Frontline for cats is recommended to offer protection against parasites such as fleas and ticks. This solution containing fipronil is widely used in pets. It is extremely efficient and may be used periodically, with no major side effects in felines.
Uses of Frontline
Frontline contains fipronil, which is a broad spectrum insecticide. Fipronil acts by blocking the nervous system of the insects and will slowly eliminate the parasites. Frontline is used in felines mainly to remove fleas and ticks. Fipronil is also employed to eliminate other insects such as cockroaches, ants, bees and wasps. The product may be used from as early as when the kitten is 8 weeks old. Frontline is a solution that is applied on the cat's skin and it is a waterproof treatment, so you don't need to reapply it after each bath or swimming adventure.
Effects of Frontline
On average, Frontline eliminates fleas within 12 hours after applying the substance. However, the effects of Frontline will extend over the following four weeks, and the cat will be protected against fleas, ticks and other parasites during this entire time. This is due to the fact that the product breaks the development cycle of the parasites. Fipronil, the active ingredient in Frontline, will be stored in the oil glands of the pet and will be secreted along with the essential oils and spread over the cat's entire skin and hair to offer complete protection.
Frontline may also be used as a preventive solution, if you live in an area populated by ticks or if your cat has been in contact with other felines infested with fleas.
Frontline Side Effects in Cats
In cats, Frontline is safe to use and will rarely cause severe side effects. The most common side effects of Frontline in felines include skin allergic reactions. The substance may cause vision problems, so the contact with the cat's eyes must be avoided. Frontline may also damage human vision, so make sure to wear gloves while applying the treatment.
Frontline Contraindications
Frontline shouldn't be used in the following cases:
- Kittens under 8 weeks old, as fipronil can be toxic
- Pregnant cats, as the substance can lead to spontaneous abortion
- Senior cats with a weak immune system
- Pets that have severe allergies (i.e., anaphylactic shock) to fipronil or other insecticides
Fleas after Frontline Treatment
It may happen that your cat gets infected with fleas only weeks after applying the Frontline treatment. This may be due to the fact that you failed to eliminate the fleas from the cat's environment. Frontline only removes parasites, their larvae and eggs from the cat's skin. You will have to make sure the cat's room and his bedding are also flea free. Use bleach when cleaning the room and boil the cat's bedding to ensure the parasites are gone.