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All kinds of parasites, and especially fleas, are inevitable companions of domestic cats. Even pets without free range are sometimes subject to invasion by ectoparasites. Frontline for cats will help you fight them. If you read the reviews, it becomes clear that it compares favorably with its analogues in terms of safety and ease of use. Especially if the instructions for use were not ignored.
Types of Frontline for cats
Frontline for cats contains the substance fipronil, which is poisonous to fleas and ticks. Organic compounds are used as additional components: butylhydroxyanisole, ethanol, butylhydroxytoluene, excipient. Fipronil accumulates in the animal's skin (hair follicles, sebaceous glands, epidermis) and, when bitten, enters the parasite's body. The poison causes paralysis of the insect and its death.
After processing the animal, at least 24 hours must pass. This time is necessary for the uniform distribution of fipronil over the skin. The drug does not enter the cat’s blood or digestive tract. A sufficient concentration of the active substance remains in the pet’s body for up to 45-60 days. After this, re-processing is necessary.
The manufacturer of the drug Frontline is the French pharmaceutical company Merial. The insectoacaricidal agent is available in different forms: in the form of drops, spray. The choice of a suitable variety is determined by the degree of infection, the susceptibility of the organism and the purpose of treatment (treatment, prevention).
Drops Combo
Frontline Combo in drop form contains, in addition to fipronil, another active substance S-methoprene. The amount of these compounds is approximately the same - 9.8% and 8.8%, respectively. Frontline drops are a colorless, transparent solution with a pungent odor. Standard packaging volume is 0.5 ml. But in pet stores you can sometimes find a 0.67 ml package; 1.34 ml; 2.68 ml and 4.02 ml.
Frontline Combo acts on all stages of parasite development: adults, larvae, eggs
Drops Spot It
In terms of its organoleptic properties, Frontline Spot is reminiscent of Combo. This product is also colorless, transparent and has a slight specific odor. The liquid is in a pipette. Apply it to the animal's skin in places inaccessible to licking. There are different packaging available for sale: 0.5 ml; 0.67 ml; 1.34 ml; 2.68 ml and 4.02 ml. There is only one active ingredient – fipronil, the share of which in the drug is 10%.
Spray
The aerosol form of the medicine is convenient for treating the entire surface of the animal against parasites. The bottles have different volumes: 100, 250 or 500 ml. With one press of the spray of the first dosage, 0.5 ml of the drug gets onto the fur. From a larger volume bottle, up to 1.5 ml of solution comes out with one press. These numbers are used to calculate the dose based on the weight of the pet. Frontline spray is convenient not only for treating a cat’s fur, but also its bedding and carpets.
PROPERTIES:
It has a pronounced contact insectoacaricidal effect, is active against the preimaginal and imaginal phases of development of lice, fleas, lice and ticks (ixodidae, cheylitella), parasitizing cats.
The mechanism of action of fipronil is to block GABA-dependent (GABA-gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors of parasites, disrupting the transmission of nerve impulses, which leads to paralysis and death of ectoparasites.
S-methoprene inhibits juvenile hormone, which promotes the formation of chitin, thereby disrupting the development of fleas at the egg and larval stages.
When applied to the skin, the drug is not absorbed, but gradually, over 24 hours, distributed over the surface of the body and, reserved in the sebaceous glands, has a long-term insectoacaricidal effect in places where ectoparasites are localized.
Side effects, overdose
Scientific research has proven that even with a threefold overdose, no side effects are observed. However, in some cases, salivation may be present, which is a reaction to the filler that is part of the product (an alcohol solution is used as a filler).
Frontline spray usually does not cause side effects, but if you are hypersensitive to the components of the drug and signs that accompany allergic reactions are detected, further treatment should be stopped and the applied drug should be washed off with water. If necessary, animals are prescribed antihistamines.
Precautionary measures
As mentioned above, the medication is one of the drugs that is low-risk for the body of dogs.
Complies with GOST standard 12.1.007.76 However, when working with Frontline, as with any medicine, precautions should be taken:
Strictly observe the dosage of the drug. Do not use in conjunction with an anti-parasitic collar. Observe age restrictions on the use of the product. Use with caution on weakened and older dogs. Use with caution for pregnant and lactating individuals. If possible, during these periods, avoid any chemical exposure without special indications. Be sure to check with your veterinarian about possible interactions between fipronil and other medications. Before use, you should make sure that the dog does not have an individual intolerance to the components of Frontline.
