Is Advantage for Dogs & Cats the Same Product?

Advantage is the brand name of a topical flea prevention treatment for dogs and cats. Most varieties of Advantage contain the same active ingredient, but the dosages are formulated for the weight and sometimes the age of the animal. On the other hand, the K-9 Advantix formulation is formulated only for dogs and is toxic to cats.

  1. The Products

    • According to the Advantage website, regular Advantage and Advantage Multi (which also contains heartworm control) comes in four different dosage sizes for dogs and two for cats. K-9 Advantix is a dog-only product that wards off ticks as well as fleas. (See References 1)

    Application

    • These products come in small tubes which must be opened and applied to the back of the neck where the pet cannot easily lick it. Placement is especially important with Advantage Multi, which can have serious complications if ingested by the animal.

    Age Requirements

    • Puppies must be at least seven weeks old to use Advantage, Advantage Multi, or K-9 Advantix. Kittens must be eight weeks old before using Advantage or Advantage Multi.

    How Advantage Works

    • All of the Advantage products contain imidacloprid for the treatment and prevention of fleas. After application to the back of the neck, the chemical is released by the hair follicles. It kills fleas by interfering with their nervous systems. (See References 3)

    Risks

    • Advantage products are generally safe, but do not allow your animal to lick the application spot until the liquid dries (about 30 minutes). Using a larger dosage than recommended for your pet's weight can result in an overdose that will require a veterinarian's assistance.