Treatment FAQ

what type of flea treatment for both cats and dogs

by Grace Wisozk MD Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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The types of pests each medication treats

Formula Fleas American dog ticks Brown dog ticks Lone star ticks
Bravecto Chew for Dogs yes yes yes yes*
Bravecto Topical Solution for Dogs yes yes yes yes*
Bravecto Topical Solution for Cats yes yes* no no
Bravecto Plus for Cats yes no no no
Jul 1 2022

Fox says that the most effective treatment for both cats and dogs are oral and topical flea medications. At her practice, they often prescribe Capstar to kill off all the adult fleas. Oral flea medications have a 99 percent effectiveness rate, while topical medications have an 88 percent effectiveness rate.Oct 8, 2019

Full Answer

What is the best remedy for dog fleas?

Some of the plants you can try to help you get rid of fleas on dogs naturally include:

  • pennyroyal
  • lavender
  • clove
  • spearmint
  • thyme
  • chrysanthemums

Can cats take Flea and tick medication for dogs?

Most feline flea and tick medications can be given to both your dog and cat. However, to be safe, you should consult your veterinarian to make sure.

What do fleas do to cats and dogs?

Siphonaptera Species that Affect Dogs and Cats

  • Cat Fleas. The most common species of fleas found on household dogs and cats in North America is the domestic cat flea.
  • Dog Fleas. The scientific name for the common dog flea is Ctenocephalides canis. ...
  • Other Flea Species. There are a few other species of fleas that will feed off of dogs and cats if their preferred host species is not available.

What is the best over the counter flea treatment for dogs?

  • Frontline Plus.
  • Advantage® II.
  • Capstar.
  • Flea Away.
  • Seresto.
  • Frontline Flea Spray.
  • Natural Chemistry Squeeze-On for Pets.
  • Flea Busters.
  • Advantage Yard & Premise Spray.
  • De Flea Pet Shampoo.

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What flea medicine can be used for both cats and dogs?

Comfortis is the FDA-approved chewable, beef-flavored tablet that kills fleas and prevents flea infestations on dogs and cats for a full month.

Can you use the same flea treatment on cats and dogs?

The safest answer is no. We strongly recommend to carefully read the instructions of any product you intend to apply to your pet, as many supermarket dog flea treatments are extremely toxic to cats.

What flea treatments can be used together?

Either Capstar or Comfortis can be combined individually with a variety of other flea and tick medications including one of the following: K9 Advantix II, Frontline Plus for Dogs, Advantage II for Dogs, Revolution for dogs, Pet Armor for Dogs, Advantage Multi, Frontline Top Spot for Dogs, Sentinel, or Farnam Bio Spot ...

Is flea treatment different for cats and dogs?

Keep an eye on cats after a dog is treated, as cats may lick or rub against the area you treated on the dog. The difference between flea control products for dogs and cats is a chemical called permethrin. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, this chemical is very safe for dogs and is common in flea sprays and drops.

Is Frontline for dogs and cats the same?

Despite the fact that fipronil and methoprene are approved for use on both dogs and cats, there is a major difference between the two types of Frontline Plus. Comparing the two products, Frontline Plus for Cats has a higher concentration of active ingredients than the dog version.

Is Frontline Plus for dogs safe around cats?

0:451:45Can Frontline Plus for Dogs Be Used on Cats? - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo they can't get back and and lick that area. And so again it's monthly it's very safe but makeMoreSo they can't get back and and lick that area. And so again it's monthly it's very safe but make sure you're using the correct product for cat versus dog.

Can I give my cat Capstar and frontline?

Combining Oral Flea Treatment However, it is usually not safe to use more than one treatment but at the same time, you can combine Capstar with Frontline Plus. As Capstar only kills adult fleas whereas Frontline Plus not only kills juvenile form of fleas but also eliminates ticks by providing month-long protection.

Is Frontline or Advantage better for cats?

FRONTLINE PUS FOR CATS HAS THE SAME EFFECTIVENESS AS FRONTLINE PLUS FOR DOGS EXCEPT THAT IT DOES NOT WORK IN ELIMINATING TICKS. SO, IF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT TICKS ON YOUR FURRY PAL THEN FRONTLINE PLUS IS THE BEST OPTION. WHILE IF ADULT FLEAS, FLEA LARVAE AND CHEWING LICE IS YOU CONCERN THEN YOU CAN OPT FOR ADVANTAGE.

Can I use Capstar and Seresto together?

Yes, you absolutely can. Hopefully you only need a few days of the Capstar until your Seresto collar kicks in, but they are perfectly safe to use at the same time.

Can you use Advantage 2 for cats on dogs?

No, do not use Advantage® II for cats on dogs. Please follow label directions for the application of our flea products.

Can dogs and cats use the same flea collar?

Talk to your veterinarian about the safest type of flea and tick medications to use on your cats and dogs. If you own both species, you should separate your dog from his buddy cat until the spot-on product is completely dried so you can prevent chemical exposure to your cat.

