Frontline for cats: one barrier against 8 skin parasites

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One of the common problems with cats is ectoparasites. Fleas, ticks, cheylitelas, otodexodes, lice eaters cause a lot of trouble for furry pets. In addition to the fact that these insects cause itching and dermatitis, they are often carriers of serious infectious diseases. Infection is facilitated by contact with stray animals. To protect your domestic cat from blood-sucking parasites, it is necessary to regularly use special flea products. Many of them have a wide spectrum of action. The drug Frontline is one of them.

Precautionary measures

As mentioned above, the medication is one of the drugs that is low-risk for the body of dogs.
Complies with GOST standard 12.1.007.76 However, when working with Frontline, as with any medicine, precautions should be taken:

Strictly observe the dosage of the drug. Do not use in conjunction with an anti-parasitic collar. Observe age restrictions on the use of the product. Use with caution on weakened and older dogs. Use with caution for pregnant and lactating individuals. If possible, during these periods, avoid any chemical exposure without special indications. Be sure to check with your veterinarian about possible interactions between fipronil and other medications. Before use, you should make sure that the dog does not have an individual intolerance to the components of Frontline.

Reviews from veterinarians

Valentina B. (St. Petersburg):

“When dealing with insects in dogs, prevention is important. Examine your dogs after a walk, carefully look for ticks, fleas, lice eaters, and other insects. Frontline preparations provide protection against parasites and prevent diseases carried by ticks, lice eaters, fleas, and mosquitoes. Use medications strictly according to instructions. I consider drops and sprays less dangerous than tablets. They will not get into the oral cavity and will not cause poisoning. But the spray must be used with caution. There is no need to be afraid of these funds. The risk of poisoning is low, drops, spray, tablets are harmless"

Instructions for use and precautions

Treatment is carried out outdoors and indoors with open windows or a ventilation system that provides a good flow of fresh air. It differs for different release forms.

Drops are applied to the animal’s withers, after spreading the fur. You need to try to get the liquid directly onto the skin. Sprays are sprayed against hair growth. Tablets are given orally.

When treating, a few drops are instilled directly into the animal's ear. After this, the ear is folded in half and lightly massaged for better penetration of the substance. When applying the composition, it is necessary to avoid getting it into the animal’s mouth or eyes. To do this, before using the spray, moisten the area around the eyes, nose and mouth with clean, cool water. If trouble cannot be avoided, you should rinse off the remaining substance with plenty of water to relieve your pet of the tingling sensation caused by the substances included in the composition.

After the product is applied, the animal is held until the fur dries. This will avoid the transfer of active substances to pieces of furniture. You should also isolate the animal from contact with children for a day. At this time, it is better to refrain from playing with your pet and stroking it.

The maximum effect is achieved one day after application. It is allowed to wash your pet no earlier than 48 hours after the end of the procedure.

If there are several animals in one apartment, it is better to carry out preventive procedures for all on the same day. For prophylaxis, Frontline is used every 4 weeks. If the animal is bathed daily, it is recommended to reduce the time interval between treatments.

If the drug comes into contact with exposed skin of the person carrying out the treatment, the stained area should be washed with plenty of running water. Empty Frontline bottles are strictly prohibited from being reused for storing any substances or for other household purposes. After use, the empty container is tightly closed with a lid, packed in a plastic bag and thrown into the trash.

How often can drops and spray be used?

Frontline drops for cats should be used monthly. Only in this way can the active ingredient fipronil disrupt the life cycle of fleas and kill all ticks. The effect of the product can be observed for six weeks, but the risk of re-infection and the development of flea dermatitis appears after 4 weeks. You also need to remember that the effect of the Spot He solution stops after swimming, immersion in water, or after aggressive exposure to sunlight. But Spray and Combo are not afraid of weather surprises.

Some owners refuse to treat their animals monthly, citing the fact that fleas and ticks develop immunity to the drug. There is no scientific evidence for this claim. Difficulties in controlling fleas may be due to changing weather conditions or poor home hygiene. Effective control of parasites includes not only continuous year-round treatment of the animal, but also regular washing of bedding and mopping of floors.

Composition and release form of the drug Frontline

To combat skin parasites of cats, the French corporation Merial SAS created the drug Frontline. The company conducts serious research and has a strong reputation in the market for manufacturers of veterinary drugs.

The drug is available in three dosage forms:

• drops in polyethylene pipette bottles with a volume of 0.5 to 4.02 ml;
• spray in bottles with a sprayer of 100, 250 and 500 ml;
• Chewable tablets (for dogs only)

Table: dosage forms for cats

Photo gallery: release forms

Active ingredients of the veterinary drug Frontline:

• Fipronil has a detrimental effect on the central nervous system of parasites, disrupting the movement of nerve impulses. Causes paralysis and subsequent death of insects. Fipronil does not have a systemic effect on the body of a pet, destroying only pests.
• S-methoprene (as part of Frontline Combo) is an analogue of the hormone-regulator of insect growth, causes developmental anomalies at the egg and larval stages, prevents the appearance of adult individuals on animals and in places where they are kept.

