A recent story from NBC warns of the dangers that can arise from improper use of "spot-on" flea treatments, such as Frontline and Advantage. Veterinarians have been prescribing these treatments for years because they're quite effective and easy to use.
Both Frontline and Advantage are applied once a month between the animal's shoulder blades. The treatment then disperses through the hair follicles and oil glands. They provide very effective flea control for one month, and are best used in conjunction with a careful program to kill the fleas in your home at the same time.
Improper use, however, can be dangerous or even deadly to pets. The EPA reported 44,000 sick pets in 2008 due to spot-on flea treatments. Six hundred of the animals died. The EPA says reactions can include vomiting, diarrhea, trembling, depression and seizures.
The EPA doesn't think these reactions were due to defective products, but rather improper use, such as using a dog product on a cat, or a product designed for a large dog on a small dog. The EPA plans to begin reviewing labels in order to determine how clear and concise the usage directions are.
One important note to keep in mind: flea and tick treatments made for dogs can contain permethrin, which can be fatal to cats. Never use a treatment designed for one species on another. And, when in doubt, consult your veterinarian. Used properly, spot-on flea treatments are quite safe, but they are still toxic. So, exercise caution, and read those labels carefully.
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