Until recently, foggers, flea collars, powders, sprays, shampoos, and dips containing organophosphates (chlorpyrifos, malathion, diazinon), pyrethrins, synthetic pyrethroids, and carbamates, were the cutting-edge solutions to our flea problems. They were effective, but unfortunately, they also caused disease and sometimes death.
Full Answer
What is the most effective flea treatment?
- Easy application. The best flea medicine for dogs will be easy to apply. ...
- Fast acting. The best flea treatment will also be fast acting; the faster it works, the faster your dog will get relief, and the sooner the problem will be under ...
- Long lasting. ...
- Lasting, the best flea treatments for dogs are waterproof. ...
- Treats other pests, too. ...
How often can I reapply topical flea medication?
Often, the best time for reapplication is 1-2weeks after the first treatment. Then, reapply inanother 1-2 weeks. If it is cold, flea pupae may not hatchfor weeks or months. Oral flea meduications are 99.9%effective when compared to topical flea preventatives.
Does topical flea treatment go into the bloodstream?
Topical flea medications work in a variety of ways (being absorbed into the skin or into the bloodstream) and they target specific parasites through different mechanisms. I have copied a reliable source (petmd.com) below which goes over some common medications used topically.
How to apply topical flea medication?
- Does my dog currently have fleas or am I simply looking for a preventive treatment?
- Will my dog be swimming or bathing while using this product?
- Is my dog exposed to areas with ticks?
- Are tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease common in my area?
- Does my dog have a history of reactions to any type of flea treatment?
Can you give topical and oral flea treatment?
The short answer is…it is not recommended in most situations. Combining different medications may increase the risk of negative side effects, adverse reactions or can lead to an overdose situation which could put your pet's life at risk.
Can you use flea spray and topical together?
You can use these products together, however there are safer and more effective products you can use to control fleas.
Can I use flea shampoo before flea treatment?
Apply Spot-on Flea Treatment If you bathe your dog before the application, there won't be enough natural oils to carry the medication deep into their skin. If you bathe them shortly after application, you'll wash the medicine away.
How do you prepare for a flea season?
Consider mowing your lawn regularly, removing tall weeds, and making it inhospitable to rodents by keeping garbage covered and inaccessible to prevent picks. Many of the same products that treat fleas also kill ticks and prevent against future infestation.
Can I use a flea collar and topical treatment at the same time?
Some flea collars, like Preventic, are generally safe to combine individually with one of the following: Frontline Plus, Revolution, Pet Armor, Frontline Top Spot or Farnam Bio Spot, K9 Advantix II, Advantage II, Trifexis, Interceptor, Certifect, or Advantage Multi.
Can you use multiple flea treatments?
Never use multiple flea medications on your pet, unless directed to do so by your veterinarian. Fleas can be a very frustrating problem, and some medications may not produce immediate effects.
Can I use flea shampoo before frontline?
Ensure your pet is totally dry before applying FRONTLINE PLUS or FRONTLINE SPRAY products. Do not bath or shampoo your dog for at least 48 hours after application of FRONTLINE PLUS or FRONTLINE SPRAY.
Should I give my dog a flea bath before applying Frontline?
If you want to bathe your pet before applying Frontline Plus, plan to do it 48 hours before treatment is due. This ensures that your pet's coat and skin are thoroughly dry so that the flea and tick control treatment will have maximum effect.
Should you bathe animals before flea treatment?
Or, give your dog a medicated flea bath or dip immediately after initial bathing. It may be advised to dry your dog first, as moisture already present on the skin can dilute medicated shampoo and render it less effective.
What month should I start flea treatment?
Most flea and tick products for puppies are not safe to use until they've reached at least seven or eight weeks of age (see chart below). Your veterinarian will be able to recommend a flea and tick preventative for puppies to safely use, and advise you on when it's safe to begin administering it to your puppy.
What months are flea and tick season?
Summer is one of the most active times for fleas and ticks, with some of the worst season being fall, in September, October, and November. Research has shown that the number of fleas on cats and dogs is 70% in the fall when compared to the spring season.
Do dogs need flea and tick medicine every month?
The best defense against fleas and ticks is to keep your dog on a year-round flea and tick preventive medication as recommended by your veterinarian. “Be sure to ask your veterinarian for advice about the safest treatment for your dog and your home,” advises Dr. Jerry Klein, AKC chief veterinary officer.
What is the best flea treatment for dogs?