Advantages and disadvantages of products
The history of the use of the pharmaceutical drug in veterinary practice allows us to place Frontline for cats on a par with other known products against fleas and ticks. The ratio of pros and cons determines the feasibility of its use. The advantages of the drug are:
- Highly effective against several types of ectoparasites.
- Wide range of effects (acts on different stages of development).
- Prolonged period of activity of fipronil.
- Harmlessness of active ingredients for the pet itself.
- Can be used for kittens and pregnant cats.
- Convenient application of the product to the fur or skin of an animal.
Frontline Spot On, Combo and Spray have their drawbacks. So, the liquid product must be dosed strictly, based on the cat’s weight. If the amount of the drug is insufficient, the effect is not achieved. Exceeding the optimal dose may have a negative effect on your pet's health.
When spraying Frontline spray, it may come into contact with the cat's mucous membranes. This causes local irritation and redness. If such a nuisance occurs, the cat should immediately rinse its eyes and nose with running water. The pet cannot be petted or bathed for two days. The use of a toxic liquid requires strict adherence to hygiene rules (washing hands after handling).
Frontline has a characteristic unpleasant odor that not all cats like
Frontline Spray flea and tick spray for dogs and cats
Considering that this product can be used on cats and dogs of different ages and weights, it is necessary to study the attached instructions in detail. It describes in detail how many clicks need to be made to spray the body of an animal that has a specific size, weight, and coat length. Despite the comparative safety of this insecticide, it is still a poison, which means you should not overdo it when spraying your pet with it.
Frontline insecticidal sprays are sold in bottles of 100 and 250 ml. For cats, given their smaller size compared to large dog breeds, it is more advisable to buy the first option. At the same time, if you need to regularly treat a large number of cats and kittens, you can buy a 250 ml bottle.
There are some precautions to using the spray. So, it is advisable to apply the product to animal fur outdoors. In the case of cats that are not allowed outside, this can be problematic. In such situations, the spray should be used in a well-ventilated area, preferably on a balcony, veranda, etc. It is better not to spray the spray on the animal’s face, because it can get into the eyes and mucous membranes of the mouth and nose.
Analogues of the drug
When choosing analogues of Frontaline, it is necessary to note the effectiveness, as well as the smallest number of side effects that occur when treating cats.
Potential analogues of Frontline are the following insectoacaricides:
- Advantix drops (Bayer, Germany);
- Bolfo spray (Bayer, Germany);
- Ultra Guard drops (Hartz, USA).
Before starting to use any type of antiparasitic medication, you should always consult with a veterinarian.
Indications for use
According to the instructions, Frontline for cats is used for preventive and therapeutic purposes. It helps get rid of many parasites and prevent infection by them. The use of drops and spray is justified for the following problems:
- Fleas;
- Ticks;
- lice eaters;
- Cheylitelas;
- Otodexodes;
- Lice.
For the treatment of otodectosis, only Frontline Spot On is acceptable.
How often can it be used
The active substance remains in the skin for several weeks. This determines the period of acaricidal and insecticidal action. Frontline protects against fleas for two months, and against ixodid ticks for one month. The frequency of use of Frontline may depend on the season. In the spring and summer, when tick activity peaks, the treatment is repeated monthly. In cold weather, it is enough to treat the animal once every seven to eight weeks.
Doses and method of administration
Before treatment, remove the tip of the pipette, then spread the animal’s fur in the back area (between the shoulder blades) and, pressing the pipette, apply the drug to the skin at several points, in places inaccessible to licking by animals. Repeated treatments of animals are carried out according to indications, but not more than once every two months against insects and not more than once a month against ixodid ticks. In order to prevent re-infestation by fleas, the animals' bedding is replaced or treated with a preparation.
Storage conditions
Frontline must be kept in its original, undamaged packaging. Cat food and human food should not be stored nearby. Temperature range – from 0 to 25 degrees. It is necessary to provide protection from direct sunlight, heating devices or open fire. Strictly ensure that children do not have access to the place where the product is located. If the conditions are correctly met, then Frontline Spray is suitable for 2 years from the date printed on the packaging. Frontline Combo and Spot It are valid for 3 years. If the allotted period expires, use is prohibited and the product is thrown away.
