Comparing Flea & Tick Products

Flea and tick products are used to prevent domestic cats and dogs from catching these parasites or to treat the animal after it has contracted them.

  1. Types

    • Two main types of flea and tick products are available: those that are applied topically to the animal and those that are given orally. Because topical treatments that have not dried can be dangerous, choosing an oral medication is best if you have children or other animals in your home.

    Features

    • Some flea and tick products kill fleas living on the animal, some prevent flea eggs from hatching and some do both. If you want a medication that does both, choose a topical medication. Most oral medications only perform one duty or the other.

    Considerations

    • Flea eggs can fall off of your animal and stay in your home for several weeks before they hatch and can reinfest your animal after, so it's important to continue preventative treatments.