Evaluation of a multi-compound formel-Z Complex for tick infestation in 105 cats and dogs: A veterinary questionnaire study in Germany

Ticks continue to spread worldwide and are becoming increasingly resistant due to the continued use of pure acaricides. As a result, natural anti-tick treatments containing repellent compounds are gaining relevance [1].

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the standardized thiamine-yeast complex in Formel-Z on tick infestation in dogs and cats over the course of a full tick season in a multicenter study with 23 German veterinary practices.

For this purpose, the average number of free and attached ticks was recorded through owner observation before and after the beginning of the daily administration of the natural complex (167.85 mg/kg body weight/day, as per product specifications). A total of 85 dogs and 20 cats of different breeds, all with moderately long fur, were included in this study.

The weekly number of free ticks on dogs was significantly reduced by 70.11% after the administration of Formel-Z (p<0.0001). Also, the number of attached ticks showed a significant decrease by 79.01% (p<0.0001). For cats, the weekly number of free ticks was significantly reduced by 57.01% (p=0.021), while the number of attached ticks was significantly decreased by 76.02% after the administration of Formel-Z (p=0.014; [Fig. 1]). In addition, a significant improvement in coat condition and skin health of dogs and cats has been reported due to the intake of Formel-Z.

Fig. 1  Average number of free or attached ticks on dogs or cats before and after administration of the standardized yeast-thiamine complex (Formel-Z);* p<0.05;**** p<0.0001

In summary, the results confirm the efficacy of the standardized natural yeast-thiamine complex in Formel-Z for the prevention of tick infestation likely due to a repellent effect, observed in both dogs and cats [2].

Publication History

Article published online:
05 March 2026

• References

• 1 Lingeman DG, O’Dell KL, Syed Z.. Developing attractants and repellents for ticks: promises and challenges. Curr Opin Insect Sci 2024; 63: 101181
• 2 Schramm E, Weimer-Hartmann S.. Effects of a standardized natural yeast-thiamine-complex in 34 dogs with tick infestation. Planta Med 2019; 85: 1430