The introduction of Frontline flea protection revolutionized the treatment of fleas on dogs and cats throughout much of the world. Frontline comes in a spot-on application which is very easy to use, it is extremely effective and safe, and generally available without a prescription.
What is Frontline?
Frontline is a safe and effective flea protection product, which is available for both dogs and cats. It is supplied in small plastic pipettes, each containing one application. A pipette is opened and the contents are tipped on to the dog or cat’s skin at the top of the neck. It is very easy to do, and animals are not upset by it as they often are with conventional flea sprays.
How Does Frontline Work?
The active ingredient, fibronil, spreads over the surface of the skin and binds to the skin and hair. Within about 24 hours it will have spread over the entire body, and it kills fleas wherever they are. The product remains effective for about a month on cats, and two months on dogs.
How Effective is Frontline?
Fleas which come into contact with Frontline die after about 24 hours, so it is very effective. However, Frontline will not kill fleas which are in a pet’s bedding or elsewhere in the house, so it is important to use it regularly as a precaution, until all fleas in the area have been eradicated. Since modern houses tend to be warm all the year round, it is a good idea to use Frontline on a regular basis at all times. If this is done it will be extremely effective.
Does Frontline Have Any Side Effects?
Frontline is extremely safe and side effects are rare, since very little is absorbed into the body of the cat or dog. Occasionally there will be a localized skin reaction at the site of the application, which normally clears up in a short time; if it does not, it might be best to avoid using Frontline on that particular animal. Frontline may be dangerous to rabbits, so it should not be used on them.
Frontline Spot-on and Frontline Combo
Frontline Spot-on contains only one ingredient, which kills fleas. Frontline Combo is a newer product, and contains an extra ingredient which sterilizes fleas so that they cannot breed. The idea of this is that it lasts longer than the original Frontline product. However, a vet’s prescription is required for Frontline Combo.
