Best flea treatments for cats in 2021 Review
An overzealously itching and scratching by a cat can leave a pet owner with bad feelings. Ignoring flea on your cats can be an unwise decision for the entire family because a single flea on your cat can result in an outbreak in your home.
If you want to protect your pet and yourself from fleas, the first and most effective step is prevention. This can be achieved by improving your hygiene, regular housekeeping, and preventing your pet from going out. Also, preventing other pets from associating with your pet and cautioning all family members from carrying and playing with the pet is a positive step in the right direction. However, these preventive measures are strict and often difficult to adhere to.
How most cats got their fleas?
Many pet owners often ask these, especially when their pets are indoor pets. Itching isn’t the first sign that indicates the presence of a flea because some flea might be at the egg or larva stage, and you would not be aware. The exact way to find out is by checking the cat’s body. You can do this by combing through the cat’s fur and whipping with damp white clothes. If you find a red-colored streak on the damp clothes, this is an indication that your cats have fleas.
Naturally, cats are known to care for their personal hygiene. For this reason, it is challenging to spot fleas on them. And the only way to see if they do have fleas is the presence of flea dirt, which is a digested blood eaten by the fleas. Fleas aren’t something you should ignore; instead, it requires urgent attention.
Besides making your pet uncomfortable, fleas can cause your cat to develop anemia due to blood loss. This is very common among smaller cats. Also, in the process of cats trying to remove the fleas themselves, they can mistakenly ingest the fleas, which can give them tapeworm.
Life cycle of cat flea
Understanding a flea life cycle can help you eliminate them properly because some treatment only kills adults’ fleas and not the egg. To permanently eliminate a flea or stop its outbreak in your home, you must eliminate all the flea life stages; else, the eggs will metamorphose into an adult egg.
Surprisingly, adult fleas are just a handful of the flea population, and they represent as little as 5 percent of the flea population. A female flea lays an average of 50 eggs per day, which is why they are quick to cause an outbreak and infect humans.
When your cats play on the furniture, they drop some of the eggs on the furniture. These eggs hatch into larvae which create cocoons and emerge as an adult. This process takes about two years, so this means if you let your cat go untreated for more than a year, you should be expecting an outbreak.
When treating your cat for fleas, endeavor to treat your home, paying particular attention to your bedding, furniture, curtains, carpets, yard areas, and the cat’s play area.
How to choose the safest flea cats
Before purchasing any flea, treatments there are factors you should take note. Any mistake with flea treatment can cost you your pets life so, to avoid such issues, take note the following:
- Cats’ lifestyle: some cats are outdoor cats while others are indoors. Both are susceptible to fleas, but outdoor cats are more vulnerable because of their exposure.
- Cat’s age: some flea treatments are not suitable for older cats, so if you remember to mention your cat’s age to your vet to avoid mistakes.
- Cats Health history: is the cat on supplements or any other drugs? This information will influence the type of treatment that would be suitable for the cat.
- Cat’s breed: this is their unique identity; their DNA decides it. Don’t forget to mention this to your vet.
- Cats residential area: if you live in a rural area with so many grasses and trees, then it’s easier for your cat to get re-infected. In this case, a prolonged treatment would be recommended. Also, there some areas that the fleas have shown resistance to certain flea treatment. So don’t forget to mention it to your vet.
For general note, never use a flea treatment meant for dogs for cats except it is written for dogs and cats. Also, follow instructions because some formulations can kill your cat. Cats’ treatments are administered based on their age and weight, and your vets can provide you with this information.
Different kinds of flea treatment
There are different kinds of flea treatment for cats; they include collars, sprays, oral medication, and topical solutions. These same treatment categories are also available for dogs. However, don’t use flea treatment on a dog just because it was effective on a cat. It can lead to suffocation and even death. So always ensure to stick to the label instructions.
