How does topical flea treatment work

If you have an infestation, you may need to use a combination of citrus along with more potent chemicals to mount a large-scale attack that will eradicate all of the insects. Imidacloprid is a topical insecticide that works by blocking nervous system conduction in insects. The majority of adult fleas are reportedly killed within 24 hours of application, reducing the chance for them to lay eggs.

Fipronil and metaflumizone are both used in spot-on products. Fipronil can also be found in a spray formula. These chemicals also target the chemical functions in the nervous system of insects, resulting in paralysis and death. Selamectin is a chemical that kills both internal and external parasites by blocking nerve signal transmissions.

It is applied as a spot-on and enters the bloodstream via the skin. It not only kills intestinal parasites, it also protects against heartworm disease as well as fleas adults and eggs , ticks, and some mites. Dinotefuran is a chemical that kills insects on contact. It kills all stages of the flea life cycle by interfering with nerve signal conduction. Lufenuron is an oral product, meaning that it is ingested by the animal, rather than applied to the outer body as with the above examples.

Any larvae produced by these adults will not have the ability to produce an exoskeleton, causing them to die. It will not kill adult fleas, however, so another chemical will be needed to control home infestations. Spinosad kills adult fleas only and is approved for oral use only in dogs. The active chemical is found in bacteria living in the soil. It should be used carefully in animals with epilepsy. Nitenpyram is an oral flea control product that is approved for use in both cats and dogs.

It works by blocking nerve receptors in the insect, killing adult fleas on the animal in about 30 minutes. It does not have a long-term effect, so it cannot be used for continuous flea control. By being absorbed into to bloodstream, some products also treat and prevent internal parasites such as heartworm, roundworm, or hookworm. One reason many people choose a topical preventive is convenience. They are quick and easy to apply, and most are effective for a full month.

Parasite infestations can be very difficult to eliminate, but topical products make it easy to prevent them. This product is unique in that it is a topical treatment that also prevents heartworm infection in both dogs and cats. Advantage further prevents infestations for up to a month by also killing flea larvae in the home.

With monthly, year-round use, Advantage provides long-term flea protection for your cat or dog, keeping your pet and your family happy and protected. Advantage Petcare Parasites All Parasites fleas The real science behind flea treatments for your pet. Master Brand. Share on. Intro Text.