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Fleas are often the scourge of many a pet and their care givers. They not only cause an infestation but bring further risks to the humans leaving both parties itchy, irritated and prone to skin infections and blood shortage.
While prevention is the best remedy to any problem, the inevitable infestation can come from contact with other dogs or even as you walk the pet. Cats too are prone to flea attacks but the size difference means the treatments vary in terms of composition and quantity. The speed at which fleas can reproduce make them a unique adversary and one that must be dealt with swiftly and clinically. The treatments can either be orally or topically administered with other measures advised for a holistic treatment to cure a current infestation and to prevent re-infestation.
1- K9 Advantix II
The best treatment has been established as a topical medication regime. This is because it is applied directly and also contains an Insect Growth Regulator (IGR) which prevents the unborn fleas from maturing into adults, nipping the problem in the bud. Bayer are a pharmaceutical leader in both human and pet needs and they came up with the number one flea killer called K9 Advantix II. This is a topical treatment that is applied at the back or the neck and it works a treat killing the adults and using the IGR to suffocate the eggs and larva around. It has also gained favor as it repels mosquitoes, fleas, ticks and biting flies as well as killing the aforementioned pests making it a nuclear option. The only drawback is it has an uncomfortable texture and smell that can be irritating to humans but more lethally, it is harmful to cats. Thus care is needed for this potent killer but it is worth it for the long term benefits.
2- Advantage II
The next hotshot is called Advantage II which is designed to have separate medications for cats and dogs. Advantage is a great product that has two components; one that kills adult fleas and the other prevents immature fleas from developing any further. This is replicated in both canine and feline options and as such has found great merit with both veterinarians and pet owners alike. The fact that Advantage pays attention to the various age groups and weight levels of both pets has made it an instant hit with humans and a dreaded nemesis for the fleas. Frontline is another topical medication with respectable results as well as coming in both cat and dog versions. It is quite similar to the two versions before it but does not have the fanatical following from either pet owners or vets to gain a favorable rating, however, it is quite effective. Sentry Natural Defense is also a great option for smaller dogs in the topical department. To find out more about Frontline click here.
3- Capstar
Oral medications are an option and none has excelled as much as Capstar has. It is adapted for both dogs and cats and there begins its favorability as well as being affordable and an over the counter solution. It caters to cats and dogs of all sizes and weight classes with a simple administration regime yielding maximum results. This is considered a quick relief option as it kills an infestation in as little as thirty minutes and is harmless to everybody involved. It has no side effects for the animal and does not affect fellow pets nor the handler. The only downside is how to get a cat or dog to swallow the pill and this is done mostly by hiding it in food, snacks, peanut jelly or cheese. The companies have made an effort to combat this by releasing beef flavored tablets and soon this will not be an issue.
4- Comfortis
The darling of veterinary doctors as far as oral medicines are concerned is Comfortis. This is mostly due to the fact that it is a prescription only drug and that it is more potent than Capstar. The drawback here is the potency of Comfortis can cause complications in dogs especially those on Ivermectin based medicine, which combats heartworm. It is also known for its difficulty in ingestion causing discomfort for the animal and vomiting. It is also advised for use for older and heavier pets due to its potency but it is clinical and effective.
5- Flea and Tick Shampoos
Fleas have faced many foes and seen them off either by adapting escaping mechanisms or even getting resistant to certain drugs. The vast majority of generic or home remedies contain pyrethroids like permethrin which can be harmful to cats. The use of flea dips, flea bombs, flea sprays and flea powders are mostly effective initially before becoming redundant. Behavioral treatments are advised too with the use of Oster Oatmeal Naturals Shampoo or Bio-Groom Flea and Tick Shampoo used for bathing and soaking the infested pet. They often require repetitive administration and are too weak to be effective by themselves and as such can be a lifestyle adjustment to help cope pleasantly with treatment for infestation.
6- Flea Away Repellent
Flea Away Repellent is thought to be a great way of halting infestation in its tracks but unless maybe at the onset, is rather more effective as a preventive measure. Four Paws Magic Coat is the old fashioned hard graft solution with a flea comb and can supplement medication superbly. It comes with close knit bristles and a generous handle for extra grip as you knuckle down on the fleas and ticks. While a labor intensive option, very few pests escape the wrath of sweat and graft. The ornamental options are then next up with Scalibor Flea Protector Band infused with Deltamethrin a fantastic option. The drawback has always been it is slow and cerebral meaning the side effects of itching and irritation for the pet are inevitable. The Deltamethrin is usually absorbed into the pet’s system through body oils and fluids, forming a scent that repels the fleas but undetectable to the animal.
Fleas have been the scourge of many a household and as such have been a bother to the pets as well. This is reflected in the variety of remedies out there but with this list, you are sure of results. Do not take our word for it, take the Amazon reviews from pets and most importantly, veterinarians.