There are also homemade flea treatments, and most persons that want to eradicate fleas on a budget opt for it. Some go the extra mile to use essential oils without seeking the advice of their veterinarian. In some cases, these oils would treat the fleas; however, some essential oil has proven to be dangerous and fatal on cats. Examples of essential oils you should avoid include cedar oil, peppermint oil, lavender, tea tree oil, and permethrin.
Always stick to recommended dosage when applying flea treatment because overdose might cause further health issues while under-dose may not be effective. Dosages are calculated using the cat’s age and weight.
If your cats have sensitive skin, the best treatment to adopt are natural powder, flea collars, and cat flea pills. The pills are taken orally and daily, while the collars are worn and easy to apply. Natural cat powders rarely have side effects, although they take time.
A general rule is to apply the treatment to a small portion of the cat’s fur and observe closely for any reaction because some well-known ingredients have caused a reaction at one point or the other, also, for your home cleaning endeavor to use a vacuum cleaner and wash all towels and mats using a high heat washing machine.
To give both you and your pets maximum protection, we have compiled vets’ recommended and effective cat flea treatment for your take noteation. Every product on this recommendation will effectively treat fleas; however, you must take note the above-listed factors before making a final decision. Also, ensure to ask your vet for appropriate dosage and advice because they are the best source of guidance.
To know more about cat brushes, diet and hygiene read
The 6 Best flea treatments for cats in 2021 Are Reviewed Below
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Below is a review of the six best cat flea treatments you can find. Also, it features the best tick treatment for cats in case your pet also has ticks.
1
Frontline Plus Control Cat Flea Treatment
Frontline Plus flea treatment is a brand name that speaks quality when it comes to cat flea treatment. It is a blend of methoprene and fipronil, which are the most active ingredients for flea and tick extermination. The advantage of frontline plus is that it kills fleas at every stage of its life cycle.
Frontline Plus is a topical medication, and it’s very easy to apply. It can last about 30 days on the cat’s fur, especially when applied between the felines and shoulder blade. If your cats get wet or are exposed to the rain, be rest assured that the treatment would still be effective because it has water resistance properties.
Regardless of its effectiveness, you wouldn’t need to break the bank to purchase it, and it is readily available on amazon. Also, it comes with instructions and, as such, doesn’t require a prescription. It can be used for cats eight weeks and older. For safety, always wash your hands after application to avoid poisoning because it contains pesticides.
Key Features:
- Fast action
- Waterproof
- Long-lasting
- Strictly for cats and kittens
- Contains preventive ingredients
Specification:
- Brand: Frontline
- Life stage: Effective against all life cycle
- Volume: 8 millimeters
- Available format: Liquid
- Applicable age: 8 weeks and older
Pros
- It kills fleas at the larvae, egg, and adult stage
- Easy to apply
- It stays active even in the presence of water
- Affordable and effective
- Also, work against ticks and repel some household insect
Cons
- Not suitable for younger cats
- Not suitable for cats with sensitive skin
2
Bayer Advantage II Cat Flea Control
Advantage ii cat flea control is excellent for both prevention and extermination of fleas. It is a topical medication used for preventing the development of larvae and eggs. Unfortunately, it isn’t effective against lice or ticks like the frontline, but it does its job on fleas perfectly. When applied to the feline’s neck, it can last for about 30 days, and it isn’t affected or weakened from water exposure.
Like other flea treatment, advantage II contains pesticides and should be handled with care and endeavors to wash your hands after each use. Also, it isn’t safe for kittens below eight weeks old it can cause a reaction or even death. It is pretty affordable and readily available and comes with a prescription.
Another point to note is that it should be applied only once a month on the cat’s neck, and it shouldn’t be applied repeatedly to avoid an increased level of toxicity. Also, this treatment is a good option for treating your entire home; however, enquire from your vet on how to mix it for home use.
Key Features:
- It comes with handling precaution.