Types of Safe Flea Treatments for Dogs. Veterinarians typically recommend dog flea and tick collars, topical flea and tick treatments , or oral flea and tick medications (sometimes in combination) to fully protect their patients. Here are a few of the safest flea treatments for dogs on the market today and some of their pros and cons.
How to treat fleas and ticks in dogs?
Keep in mind that no two pets are the same. Therefore, a product that’s commonly considered to be safe flea and tick prevention for dogs may be a great option for one animal and a mistake for another. Factors to consider include: 1 Age: Flea treatments must be age-appropriate; many are not made for young puppies. Look at the product’s label for this information. 2 Breed: Coat type may influence your decision. Thicker coats may be difficult for topical treatments. 3 Your pet’s health history: Other medications or supplements that you give, concurrent health conditions, and previous reactions to flea and tick preventatives should be taken into account. For example, neurologic problems have been seen in dogs when high doses of ivermectin (heartworm prevention ingredient) are given in conjunction with spinosad, a flea preventative ingredient. 4 Your pet’s lifestyle: The presence of children and other pets (especially cats) in the household and your pet’s daily activities/exposure to the outdoors are important details. 5 Where you live: Which parasites are common in your area? Is resistance to certain preventatives a concern?
What factors to consider when treating a puppy for fleas?
Factors to consider include: Age: Flea treatments must be age-appropriate; many are not made for young puppies. Look at the product’s label for this information. Breed: Coat type may influence your decision. Thicker coats may be difficult for topical treatments. Your pet’s health history: Other medications or supplements that you give, ...
Does Trifexis work against ticks?
Trifexis employs spinosad and milbemycin oxime to keep dogs protected from heartworms and intestinal parasites as well as fleas, but it does not work against ticks. Your vet will need to prescribe this treatment. Bravecto chews (it also comes as a topical) offer protection from fleas and ticks for 8-12 weeks per dose.
Can flea and tick collars be used on cats?
As is the case with flea and tick collars, if you’re unable to keep your pet away from small children or animals who may come into direct contact with the medication before it has dried or absorbed into your pet’s skin, a topical treatment might not be the ideal solution. If you have cats in your home, you will want to talk to a veterinarian ...
Do tick collars leave traces?
All flea and tick collars tend to leave traces of the chemicals that make them effective around the dog’s environment and on your pet, so this may be a concern with young children who tend to put everything in their mouths. Some dogs have had local skin reactions to the collar that have resolved when it was removed.
Is a flea collar safe for dogs?
Under many circumstances, newer dog flea collars are safe options for flea and tick control (unlike older collars, which were largely ineffective). The Seresto collar is a very popular option right now. It uses flumethrin and imidacloprid to kill fleas at multiple stages of development as well as ticks. The collar’s effectiveness lasts ...
Why are fleas resistant to topicals?
Resistance. Because some topicals have been around for years, parasites are resistant to them. Flea populations in the southeastern United States are robust; they cannot be controlled using products that have been around for decades, such as pyrethroids.
How do flea pills work?
Work on All Stages of the Flea Life Cycle. Topicals eliminate eggs, larvae, and adult parasites. When applied correctly and consistently, they can effectively combat infection. On the other hand, one must use pills alongside other measures to eliminate parasites in all life stages.
What is the best insecticide for fleas?
Spinosad. Spinosad is an insecticide that kills fleas in the adult stage of the life cycle. It works by attacking their nervous system. Spinosad is considered safe and is used in products such as Trifexis and Comfortis (chewable tablets).
How long does flea and tick treatment last for dogs?
Topical or Spot-on treatments have been around for ages. They come in various forms, such as: Topical drops - applied between the shoulders and last for 30 days. Powders and sprays - massaged into the fur on the entire body and can be used freely.
How to keep dogs from getting a parasite?
Clean Low-Traffic Areas In Your Home. When you vacuum, don’t just cover the center of the room. Parasites avoid high-traffic areas and hide in poorly lit areas near your dog’s favorite spots. Pay extra attention to baseboards, under furniture, under cushions, and anywhere else that your dog loves to hang out.
Can flea and tick pills be used on puppies?
Some flea treatments are not appropriate for puppies. It’s especially true for pyrethroids that can be toxic for puppies. Most brands have flea and tick pills for dogs with the right amount of active ingredients. Before purchasing, look at the product’s label to make sure you can use it on your dog.
Do flea and tick pills work for dogs?
Flea and Tick Pills for Dogs. While there is no single right or wrong answer for which treatment is best, some work better than others. Pills are the latest addition to treatment options because they offer convenience in application.
What to consider when choosing flea treatment for pets?
