There are approximately 200 types of fleas in the United States alone, according to vetinfo.com. While tiny, they can jump up to 16 inches and lay eggs within 48 hours of their first blood meals at a rate of 50 per day. While there are species of fleas commonly called "dog fleas" and "cat fleas," the cat flea actually infests more dogs in the U.S. than dog fleas. Dog fleas are more common in Europe.
-
Importance
-
Fleas can not only cause irritation, itching and allergies, but more serious health problems such as anemia, Lyme disease, the transmission of tapeworms and even death. Flea drops must also be administered properly if they are to work safely and effectively. Vet Info instructs owners to apply flea drops between a dog's shoulder blades (behind the neck) so they don't ingest the chemicals while being groomed and to refrain from bathing them for two days. In some warmer climate areas, yearlong applications may be necessary.
Advantage Flea Drops
-
Bayer HealthCare's Animal Health Division makes Advantage flea control drops for dogs. Advantage stops flea bites within five minutes, kills 98 to 100 percent of fleas in 12 hours, kills reinfesting fleas in two hours and kills 100 percent of chewing lice within one week. The active ingredient in Advantage flea drops is imidacloprid, which paralyzes the fleas' nervous systems, causing death. They are waterproof, come in different dosages depending on weight and one application provides one month of protection.
Frontline Flea Drop Products
-
Frontline flea products are made by the company Merial. Frontline products work on both fleas and ticks, killing 100 percent of fleas in 12 hours, continuing to kill reinfesting fleas for the duration of the dosage. Frontline products are waterproof and some can be used on pregnant and lactating dogs. The active ingredient in Frontline products is fipronil, which acts to break the life cycle of fleas and ticks. Fipronil is stored in the oil glands of the dog and is continually distributed to the skin and hair through hair follicles. Frontline Plus also has (S)-methoprene, which stops fleas resistant to fipronil by preventing them from reproducing. One dose provides on month of protection.
Availability and Pricing
-
Advantage and Frontline products are available through veterinarian offices and special mail-order companies. The average cost for one dose for both products as of 2010 is $10 to $15, though multiple-dose packs can be purchased for a discount.
Over the Counter
-
Over-the-counter flea drops are available, but experts at Vet Info do not recommend them. They carry greater risks of side effects, can trigger allergies and are generally less effective. There have also been multiple reports made by pet owners that have used over-the-counter flea medications on their animals that claim they have caused serious health problems.
-