- Waterproof
- Fast action within 12 hours
- Effective against the entire life cycle of fleas
Specification:
- Brand: Advantage
- Life stage: Only adult cat
- Volume: 28 milliliter
- Available format: Liquid
- Applicable age: Cats over 9 pounds
Pros
- It kills fleas at every stage of its life cycle
- Fast action and kill 80 percent of adult fleas within 12 hours
- Very effective for older cats
Cons
- It has a strong and unbearable odor
- It isn’t suitable for cats with sensitive skin
- It requires careful handling
3
Capstar Oral Cat Flea Treatment
Cap star flea treatment is specially formulated for younger kittens and cats with low body weight. This treatment is suitable for cats of about a month old and weigh at least 1. 2kg. This treatment is administered orally and doesn’t cause any skin reaction whatsoever. The oral treatment starts working within thirty minutes of application and has a common side effect that indirectly aids its potency. From reviews and comments from shoppers, Capstar or flea treatment is the best oral flea treatment for cats.
The side effect is itching, and this indirectly forces the fleas out of the cat’s fur. Capstar fleas are very effective; however, it doesn’t kill fleas at the egg and larvae stage. To completely eradicate the menace of fleas on your cats and in your home, you Have to use the oral treatment in conjunction with an insect growth regulator; this will automatically equate its effectiveness with that of a tropical flea’s treatment. Also, this unique oral treatment is readily available and also affordable.
Key Features:
- Fast action
- Less toxic
- Allows for frequent application
- Available without vet’s prescription
Specification:
- Brand: Capstar
- Item volume: 6 tablet
- Applicable age: All age range
- Item form: Tablet
- Practical stage: Only adult fleas
Pros
- It can be administered daily and isn’t poisonous to pet owners
- Less handling safety required
- It kills fleas within 30 minutes of application
- Suitable for young kittens with low body weight.
Cons
- It isn’t effective against fleas at its egg and larvae stage
- It works in combination with other products
4
Vet’s Best Cat Flea Treatment
Vet’s best flea treatment is an effective flea treatment manufactured to act as a flea’s spray. It is a natural flea treatment for cats and was produce with a blend of clove extract and peppermint oil. It is highly effective against fleas at every stage of its life cycle.
Vets’ best spray treatment is also effective against ticks and mosquitoes; it kills mosquitoes at the first instant. However, it isn’t easy to apply because it needs to be sprayed on every part of the cat’s body and needs proper massaging to be appropriately absorbed into its skin. For safety reasons, when applying the spray, avoid the cat’s face to reduce suffocation. It can be used repeatedly because it is less toxic than most topical treatments, although it isn’t water-resistant. Vet’s best spray is affordable but isn’t as available as other treatments.
Key Features:
- Contain natural, safe oil
- No harsh chemical
- Easy to apply
- Multipurpose
Specification:
- Brand: Vets best
- Life stage: Effective against all life cycle
- Volume: 32cl
- Available format: Spray
- Applicable age: Adult
Pros
- It kills fleas, mosquitoes, and ticks
- It is a multipurpose flea treatment and can also be used as a home spray
- Kills fleas at all stage of its life cycle
- Easy to handle
Cons
- Not suitable for cats with sensitive skin
5
Bayer Seresto cat Flea treatment
If you are looking for a flea treatment that can protect your cats against fleas even after treatment, then Bayer seresto cat flea treatment is your best bet. It can protect your cat for more than seven months because it releases its flumethrin and imidacloprid formula slowly, making it safe and long-lasting. It was manufactured with the cat’s safety in mind, and it doesn’t contain organophosphate, which is a harmful insecticide to felines.
Bayer seresto collar is safe even though it exposes your cat to some chemicals, but the manufacturers were cautious with the chemical blend. I rate the product as the best for repelling fleas. Also, it is very affordable and readily available.
Key Features:
- Lightweight collar
- Safe to apply
- Long-lasting
Specification:
- Brand: Seresto
- Life stage: Effective against all life cycle
- Weight: 0.22 pounds
- Available format: Collars
- Applicable age: All ages
Pros
- It kills ticks, adult fleas, and flea larvae
- Durable and economical
- Water resistance
- It is easy to apply and requires a one-time application.