Can I use PetArmor plus for cats on my dog?

PetArmor® Plus for Cats is available in one weight break for cats and kittens weighing 1.5 pounds and over. DO NOT attempt to split doses between cats. DO NOT USE THIS PRODUCT ON DOGS. Be sure to choose cat products for cats and dog products for dogs.

What is the best flea repellent for dogs?

Oral medications only target adult fleas and only kill them if they bite your animal. For dogs, most veterinarians recommend NexGard , K9 Advantix II, or Frontline Plus. For cats, most veterinarians recommend Frontline Plus, Revolution, Advantage II, or Seresto collars.

How old do cats need to be to take flea medicine?

Animals that are over four weeks old can generally be given flea medications like Frontline Plus, Revolution, or Capstar. As with any treatment, you should read the package instructions and consult your veterinarian when giving the medication to your cat or dog.

How much has flea allergy dermatitis increased in dogs?

Banfield's 2018 State of Pet Health Report found that flea-allergy dermatitis has been on the rise over the past 10 years, with a 12 percent increase in dogs and a 67 percent increase in cats.

Can fleas be removed from cats?

Most topical or oral medications are toxic for newborn kittens and puppies, explains Dr. Fox, but a flea bath can remove adult fleas.

Does Capstar kill fleas?

At her practice, they often prescribe Capstar to kill off all the adult fleas. Oral flea medications have a 99 percent effectiveness rate, while topical medications have an 88 percent effectiveness rate.

Can fleas cause disease in pets?

What's more, they can also be the cause of serious disease in our pets : Animals that ingest a flea, such as a cat when she is cleaning her fur, could become infected with a tapeworm. Tapeworms steal vital nutrients from our pets, and can prove life-threatening to young and elderly animals.

Is it important to treat your pet for fleas?

When it comes to treating our pets for fleas, it is important to be proactive. "The saying is that if you see one flea, there are bound to be thousands more in your environment," explains Dr. Fox. "You'll want to treat your animal for fleas but also where they sleep and play.".

What to consider when choosing a flea treatment?

When choosing a flea treatment, don’t just grab the first product you see on the shelf; consider their differences. Treating fleas is not a one-and-done process—in addition to treating the pet, you’ll also need to treat its bedding and perhaps even your home.

What is flea powder used for?

Powders. Flea powders are used mainly in the home rather than on a dog or a cat. They feature a variety of insecticides, both chemical and natural. Typically, you sprinkle the powder on carpets and upholstery, brush it in, and allow it to remain there for a few hours or longer before vacuuming.

How long does Tropiclean flea and tick shampoo last?

With a handful of natural insecticides and repellents, including lemongrass oil, cedarwood oil, and clove oil, Tropiclean Flea & Tick Shampoo for Dogs kills both fleas and ticks on contact and will continue to repel the little buggers for up to 7 days. It’s designed for use on dogs older than 12 weeks.

How do flea pills work?

Oral meds, known generically as “flea pills,” work by dispersing a systemic insecticide in your pet’s bloodstream after ingestion. When a flea bites your pet, the chemical enters the flea’s system and kills it.

How long does a Bayer flea collar last?

The Bayer Seresto Flea and Tick Collar for Cats will protect your feline for up to 8 months, and it features three visibility reflectors that shine in the dark to alert you (and motorists) to the presence of your cat.

How long does it take for Capstar to kill fleas?

Consider Capstar Fast-Acting Flea Treatment for Cats as a safe treatment for fleas on felines. The product is designed to start killing fleas within 30 minutes of being eaten. This flea-only medication (not intended to kill ticks) can be administered up to once per day—or whenever you notice fleas on your cat.

What to do if your dog is irritated by a sneeze?

If you’re trying a new treatment for the first time, though, keep a close eye on your pet. If your pet develops any unusual symptoms, including skin irritation, sneezing, watery eyes, or changes in behavior, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian. Best Overall For Dogs. 1.

Why Should You Buy Flea Medicine?

As climatic conditions turn a little warmer, fleas’ and ticks’ emergence starts in large numbers. Preventing a canine or feline from fleas becomes the priority task as summers set in. These bugs can lead to a greater nuisance that might trouble your furry animal.

How Does Flea Medicine Work?

Fleas are treatable with various methods like spot-on treatment or oral medications to animals that got affected. In case of spot-on treatment, individuals should apply a specific therapy on their fur buddies’ bodies where they couldn’t reach with their mouths.

How Does Oral Flea Medicine Work?

Oral flea medicine comes as chewable pills that are ingestible by a pet comfortably. Meaning no more hassle of spreading or applying a medicine. When a tick bites your fluff mate, the therapy gets transmitted to that parasite and poisons it to death. Furthermore, certain oral medications get absorbed into an animal’s bloodstream.

Does Flea Medicine Expire?