To find the best product for your pet’s needs, you’ll need to think about your pet’s age, health status, and lifestyle.
What are the side effects of flea treatment?
The most common side effects that can occur with topical flea treatments are localized skin reactions such as hair loss, itching and irritation, scabbing, and inflammation at the site where the treatment was applied. If side effects occur, wash the product off of your pet and contact your veterinarian for further treatment advice.
How many eggs can a flea lay in a day?
A single female flea can lay up to 50 eggs in a day, so even just a few fleas on your pet can quickly turn into a major problem. A prescription flea treatment will be necessary to combat the infestation and your pet will need to be treated for a minimum of three months to address the whole life cycle of the parasite.
Can fleas cause hair loss?
The most common side effects of topical flea treatments are localized skin reactions such as hair loss, redness, itching and irritation, scabbing, and inflammation. If your pet has had a history of reactions to topical medications or has skin problems such as allergies or skin infections, an oral flea treatment may be a safer option for your pet.
Does flea treatment work for cats?
Different flea treatment products contain different medications, so each product works a little differently. Some of the best topical flea treatments for cats kill adult fleas immediately on contact. Some products also contain a repellent agent so fleas will avoid jumping on your pet. Many flea treatment products also contain medications which kill ...
Can flea medication be absorbed?
Many topical flea products are not absorbed systemically. This means that the medication does not cross the skin barrier or enter your pet’s bloodstream, which can be safer for some pets with a history of reactions to certain types of medications.
Can you use flea medicine on a dog that swims?
However, most cannot withstand the best dog shampoo.
How to apply flea treatment?
How to Apply Each Brand of Topical Flea Treatment 1 Hold the tube upright and turn the cap one full turn. 2 Make sure the seal is broken but DO NOT remove the cap. 3 Cats: Part the hair at the base of the neck and apply the entire tube to the skin. You can apply to a second spot directly behind the first if there is overflow. 4 Dogs: Part the hair at the base of the neck and apply to the skin; do this in one or more spots depending on the size of your dog. For larger dogs, choose two or three spots along the spine to continue the application.
How many active ingredients are in flea prevention?
Flea preventions typically use one or two active ingredients to do the job of preventing fleas. Each brand will use different active ingredients, and these ingredients will work in different ways to prevent fleas. An overdose for most flea preventions could result in the following: Profuse drooling. Vomiting.
How long do fleas live in the environment?
Flea eggs and larvae can live in the environment for days or weeks. It is best to regularly vacuum all the locations of your home where your pet spends time, wash all bedding in hot water, and keep your pets on flea prevention.
How to apply Bravecto to cat?
Bravecto. Hold the tube upright and turn the cap one full turn. Make sure the seal is broken but DO NOT remove the cap. Cats: Part the hair at the base of the neck and apply the entire tube to the skin. You can apply to a second spot directly behind the first if there is overflow.
Where to put hair on dog?
You must part the hair so that you can apply it to the skin at the base of the neck. Read the instructions on the package; most direct you to apply it all in one spot on the neck, while a few will have you apply it to several spots along the back that the pet cannot reach (for larger dogs).
Where to apply hair spray for dogs?
You can apply to a second spot directly behind the first if there is overflow. Dogs: Part the hair at the base of the neck and apply to the skin; do this in one or more spots depending on the size of your dog. For larger dogs, choose two or three spots along the spine to continue the application.
Can you treat fleas in your home?
Your Home Hasn’t Been Treated for Fleas. In conjunction with topical flea treatments, you need to treat your home to provide the best defense against fleas. Most flea preventions do not repel fleas. Flea preventions kill fleas either by direct contact with the fleas or from the fleas feeding on your pet.
Topical flea treatment vs. oral: How to choose a flea treatment
There are so many different flea treatment products on the market today, including some of the best flea collars for dogs, so it can be tough to know what’s best for your pooch. Before you decide which product to purchase, you may want to consider some factors about your dog’s lifestyle, such as:
Benefits of topical flea treatment vs. oral
One of the major benefits of topical flea treatments is that many products are not absorbed systemically, meaning they do not cross the skin barrier or get absorbed into your pet’s blood stream.
Disadvantages of topical flea treatment vs. oral
The biggest drawback of a topical flea treatment is that it can be washed away if your pet swims or bathes frequently. Some products are waterproof once they have fully dried, while others may not stay on if your pet goes swimming. Most products will not withstand shampooing.
Is topical flea treatment safer than oral?