Cons
- It is difficult for most cats to adjust to wearing collars.
- Some cats might experience hair loss and itching at the site of application.
6
Zodiac Breakaway Flea Collar for Cats
Organophosphate is an insecticide that has proven to be harmful to cats and dogs. Most local flea treatment manufacturers utilize this chemical. If you are looking for a flea treatment free from this harmful chemical, look no other than Zodiac breakaway flea collars. This flea collar is safe and very affordable. It can be purchase from online stores as well as pet shops.
If properly used, it can provide adequate protection for your cats. The active duration is between 4 to 5 months. It utilizes an active ingredient call propoxur. Propoxur has been known and proven to be safe for cats but harmful to some other animal, such as fish, birds, and bees. It can also be harmful to children with long exposure time.
Key Features:
- It features a safety release buckle
- Odorless and non-greasy
- Waterproof
- Adjustable buckle
Specification:
- Brand: Zodiac
- Life stage: Effective against all life cycle
- Weight: 0.03 pounds
- Available format: Collar
- Applicable age: For all ages
Pros
- It kills almost any insect that comes close to the cat
- It can serve as a preventive measure
- It is odorless and easy to handle
- Fast action and kills 80 percent fleas present in 12 hours
Cons
- It is difficult for most cats to adjust to wearing collars.
- Some cats might experience hair loss and itching at the site of application.
Buying Guide Questions
Pet owners often have some concerns and comparisons about certain flea treatment products. Flea treatment for cats is available in different brands and comes in a different method of application. It can be a collar, a spray, and organic oil or liquid. The aim’s to exterminate fleas at all stages of their life cycle to avoid a reoccurrence or outbreak. Below are answers to the most frequently asked queries by pet owners.
What is the most effective flea treatment for cats?
From online reviews and vet recommendations, the tropical advantage ii flea control has proven to always top the list when the best flea treatment is mentioned. Although other good products can perform the same function, they aren’t aggressive when it comes to killing the entire life cycle of fleas.
In addition to killing fleas throughout their life cycle, it also provides a vial that makes application easy, especially on the cat’s neck. However, if your cats have sensitive sick advantage ii would not be a good idea. To determine if its formulation is suitable for your cat, apply it to a little area and watch out for the reaction before extending to a larger surface.
What kills fleas on cats instantly?
You might find a chemical or solution that kills fleas on cats instantly, but that doesn’t mean it is safe. So, it makes no sense to kill fleas on your cats instantly and, in the process, cause harm to your cat. However, there is a solution that pet owners have utilized, and they swear it works. This solution is dish soap. Irrespective of the formulation and concentration, dish soap, when used on cats’ skin as proven to exterminate fleas instantly.
The soap breaks down the exoskeleton of the fleas within minutes, and this can be achieved by combing your cats’ fur with a flea’s comb, after which you dip the comb into a mixture of dish soap and warm water. Comb the fur with this wet comb severally while reapplying the mixture when the comb goes dry.
Which is better for cats, Frontline or Advantage?
Advantage and frontline plus flea treatment are the first two flea treatments in the market. These treatments were often used for cats and dogs for the purpose of prevention and treatment. Due to their popularity, pet owners often compare them each time they shop for flea treatment.
Advantage flea treatment kills 98% of fleas on cats and dogs with 12 hours of application. The first five minutes render the fleas nipping ability useless, which implies that it resolves any itching issues in the first five minutes of application. Also, it exterminates all the life cycles of fleas, but it isn’t effective for the treatment of ticks.
On the other hand, frontline plus is effective against all life cycles of fleas and ticks; it kills 100% of fleas within two days of application. However, it isn’t tolerated by most cats.
What flea medicine do vets recommend?
Being a pet owner means you have a vet you can ask from time to time. A Vet recommends flea treatment base on the extent of infestation and age of your kitty. Most times, they collect a sample from your cat to determine the kind of fleas.
