Difference Between Dog & Cat Flea Meds

Fleas are an uncomfortable malady that plague both dogs and cats. There are a variety of commercial medications to repel these parasitic invaders, but there are differences between the solutions formulated for dogs and those made for cats.

  1. Significance

    • Not all flea medications utilize the same ingredients. Some chemicals that are approved for use in dogs may be toxic to cats and vice versa.

    Amount

    • Some medications utilize the same ingredients for dogs and cat medications, but the amount of chemicals in the formulas are different.

    Size

    • A wide scope of weight and size differences between dogs and cats effects not only the chemical composition of the medicine, but the dosage requirements as well.

    Warning

    • Using the wrong dosage of medication or chemical formulation can lead to serious side effects including coma, seizure or death. When choosing over-the-counter medications, pick one specifically formulated for dogs or cats.

    Expert Insight

    • If your cat or dog is experiencing ill effects from fleas or flea medication, speak to a licensed veterinary medical practitioner as soon as possible. Prescription treatments may be needed.