How to Compare Flea & Tick Medications

Fleas and ticks carry diseases to pets, livestock and people. But not all flea and tick medications contain the same ingredients. Depending on where you live and your pet's health, it may limit the types of medications you can use.

  1. Ingredients

    • Each brand of pet flea and tick medication will have an active ingredient, such as fipronil or selemectin. This ingredient is what you and your vet compare when selecting medication for your dog.

    Warnings

    • Some medications should not be used on pregnant or nursing dogs and cats. Some flea and tick products may be too harsh for sick pets or very old pets. Some collie dog breeds react badly to selemectin.

    Other Considerations

    • Some ingredients will work not only to kill and repel fleas and ticks, but also mites, lice or other parasites. For example, selemectin kills also kills ear mites and sarcoptic mites.

    Application

    • Getting medication can stress a pet. How often do you give this medication? Is it once a month, once a day or as needed?