment between baths for residual protection. Options like Vetoquinol Imidospot provide 4-week protection after each application and work even while your dog swims or gets wet in the monsoon rain. Browse Supertails' full range of dog spot-on treatments.
• Layer 3: Tick Collar (Continuous Barrier) - A tick collar provides continuous repellent action — ideal for dogs with high outdoor exposure. Available in 8-week to 8-month variants. Explore tick and flea collars for dogs on Supertails.
• Layer 4: Home Environment Treatment - Ticks and flea eggs live in carpets, sofa cushions, and dog bedding — not just on your dog. Vacuum regularly, wash your dog's bedding in hot water weekly during monsoon season, and consider a pet-safe home spray for serious infestations.

You Might Also Be Interested In…

• Our collection of Dog Tick Flea Remedies

• Our collection of Cat Tick Flea Remedies

Protecting your dog from the discomfort of ticks and fleas is a year-round priority in India’s tropical climate. Vetoquinol Reltix Shampoo provides the clinical-grade power needed to eliminate parasites on contact, ensuring your home stays pest-free and your pet stays comfortable. Order today on Supertails to experience the peace of mind that comes with vet-recommended care, plus free delivery on orders above ₹699. Benefit from 24-hour delivery in select cities and 30-minute delivery in Bangalore, Delhi, and Mumbai.

FAQs

What is Vetoquinol Reltix shampoo used for in dogs?

Vetoquinol Reltix is a medicated anti-tick and flea shampoo for dogs. It is used to treat and control ectoparasitic infestations of ticks, fleas, and lice. The active ingredient Cypermethrin 1% W/V kills parasites on contact during the bath. It must not be used on puppies under 3 months of age or on cats.

How do I use Reltix shampoo on my dog?

Wet your dog thoroughly with lukewarm water. Apply Reltix shampoo generously and massage into the coat to form a uniform lather. Leave the lather on for 5 to 10 minutes — this contact time is essential for the active ingredient to work. Rinse thoroughly and dry your dog. Use as directed by your veterinarian.

Is Reltix shampoo safe for puppies?

No. Reltix shampoo must NOT be used on puppies under 3 months of age. It is also unsafe for cats. Young, sick, pregnant, or debilitated dogs should only be treated under direct veterinary supervision. If your puppy has ticks, consult your vet for a puppy-safe alternative.

How long does Reltix take to kill ticks?

Reltix begins working on contact. The 5-10 minute lather period allows the Cypermethrin to penetrate and kill ticks, fleas, and lice during the bath. Most dog parents in India report visible results after the first wash, though repeat treatment may be needed for heavy infestations.

Can Reltix shampoo be used on cats?

Absolutely not. Reltix contains Cypermethrin, which is toxic to cats. Never use Reltix on a cat. If you have both dogs and cats, keep them separated during and after the dog's bath until the coat is fully dry. For cats, use a vet-recommended cat-specific anti-parasite shampoo instead.

How often should I use Reltix in India?

In India's monsoon season (June–September) and summer (March–May), vets typically recommend using Reltix every 2 to 4 weeks due to elevated tick risk. Outside peak season, monthly use is sufficient for preventive care. Your veterinarian will advise the ideal frequency based on your dog's specific exposure and health.

What is Cypermethrin and is it safe for dogs?

Cypermethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid — a class of insecticides derived from natural pyrethrins. It works by disrupting sodium channels in parasite nerve cells, causing paralysis and death. At the concentration used in Reltix (1% W/V), it is considered safe for healthy adult dogs when used as directed. It is not safe for cats, puppies under 3 months, or animals with certain health conditions (per veterinary consensus).

What is the difference between Reltix and Himalaya Erina-EP?

Reltix is a pharmaceutical-grade medicated shampoo with Cypermethrin — it provides rapid, contact-kill action and is best for active or heavy infestations. Himalaya Erina-EP is a herbal shampoo using Neem and Eucalyptus, better suited for mild infestations or sensitive dogs. For serious tick problems, especially during Indian monsoon, Reltix is the vet-recommended choice.

Does Reltix prevent ticks long-term?

Reltix is a contact-kill product — it eliminates parasites present during the bath. It does not provide long-lasting residual prevention on its own. For continuous protection between baths, pair Reltix with a spot-on treatment (like Vetoquinol Imidospot) and consider adding a tick collar for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.

Which Indian dog breeds are most at risk from ticks?

In India, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Indie dogs, Shih Tzus, and Pomeranians are among the breeds most commonly affected. Dogs in humid cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata face year-round risk, particularly after outdoor walks, park visits, or travel during monsoon season.

Are there side effects of Reltix shampoo for dogs?

Reltix is generally well-tolerated. Some dogs may experience mild skin irritation, temporary redness, or itching. Avoid contact with the eyes, mouth, and any open wounds. If your dog shows signs of distress — excessive salivation, tremors, or lethargy — stop use immediately and contact your veterinarian. These reactions are rare but should be taken seriously.

Is Vetoquinol a trustworthy brand for parasite treatment in India?

Yes. Vetoquinol is a French veterinary pharmaceutical company with over 90 years of history, present in 24 countries. They have operated in India since 2009 with a dedicated India office in Bhiwandi, Thane. Reltix is a vet-recommended product and is available through licensed veterinary pharmacies and authorised online retailers like Supertails.