The safest flea treatment for your pet depends on your pet’s age, health status, and medication history. If your pet has had reactions to certain types of medication in the past, then it may be best to avoid that class of drugs in the future.
Is topical flea treatment better than oral?
Ultimately, there is no one “best” flea treatment product that works for all pets. There are many safe and effective topical and oral products available. The best product for your pet will depend on your pet’s health and lifestyle, your budget, and your own preferences.
Where to put flea treatment on dog?
Move all over your dog's body, paying special attention to areas behind the ears, collar area, tail base, armpits and belly. Make sure your dog is thoroughly dry before applying topical flea treatments.
How to treat fleas on dog?
Use spot treatment. Use an anti flea spot treatment that only requires you to completely dry one area, usually between your dog's shoulder blades, before application.
Can flea medication be used on dogs?
Ensure your dog is dry before applying topical flea medications so the medication is not diluted and to avoid requiring multiple treatments, which can result in toxicity to your dog. When drying your dog thoroughly, be careful to use low to medium heat, so as not to burn or irritate already compromised skin.
Can you use body oil on a dog collar?
The medication on the collar may require body oils to distribute. Since moisture will not impair the collar's functioning, body oil returning in the days after your dogs bath will distribute medication, although some delay in effectiveness may occur. Step. 3. Flea bath.
Can fleas be treated with oral medication?
You can also choose to use a flea treatment such as oral medication that is not affected by your dog's moisture level. Remember fleas are pesky, but treatable, and rarely cause serious complications or disease. Clean your dog's bedding and environment as well to prevent reinfestation.
Can fleas jump on humans?
While bathing his dog Rex, Mike notices some little specks crawling around on his dog, then one of them jumps onto Mike! Fleas! Fortunately, they do not infest humans but they can jump onto a human, and even bite while they are on your skin before moving on to a preferred furry host.
Can dogs get fleas?
Your dog is not going to be very happy about having fleas, they are itchy, pesky, critters. You will probably notice your dog scratching, licking and biting at his coat. The sooner you can get rid of them the better. You may need to completely dry your dog before applying the treatment and if his skin is already irritated from fleas, a thorough drying may be even more irritating, so be prepared to be understanding and gentle with your dog.
Is flea spray safe for dogs?
Today, spot-on flea preparations are considered by many as the Rolls Royce of flea products , and sell swiftly in veterinary clinics and pet stores. Each of the makers of these products claim that they are safe – safer than ever – and that only the targeted insects will be affected by the products’ neurotoxic impacts. The products are frequently advertised as safe for small children and adults as well as puppies (over eight weeks) and geriatric dogs. Do they sound too good to be true? Well, perhaps they are.
Can dogs get cancer from fleas?
Based upon toxicological studies, a dog suffering from liver, kidney, thyroid, adrenal, spleen, lung, brain or gonadal conditions could experience heightened states of chronic diseases, with the potential for development of cancer, when spot-on flea preparations are used. Permethrin is linked to malignant liver and lung tumors and autoimmune system disease, and at very low levels suppresses the immune system. Thyroid lesions have developed in laboratory studies in dogs during imidacloprid tests. Further studies are necessary to understand the possibilities of malignancy. Thyroid cancer has been linked to fipronil, according to the EPA. The data from the metabolism and chronic toxicity studies for fipronil indicate that ” . . . this is a persistent chemical and has the potential for nervous system and thyroid toxicity after long-term exposure at low levels,” according to Dr. Dobozy.
How long after bathing can you apply flea med?
I'm no expert, but there are no warnings or instructions on the topical flea med's packaging that says you can't apply till 48 hours after bathing.#N#My dogs' groomer applies the flea treatment to the dogs of some of her customers after she gives those pups their monthly baths. I'm guessing the customer doesn't feel comfortable applying it themselves for some reason.#N#I'm sure that you will get dissenting answers from some of the other members on DF. Some people say that it is the oil on the dog's skin that helps spread the flea treatment over their bodies, which is why some think that you should preferably wait 48 hours after bathing to give the dog's skin time to produce more oil.
How long does it take for flea meds to work on dogs?
Shampoo of any kind is going to remove all those natural oils from the coat and it takes 24-48 hours for a sufficient amount of oils to build back up. Most topical flea meds are water proof, but you need to wait 24-48 hours for them to be fully absorbed into your pets system.
How long after bathing a dog should you give them oil?
Some people say that it is the oil on the dog's skin that helps spread the flea treatment over their bodies, which is why some think that you should preferably wait 48 hours after bathing to give the dog's skin time to produce more oil.
