Warnings for Advantix for Dogs

K-9 Advantix is a pesticide treatment for dogs that is designed to repel and kill biting insects such as fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies and lice. It is topically applied and its effects last for up to four weeks once applied.



Though effective in repelling insects, it does come with risks. K-9 Advantix contains powerful pesticides, imidacloprid and permethrin, that may affect some dogs adversely.

  1. Imidacloprid Warnings

    • Imidacloprid is used agriculturally for pest control and as a spray insecticide. It is meant to control sucking insects such as aphids, whiteflies and termites.

      It is not considered an irritant to the skin, nor is it considered to be carcinogenic. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has categorized imidacloprid as a substance in Toxicity Category IV, which is very low toxicity with dermal exposure.

      Imidacloprid works similarly to nicotine, and affects insects that come into contact with it on a neurological level.

      Though not reported in dogs, poisoning may occur if exposed to large quantities of imidacloprid. Symptoms of imidacloprid poisoning are similar to those of nicotine poisoning. The subject may experience fatigue, spasms, cramps or muscle weakness.

      Studies in dogs have not yielded significant side effects.

    Permethrin Warnings

    • Permethrin is a powerful insecticide, and is also a neurotoxin. It is used as a flea treatment in dogs and as a lice treatment in humans. It is generally believed to have low toxicity to dogs, but some may experience side effects nonetheless.

      Side effects may include tremors, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea and aggressive behavior.

      Reports from the United States Environmental Protection Agency has determined that permethrin is likely to be carcinogenic in humans, but has not made a statement regarding canine exposure to the chemical. Studies have shown instances of both lung and liver tumors in laboratory mice.

    Additional Warnings

    • K-9 Advantix is applied topically, and cases have been reported of irritation to the application site. If irritation occurs, cleansing the area with a mild soap and rinsing is recommended, and consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.

      If behavioral abnormalities are observered after the administration of K-9 Advantix, seek attention from a veterinarian immediately.

      K-9 Advantix is for use on dogs only. It is toxic to cats, and death has occurred due to direct application to cats, as well as in cats that have been exposed through contact with dogs that have been treated with K-9 Advantix.