Additionally, Frontline contains excipients:

• in the spray - isopropanol, copolyvidone, purified water, polysorbate;
• in drops on the withers - butylated hydroxyanisole, butylhydrotoluene, diethylene glycol, polyvidone, polysorbate.

The content of the active substance in any form ensures effective destruction of parasites.

Indications for use

Frontline is prescribed to cats:

• for the treatment and prevention of diseases caused by fleas, lice and lice, ixodid ticks;
• complex therapy of allergic dermatitis caused by fleas;
• to prevent the attachment and development of ectoparasites on animals.

Frontline Spot It repels mosquitoes and destroys:

• mature fleas;
• lice eaters;
• ixodid ticks (all phases of development);
• lice;
• scabies mites.

Frontline Combo also repels mosquitoes and destroys:

• fleas (mature and insects in the egg, larvae, and pupal stages);
• lice eaters;
• ixodid ticks (all phases of development);
• sarcoptoid mites.

Frontline Spray is used to destroy:

• mature fleas;
• lice eaters;
• ixodid ticks (all phases of development);
• lice.

Use of the product for kittens and pregnant cats

The drug does not have a toxic effect on the fetus and the growth of cubs, therefore it is successfully used in the treatment of kittens, pregnant and lactating cats.

Frontline protects both small kittens and nursing cats equally effectively

When treating a lactating cat, Frontline Spot On drops are better suited. Then there is no need to isolate the cubs or wait for the moisture to evaporate from the mother’s hair. Kittens over two days old can be treated with a spray. However, for such babies, the manual method of extermination will be simple and safe. In the delicate fur, tiny pests can be easily caught.

Directions for use and dosage

Sprays and drops on the withers are applied only externally, to the skin. The skin of the animal being processed must meet the following requirements:

It should be dry.

It is highly desirable that the skin be clean. The purer it is, the more evenly the medicine will be distributed throughout it, and the more pronounced its effect will be. Veterinarians advise washing your pet before treatment. The use of shampoos with an antiparasitic effect is not prohibited, but before doing so, you should consult a veterinarian (to avoid drug incompatibility).

It cannot have cuts, scratches, areas of inflammation or other types of erosion. Otherwise, the risk of poisoning increases sharply (the pure drug should not end up in the general circulation).

If there is a rash or signs of dermatitis on the skin, or there are other symptoms of allergic pathologies, the use of the drug should also be postponed “until better times.”

The spray is somewhat easier to use: it is used to evenly irrigate the pet’s fur on all parts of its body. True, after this the cat will need to be occupied with something for about an hour so that she does not have time for licking.

In the case when chewable tablets are used, the cat should not have pathologies of the digestive system, that is, constipation or diarrhea. In addition, it is highly undesirable to treat animals (regardless of the dosage form used) suffering from acute or chronic liver and kidney diseases.

Application of drops/spray

In such cases, the medicine is applied to the withers, between the shoulder blades. The fur needs to be parted (we remind you that it must be clean), after which the required volume of the drug is applied to the exposed skin.

When treating ear mites, everything is somewhat more complicated:

It is necessary to clean the ear canals from deposits of mite waste products. To do this, you can use either 3% hydrogen peroxide or sterile vegetable oil (you can make it yourself by “calcining” the oil in a water bath). Regular cotton swabs are ideal for this purpose. You need to clean your ears carefully, being careful not to damage the ear canal or eardrum.

After this, you need to drop a couple of drops of medicine into each ear canal. Plug the ear canal for about a minute with a finger, while lightly massaging the skin at the base of the ear. These actions help the medicine to be distributed more evenly, which significantly increases the effectiveness of treatment.

For treating cats, we recommend using only 0.5 ml pipettes. In this case, the dosage is extremely simple: one dispenser per animal.

Use of chewable tablets

With them everything is much simpler: the drug is given once, orally, always with food.

But! Considering the variety of packaging, release forms and concentrations of the active substance, we can give only one piece of advice: carefully read the instructions for use included with the medicine by the manufacturer! With tablets, everything is much simpler: the medicine is given at the rate of 2.5 mg of active substance per kilogram of live weight.

Reviews, pros and cons

For clarity, here are a few negative reviews

about the insectoacaricide "Frontline":

Review #1:
“I stopped buying Frontline for my dog ​​because this drug only partially kills fleas. A small colony still remains on the body, causing discomfort to my pet. If you choose such drops, then you should also wear a flea collar.”

