Frontline is one of the most effective flea treatments in my opinion. It comes in the spray form, the spot-on formulation and now a spot-on 'Combo' which prevents the contamination of the environment of treated animals with the immature stages of fleas. So it not only kills the fleas, it also controls the immature phases and thus the environment. This means that you do not need to spray the home with a household spray. A prescription is required from your vet for Frontline Combo, but not for Frontline.
wYou may find that your local vet no longer stocks Frontline. This is not because they think it is ineffective; it is because Frontline can now be purchased from pharmacies.
wFrontline contains Fipronil which kills fleas within 24 hours and ticks and lice after 48 hours. In cats, its effect lasts for 4 weeks in eliminating fleas and Frontline Combo will inhibit the development of the eggs and larvae for 6 weeks after application. Its effect will last for 2 weeks against ticks.
wApply at the back of the neck by carefully parting the fur. Apply in an area where the cat is unable to lick itself. If you have 2 cats that are likely to groom each other, keep them apart for 12 hours.
wIt can be applied to kittens from 8 weeks or weighing at least 1 kg or 2.2lb. Do not use on sick cats and no earlier than 4 weeks since the last application. It can be used during pregnancy and lactation.
wA sticky patch may remain where it has been applied topically. Do not stroke your cat for 12 hours over this area. It is an idea to apply it to your cat in the evening and by morning it will be absorbed. If you do happen to get some on your fingers, wash them with soap and avoid any contact with your eyes and mouth.
wI have very rarely seen skin reactions on the back of the neck where Frontline has been applied topically. If your cat does happen to lick the area (if you have applied it too low down the neck), they may salivate excessively. Any vomiting, depression or neurologic signs will have to be checked by your vet.
wIn dogs, Frontline will prevent new infestations with adult fleas for 8 weeks and it will inhibit the development of flea eggs for 8 weeks so it only needs to be applied every 2 months compared to monthly in cats. It will inhibit ticks for 4 weeks. Apply Frontline 2 days after washing your dog or 2 days after it has been swimming. You are able to wash your dog weekly for 6 weeks once it has been applied (2 days after its last bath) and its efficacy will not be affected by these baths.
wIt can be used during pregnancy and lactation and in puppies from 8 weeks or 2kgs (4.4lbs). Use the correct pipette for the weight of your dog. Do not overdose. Apply as in cats between the shoulder blades where a dog is unable to lick it.
wVery rarely, there may be a patch of fur loss where it is applied.
wDo not use dog Frontline in cats as they can be overdosed and do not use Frontline in rabbits.
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