There are about six popular flea treatments that vets recommend to pet owners they include.
-
- Advantage ii
- Bayer seresto
- Sentry cap guard oral flea tablets
- Petcor flea spray
- Frontline plus
- Zodiac fleas’ colla
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How do vets get rid of fleas on cats?
It’s nothing special vets do the same thing pet owners do. The only difference is they carry out diagnoses before and after treatment. Like every other person seeking to get rid of pet vets, use the available flea treatment in the market and sometimes make their formulae.
The advantage is that vets follow dosage according to weight, and they don’t ignore any details or signs that may indicate unresponsiveness.
How do you get rid of fleas on cats that hate water?
Batting your kitty can help them get rid of fleas. However, some cats are afraid of water and would do anything to avoid taking its bath. Pet owners have found a way around this, and I am going to share it with you.
The strategy is to go slowly and calmly. Any attempt to force your cat will scare it more, so stay calm and speak in a reassuring tone. Cats tend to pick up the same energy as their caregiver, so if you want your cat calm, you also must be calm.
Avoid using cold water instead; use warm water and pour it slowly so the cats can get acclimated to the water. Use recommended shampoo and brush the cat’s fur gently. Also, make sure everything you need is ready and easily accessible; that way, you won’t have to leave the cat unattended, leading to the cat catching a cold.
Among the recommended cat’s flea shampoo are Adam’s ticks and flea shampoo, d-limonene tick, flea shampoo, and other bar soaps.
How do you make homemade flea spray for cats?
Are you trying to get rid of your cats’ fleas, and you want to do so on a budget, or are you not just comfortable with the chemical-made flea treatments? Well, I got you covered?
Fleas are known to hate the taste and smell of vinegar; you can use this information to your advantage by using the same vinegar to wipe them off your cat and surrounding. Start by adding an amount of vinegar to all your household cleaning water, and also prepare a vinegar spray.
The blend you would adopt depends on the degree of the infestation; you can make your vinegar spray with a ratio of 1:1. However, you can increase the concentration if the result is slow. This works by forcing the fleas to exit your cats’ body and all their hideout which allow you to kill them physically. Some might even die as a result of suffocation.
What can I put on my skin to keep fleas off of me?
The fact that you own a pet, whether it’s a dog or a cat, already exposes you to flea bites. To keep this tiny creature away from your skin, you need to wear thick and full clothing always; however, some fleas can find ways of penetrating light clothing. Due to this fact, it will be more beneficial to apply safe flea repellant on your skin.
There are several flea repellants in the stores, but the best that has proven to work against fleas is those containing DEET and permethrin. Use every 12 hours and avoid always exposing your bare skin when attending to your cats or dogs.
Does vinegar kill fleas on cats?
Vinegar does not kill fleas; instead, it makes them uncomfortable. If you apply vinegar on your cat’s skin, the fleas will start to crawl out of their skin, making it possible for you to kill them.
When using vinegar, always mix with water in a ratio of 2:1. That’s is one portion of water to two portions of vinegar. Also, be aware that if the fleas have lay eggs before using the vinegar mixture, these eggs won’t crawl out, so in the end, you will have to keep repeating the same cycle.
Is Frontline Plus for cats any good?
Frontline plus treatment for cats is known to produce fast an excellent result when it was first made. However, due to the recent comments on the products, it seems most users are complaining about a change or modification of one of its ingredients. The complaints are often about skin incompatibility and that fleas are showing resistance to the treatments. So, I would say if you are treating your cat for fleas that have shown resistance to other products, then frontline isn’t a good option, but otherwise, you can give it a try.
Conclusion
Flea is a common nightmare for pet owners; this tiny creature makes cats uncomfortable and sick and goes further to affect pet owners. To eradicate these uninvited guest pet owners must use a suitable flea treatment. That is a treatment suitable for their cat’s age and weight. From this buying guide, you would have gotten enough information to help you make the best choice. Don’t delay; make your choice and say goodbye to fleas.