Frontline drops for cats
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Instructions for use Frontline
The technique of using the drug depends on its form. Frontline drops are applied directly to the skin, spreading the fur. The areas where the product is dripped are located on the withers, between the shoulder blades along the spine. Spot application over the entire body is not allowed. One adult cat requires one Frontline Spot on or Combo pipette with a volume of 0.5 ml. If the pet's weight is less than 1 kg, then the dosage is adequately reduced.
For ear scabies, Frontline Spot He is dripped into both ears, 4-6 drops. After this, the auricle is covered and gently massaged at the base with your hand so that the drug is evenly distributed over the skin. The spray is sprayed over the entire surface of the wool from a distance of 10-15 cm. Then lightly rubbed in. Treatment against fleas and ticks is carried out with gloves on and the window open. The aerosol bottle is shaken before use.
When spraying the spray, it is important to ensure that the drug does not get into your pet’s eyes, mouth, or nose.
Answers to popular questions
Many cat owners are interested in questions related to the nuances of using Frontline
Since the cat is a member of the family, and the health of the pet is under the close attention of the owners, they are looking for answers to their questions related to the treatment of the cat’s skin and further actions
Is it possible to scratch after treatment?
After treatment, touching the cat is not allowed. The procedure must be carried out with rubber gloves to prevent contact of the substance with your hands. The drug is applied to the clean skin of the cat, from where, due to its accumulative properties, it is gradually absorbed into the sebaceous glands, mixed with skin secretions and acts on parasites, causing their death. If you scratch your cat after applying the drug, microcracks may form, through which the product will enter the bloodstream and cause a negative reaction.
Can it be used on a dog?
It is perfectly acceptable to use Frontline on a dog. The manufacturer produces a separate type of drug in the form of a spray and drops, intended for treating dogs. The amount of medication used depends on the dog's weight.
Is it possible to divide by less?
When separating the contents of the pipette, there is a risk of violating the dosage of the active component and the alcohol-containing element, which will lead to the ineffectiveness of the medicine.
Is it okay for pregnant cats?
The drug Frontline has been tested in clinical conditions and is considered an absolutely safe treatment for cats during pregnancy.
Is it possible to put drops in the ear?
You can put Frontline drops into your ear if you are infected with ear mites. The procedure must be performed by a veterinarian in a clinic setting. The ears must be clean so that no dirt remains deep in the ear.
To treat ear mites, a spray is also used, which is sprayed into the auricle after preliminary cleaning.
Is it possible to pet a cat?
Touching a treated cat is prohibited, especially for children and people prone to allergies. The cat should not be petted until the area where the drug is applied is completely dry (about 24 hours). It is not allowed to take a treated animal into bed.
Is it possible to wash a cat?
Bathing with (or without) shampoo 1 hour before treatment does not affect the effectiveness of the drug, provided that the pet’s fur and skin are completely dry. Washing or bathing the cat is allowed 48 hours after treatment.
Contraindications
According to the instructions for use, Frontline for cats is a harmless drug if applied correctly. It has few contraindications. This is why anti-parasite drops and sprays are popular with many owners of fluffy cats. The main obstacle to the use of any form of Frontline (Spot On, Combo, spray) is individual intolerance. If your cat develops symptoms of allergies, irritation, or changes in behavior under the influence of the medication, you should show it to the veterinarian and change the drug.
It is recommended to use the drug with extreme caution for weakened or sick animals. There is another temporary contraindication – deworming. It is not advisable to combine two procedures in one day. At least 10 days must pass between them so that the body does not suffer from the single action of a large amount of toxic substances. This warning applies to any flea and tick product.
Is Frontline suitable for pregnant cats and kittens?
Fipronil and S-methoprene belong to the group of low-toxic substances. They do not penetrate the bloodstream, but accumulate only in the dermis. The drug does not have a teratogenic or mutagenic effect. Therefore, the product is allowed to be applied to the body of pregnant cats and kittens.
A very small kitten should be treated for fleas and ticks only if absolutely necessary. For example, if he was picked up on the street. If the cub is breastfed, then you should remember that traces of medicine from its fur can enter the body of the mother cat when licked. Therefore, it is worth assessing the feasibility of treating a baby with Frontline.
