Advantage for Cats Active Ingredients

Fleas are a common problem with pets, even for cats who remain inside. These tiny pests attach to your animal's skin and hair, causing discomfort and potentially serious medical problems. Advantage for cats is a common remedy for fleas and insects on cats, but it's also a chemical. The active ingredients in Advantage can be potentially harmful when this product is not used correctly, per instructions.

  1. Advantage Active Ingredients

    • The most common forms of Advantage for cats are made with 9.1 percent Imidacloprid, the product's only active ingredient. Chemical pesticides like Advantage are only required by law to list active ingredients. Other agents added to the active ingredients need not be listed.

    Imidacloprid in Advantage for Cats

    • Imidacloprid, the active ingredient in Advantage for cats, is an insecticide. It works by blocking nerve receptors in insects, though it does not work against ticks. In order to help kill fleas and insects on your cats, Advantage collects in hair follicles, releasing slowly over time.

    Safely Using Advantage for Cats

    • Like all insecticides and chemical agents, it's possible for your cat to develop sensitivity to Advantage. Monitor your pet closely to see if skin becomes reddened or dry after prolonged use of this product. If you do notice that Advantage is having a negative effect on your cat, simply discontinue use for a few weeks.

      The active ingredient in Advantage for cats, Imidacloprid, is often used as a plant pesticide. It's a common chemical and should be safe to use on your pets as long as you follow application instructions. However, before beginning any flea or insect treatment on your cat consult with your veterinarian.