Flea medications don’t arrive with any expiry date. However, they appear stamped with their manufactured date and their effective usage for up to 2 years, in general. Meaning, individuals can still use them, but their potential in killing insects is not so good and reduced. Apart from that, do note to see where such a manufacturing date is present.

How Long Does it Take for Flea Medicine to Work?

Various flea and tick meds are available in the market. And a pet can be treatable in a number of ways. However, the desired results depend on what type of treatment a person is employing. Many oral treatments would start working in 30 minutes to 1 hour. In case of a spot-on treatment, it yields results in 24 hours.

Flea and Tick Treatment Methods

It is also popular as a “spot-on” method that works well for flea and tick control. When applied in between a pet’s shoulder blades, this medication can get licked off by them. Moreover, these medications generally last for a month, sometimes by killing and sometimes by repelling mosquitoes.

Oral Vs. Topical Flea Medicine Treatments

Oral flea pills are quite easier and give many efficient outcomes as compared to topical flea medications. These are feedable by your paw mates easily without demanding any effort. This kind of treatment provides full-body protection to them. As a flea or tick bites a pet, they get poisoned by toxins and die.

What is the best way to kill fleas in cats?

Delivery Method . Flea treatments for cats may come as shampoos, dips, sprays, bombs, powders, spot-ons, orals, collars, combs, and even injections. Some delivery methods are only appropriate for killing live fleas while others will help prevent a flea from being able to reproduce.

What is the best flea collar for cats?

Our top pick is this collar from Bayer, which is effective for a full eight months and offers continuous protection from fleas and ticks. The active ingredients in the collar are released in low concentrations, protecting your cat and killing fleas on contact with the skin. The formulation is odorless and non-greasy, and is also effective against flea eggs and larvae, preventing infestations before they happen.

How long does it take for Comfortis to kill fleas?

Does not protect against any other parasites. Flea prevention for up to one month in cats and kittens 14 weeks and older can be found in the chewable tablet option called Comfortis. This tablet works very quickly to kill fleas in as few as 30 minutes and can be crushed and mixed in your cat’s wet food if necessary.

What does it mean when a cat has fleas?

Cats that have fleas are often very itchy and may have hair loss, skin redness, and even scabs. The hair loss is often most prevalent at the base of the tail but can occur anywhere. Flea dirt, which is the black flea feces, can be seen in the fur.

Can you use pyrethroids on cats?

Avoid using pyrethroids in cats as they can be toxic. These are more commonly found in some dog flea treatment products, but are still occasionally seen in cat products. Pyrethrins and permethrin products can also be dangerous to use in cats, but each cat has a different level of sensitivity.

Can flea treatments kill live fleas?

Additionally, some products will kill live fleas while others will only prevent a flea from reproducing, so not all products are appropriate for all your flea needs. Flea treatments can be used as needed if your cat gets fleas and preventatives can be given to help prevent your cat from getting fleas. Due to the potential side effects of flea ...

Can a cat get fleas from a spruce tree?

The Spruce. Fleas are not only a nuisance but they can also transmit serious diseases to your cats. Thankfully, various flea preventatives and treatments are available to help limit your cat’s chances of attracting and harboring these external parasites. However, they aren’t all created equally. Some flea treatments aren’t even effective ...

How long does it take for flea tablets to work on cats?

However, once administered, these products do work quickly—generally, within about 12 hours. Here are some flea tablets you can try for cats: Capstar.

How long does it take for fleas to get out of your house?

You can speed up the process by doing all you can to physically remove those eggs and larvae, but in most instances, it can take up to four months to completely clear a household of fleas. In warmer climates, the life cycle of the flea is faster, and in cooler climates, it is slower.

How long does a flea collar last?

It works within 24 hours, and the fleas do not even need to bite your cat to be killed.

How many fleas are there in the environment?

It is important to remember, however, that for every LIVE flea that you find, there are up to 10,000 more “fleas in waiting” in the environment, and they come in the form of eggs, larvae, and pupae waiting to feed.\

Can fleas kill cats?

If a cat has a reaction to the product, there is no real way to eliminate the medication from the system (unlike collars that can be removed and topicals that can be washed off). With oral flea products, the fleas must bite cats in order to be killed; they aren’t killed upon contact.

Can cats get fleas?

For many cats, the name of the game when it comes to fleas is subtlety. If you’re thinking your cat can’t have fleas because they don’t go outside, you’ll be surprised to know that even indoor-only cats can get fleas. In fact, it often seems that you see just as many flea cases in indoor cats that are not on flea medication as you do on outdoor ...

Can you use flea medicine on a cat?

Use Only Flea Treatments That Are Made for Cats. Cats are much more sensitive to medications than some other species (such as dogs), so you should not assume that if you can use it on your dog, you can use it on your cat. Many cats have died from this misconception. Additionally, not all medications labelled “for cats” are as safe ...

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