WHO IS FRONTLINE COMBO SUITABLE FOR:
- FOR CATS AND KITTENS FROM 8 WEEKS AND WEIGHTING FROM 1 KG
- Ferrets from 6 months and weighing from 1 kg
- Pregnant and lactating cats
- Cats living in families with small children
- For animals whose owners prefer simplicity and ease of handling
Frontline Combo for protection against fleas, ticks, eggs and flea larvae in the form of drops on the withers.
Frontline Combo is prescribed to cats:
- for the prevention and treatment of flea infestation
- from attacks by ixodid ticks,
- from infestation with lice and lice eaters
- in complex therapy of allergic dermatitis (BAD) caused by fleas
Prices for Frontline for cats and kittens
The cost of the drug is determined by the shape and size of the container. Fluctuations in price in different regions of the country and in different pharmacies are insignificant. One 0.5 ml Frontline Spot On pipette costs about 400-500 rubles. The price of the flea and tick drug Frontline Combo varies approximately within the same limits.
Frontline spray costs an order of magnitude more than drops. The price for a bottle with a minimum volume (100 ml) ranges from 1000 to 1300 rubles. A medium-packed drug (250 ml) costs 1500-1800 rubles. The most expensive is a large bottle (500 ml). Its price reaches 2600 rubles.
Is it worth paying more?
With all the hype and popularity of the drug, one should not forget what made it so powerful. Yes, yes, it's all about the active substance. In the drug "Frontline" it is fipronil, obtained quite recently. The essence of its action is that it affects the GABA channels of insects, interfering with the passage of chlorine ions. As a result, the pest's nervous system collapses and it dies. At the same time, it does not harm the mammal. According to official data and reviews, Frontline can cost from four hundred to one and a half thousand rubles, depending on the characteristics. But the prices for other drugs with the active ingredient fipronil are much more affordable: from one hundred rubles.
Frontline Nexgard chewable tablets for dogs
There are situations when it is very inconvenient or even contraindicated to use external means to combat the parasite. For example, there are wounds on the dog’s skin or you bathe him often and therefore the drops are not effective. Frontline Nexgard chewable tablets will come to your aid.
You will immediately cope with two tasks: firstly, get rid of external parasites; Secondly, the tablets act on worms inside the animal.
Nexgard chewable tablets for fleas, ticks and worms contain the active ingredient afoxolaner. The medicine tastes like beef stew, so dogs eat it with pleasure.
The effect of the medication begins within half an hour after administration. Complete destruction of parasites occurs within 6-48 hours.
It is very convenient that you only need to use the tablets once a month.
Instructions for use
The manufacturer took care not to calculate the dosage of the drug. You just need to weigh your pet and buy the necessary box. There are 4 types of tablets, depending on the weight of the animal: from 2 to 50 kg. Per 1 kg of animal weight, 2.5 mg of afoxolaner is required.
Give the medication separately or with food. Do not break the tablets or they will no longer be effective. The medicine is contraindicated in dogs weighing up to 2 kg or under 2 months of age. Give medication to pregnant and lactating females only with the consent of the veterinarian.
Frontline is an effective insect repellent for dogs. When choosing a form of medication, rely not only on ease of use, but also on existing contraindications, the age of the animal and the degree of infection.
There is also a separate form of Frontline for cats.
How to distinguish from a fake
Since the drug Frontline is a popular remedy and is often recommended by veterinarians, fakes are sometimes found in pet pharmacies. To protect yourself from a useless purchase, it is worth knowing the distinctive features of the original. These include:
- A plastic container with drops is always packed in a sealed cardboard package;
- The Frontline logo is printed directly onto the dropper itself;
- The company name is printed on the packaging;
- The batch number and production date are duplicated on the applicator and cardboard base;
- Each copy is accompanied by a leaflet with detailed instructions for use;
- There are no additional holograms or stickers on the packaging;
- For Frontline spray and drops, the composition, concentration, and volume of the drug are indicated;
These external signs are classic. Merial periodically changes some design elements. The color of the packaging or the photo of the cat may change. Some blisters are marked “PCT”, which replaces the Soviet quality mark and means that the product meets the requirements of GOST certification.
