Topical Flea Treatments

Topical flea treatments are generally safe, easy to use and effective. In fact, ConsumerSearch.com states that veterinarians and pet experts recommend this type of treatment more than any other for short-term flea control. Because of their attributes, many pet owners use this type of medication to treat the fleas that are wreaking havoc on their pets. Often times, topical flea treatments also prevent fleas, as well as other pests, such as ticks; however, not all topical flea treatments are created equal and it is beneficial to do your research before applying them to your pet.

  1. Revolution

    • Revolution is a topical treatment that is used on both dogs and cats. Applied once a month between the shoulder blades, Revolution not only treats and prevents fleas, but also prevents heartworms, hookworms, ear mites and roundworms. This topical flea treatment is waterproof and available at veterinarian offices.

    Frontline Plus

    • Frontline Plus kills and prevents fleas and ticks on dogs and cats. According to DiscountPetMedicines.com, the Frontline Plus manufacturer states that Frontline Plus kills 100 percent of fleas on a pet within 18 hours and all of the ticks with 48 hours. Frontline Plus is applied between the shoulder blades once a month and is waterproof. Available at your veterinarian's office, Frontline Plus contains the ingredients fipronil and S-methoprene and is safe to use on puppies and kittens ages 8 weeks and older.

    Advantage Multi

    • Advantage Multi Dog is a versatile topical flea treatment that kills and prevents fleas, along with preventing heartworms and intestinal parasites. Advantage Multi Dog is safe to use on puppies 7 weeks of age and that weigh at least 3 lbs. Advantage Multi Cat is safe to use on kittens at least 9 weeks of age and 2 lbs. in weight. In addition, Advantage Multi Cat kills and prevents fleas, prevents heartworms and intestinal parasites and also treats and prevents ear mite infections. Both are available at most veterinary offices.

    K9 Advantix

    • K9 Advantix is a topical flea treatment that is only available for dogs. Applied once every four weeks, K9 Advantix is waterproof and kills 98 to 100 percent of fleas within 12 hours, states ValleyVet.com. In addition, K9 Advantix prevents and treats fleas, ticks, biting flies and mosquitoes in dogs and puppies 7 weeks of age and older. Contact your veterinarian to check if she carries this popular product.