Why Can’t I Use Dog Flea Medicine On Cats?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Clare Guichard, who practices at Lakeview Veterinary Hospital. “ Cats can’t process those medications the same way a dog would . So even if you were use just a small drop of your dog’s topical flea prevention on a cat, their body is not going to be able to metabolize it and they can get very serious side effects.” Dr.

Can you put flea treatment for a dog on a cat?

“We’ve seen several cases of accidental toxicity to dog flea and tick medication in cats,” Gordon notes. “ Using any flea or tick medications meant for dogs on cats (or animals other than dogs), is dangerous and can result in sickness, permanent damage or even death .”

Can I use dog Frontline on my cat?

What flea treatment is safe for cats?

  • Advantage® II (topical liquid)
  • Advantage MULTI® (topical liquid, also protects cats from heartworms, ear mites, and some types of intestinal worms)
  • Bravecto® (topical liquid, also protects cats from certain tick species)

Is there a difference between cat and dog flea treatment?

There’s a very important difference between flea and tick products made for cats versus ones for dogs . It’s very important to never apply a dog product on a cat. Seizures and even death can occur if it is applied to a cat.

Can I use dog advantage on my cat?

Can I apply Advantage ® II for dogs on my cats? No, do not use Advantage ® II for dogs on cats .

Do dog fleas live on cats?

Despite their names, the most common flea found on dogs and cats is the cat flea. That’s because fleas are not host specific, meaning that while their preferred host is a cat or dog, they will both happily feed on either cats or dogs, and sometimes humans !

Which dog flea treatment is toxic to cats?

Permethrin is used in some flea spot-on products made for dogs, and occasionally (in lower doses) in flea powders and collars for cats. Unfortunately, exposure to concentrated permethrin (as in some dog spot-ons) can result in serious illness and even death in cats.

Are flea pills safe for cats?

Oral Flea Medication for Cats

If you are worried about exposing other members of the household to flea medications, products that are given orally are a good choice. Comfortis is a prescription monthly chewable option that’s safe for cats 14 weeks of age and older and 4.1 pounds and up .

What kills fleas on cats instantly?

The pill nitenpyram (Capstar) kills adult fleas on your cat within 30 minutes. It doesn’t have any lasting effects, though. Spinosad (Comfortis) is a fast-acting chewable that starts killing fleas before they lay eggs.

Is Frontline Plus for cats safe?

Cat Safe Flea and Tick Medications

Frontline, which has a main active ingredient called fipronil, is available over the counter and is safe for cats when the cat-specific product is purchased .

Can’t get rid of my cats fleas?

  1. Start with the right flea treatment for your cat. ...
  2. Clean your pet’s bedding. ...
  3. Wash everything else. ...
  4. Vacuum, vacuum again and then vacuum a bit more. ...
  5. Clean your vacuum. ...
  6. Spray or fog your home. ...
  7. Preventing fleas after you’ve tackled an infestation.

Can I use dog revolution on cats?

One dose of Revolution® for Extra Large Dogs provides enough selamectin to treat 24 kittens or 8 cats . Please note that Revolution® is a prescription medication regulated by the FDA and must be prescribed by a veterinarian.

Do fleas prefer cats or dogs?

Dog fleas prefer dogs . Cat fleas (Ctenocephalides felis) . Cat fleas prefer cats, but they are the most common flea found on dogs and people, too!

Can I use Frontline Plus for cats on small dog?

Can FRONTLINE PLUS or FRONTLINE SPRAY be used on pets other than cats or dogs? No, FRONTLINE PLUS and FRONTLINE SPRAY should only be used on dogs and cats .

Can I put another flea treatment on my cat?

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 large cat flea treatment on small cat?

Use only on cats or kittens 8 weeks and older. Do not apply to cats or kittens weighing less than 2 lbs . Do not use on other animals.

Can I use advantage for small cats on a large cat?

Advantage II for cats is available in three products, each corresponding to specific weight ranges. There is one for kittens (2 to 5 lbs), small cats (5 to 9 lbs), and large cats (over 9 lbs) . The dosage is higher for heavier cats. See the dosage by weight chart below.

Do fleas live in cat litter?

The first thing you may be wondering is, “Can fleas live in cat litter?” Unfortunately, the answer is yes; fleas thrive in humid environments like your cat’s litter box.

How did my indoor cat get fleas?

A neighbor: If you live in an apartment complex or other housing with shared space, your cat may encounter fleas simply through other infested pets that live in close proximity . Another pet: If you have other pets that go outside, such as a dog or even a more adventurous cat, they can bring fleas into the home.

Where do fleas hide on cats?

Turn your cat on his back and check areas that allow fleas to hide. The armpits and groin are two areas that are warm and protected; favored spots for fleas to hide out. Check your cat’s ears carefully for signs of scratching, redness, blood, or dirt. These can all be signs of fleas.

Why is my cat acting weird after flea treatment?

If your cat is acting weird after flea treatment application, you will need to consider the possibility of flea treatment poisoning . It is possible the cat will have ingested a small amount and will react disgustedly. However, if they have ingested enough it can pose a serious risk to their health.

What if my cat licks the flea medicine?

If an animal is able to lick the product when it is wet on the fur or scratches the area and then licks their foot, the bitter taste of the product can cause the animal to salivate, foam at the mouth, become nauseous or vomit . Also, some cats have been known to become agitated and run around the house.

Is Frontline Plus safe for kittens?

The good news is that Frontline Plus can be used safely on kittens and puppies from 8 weeks of age . To provide flea control for pets that are younger than 8 weeks, a sister product to Frontline Plus is recommended.

Emily Lee
Author
Emily Lee
Emily Lee is a freelance writer and artist based in New York City. She’s an accomplished writer with a deep passion for the arts, and brings a unique perspective to the world of entertainment. Emily has written about art, entertainment, and pop culture.