Review No. 2:
“I bought Frontline spray on the advice of a veterinarian.” What can I say, I was unpleasantly surprised by the price (I paid 1000 rubles for a 100 ml jar). The smell of the spray was also surprising, pungent and unpleasant. I barely sprayed my dachshund with ticks, but he kept trying to break free and run away.”

Review #3:
“I do not recommend buying Frontline if there are a lot of ticks in your area. My Matilda caught babesiosis after being treated with this product. But Frontline really saves you from fleas. If the dog is an indoor dog, then this remedy is suitable.”

But it is worth noting that for the most part, reviews of Frontline are still positive. And veterinarians have long earned the trust of this brand of drugs. So, the advantages of Frontline insectoacaricides include

:

1. Speed ​​of impact on parasites. For example, Frontline Tri-Active begins to act within 5 minutes after application;
2. No side effects after use. Allergic reactions to Frontline products occur only occasionally if the animal is intolerant to any component of the composition;
3. With the help of a spray you can rid and protect newborn dogs from parasites;
4. "Frontline" is approved for lactating and pregnant bitches;
5. The manufacturer took care of the ease of use of its products by releasing drops, tablets, and spray;
6. "Frontline" is a therapeutic and prophylactic drug at the same time.

The following are grateful reviews from buyers of Frontline products.

:

Review #1:
“I’ve been buying Frontline for about 10 years now. I used to choose drops, but now I’ve switched to a spray. Very convenient, fast and effective, although not cheap. But the most important thing is that the drug is safe for dogs, does not cause vomiting, weakness, or refusal to eat.”

Review #2:

“What I really like about Frontline drops is their efficiency. In the evening I drop it on the dog’s neck, and in the morning the fleas are dead or half-dead, the animal stops itching. Before purchasing, I recommend asking the seller for documents for the veterinary drug so as not to pay for a counterfeit.”

Review #3:
“I’ve been buying Frontline for four years now.” The drops act quickly, are non-toxic, protect the dog for a long time, and the high price is due to the quality. You just need to remember that drops are a means of protection, not a panacea for fleas and ticks. Therefore, I still regularly examine the dog’s body for the presence of parasites. But in almost four years of use, the drops have never failed.”

Overview of the features of the Frontline action

Frontline refers to products used to eliminate and prevent the appearance of ectoparasites in cats and dogs. The drug has a superficial effect. After use, the components of the drug do not enter the blood, but are distributed over the surface and accumulate in the sebaceous glands. From these, the drug is gradually applied to the skin in the amount necessary to destroy parasites. Thus, after a single treatment, the effect of the drug remains for a fairly long period.

Fleas on a cat

Frontline destroys the following types of skin parasites:

• fleas;
• ixodid ticks;
• cheilitels;
• otodexodes;
• lice eaters;
• lice.

Life cycle of a dog flea

Frontline is produced in several forms, allowing you to choose the one that will be convenient to use for the animal owner.

Frontline composition

The main substance that provides the insecticidal effect of the drug is fipronil. In addition, in various forms of release, Frontline can be supplemented with several substances to enhance effectiveness. Among them:

• butylated hydroxyanisole;
• ethanol;
• butylated hydroxytoluene;
• excipient.

Chemical formula of finpronil

Pharmacology

Fipronil, which is the basis of the drug, affects insect receptors, disrupting the movement of impulses. This causes paralysis and subsequent death of the arthropods.

Frontline is active against almost all common skin parasites of animals. Accumulating in the hair follicles, epidermis and sebaceous glands, fipronil enters the animal’s skin along with the secretion. The effect occurs after 24-48 hours. During this time, the parasites present on the animal die, and the drug is completely absorbed into the skin. The protective properties last for a period of 15 to 45 days. The duration of exposure largely depends on the size of the animal, characteristics of care and accommodation.

The structure of a dog's skin

Contraindications and side effects

After the studies, no obvious side effects or contraindications to the use of the drug were identified. The manufacturer recommends refraining from treating kittens weighing up to 1 kg with the universal product to avoid overdose. If there is a need to process them, it is better to use Frontline, created for small animals. The concentration of the active substance in such preparations is significantly lower than in products for adults. They have a gentle effect on the still fragile body.

Treatment of a kitten with Frontline, created for small animals

It is also recommended to avoid using the product on animals with damaged skin. Multiple wounds can lead to penetration of the active substance into the blood. This will not cause any negative effects on your pet, but may cause minor short-term deterioration in well-being.

Skin parasites of cats

The most common and common in cats are:

• Fleas choose not only animals as victims, but also humans. Insects actively jump on the animal's skin and are easy to notice. More than 60 species of blood-sucking parasites carry over 200 diseases: anthrax, typhoid fever, salmonellosis, helminthiasis, and various fungal infections. Adult fleas do not live on the victim's body 24 hours a day. Having had enough, they leave the cat.
• Lice eaters are small wingless insects. They feed on particles of fur and epidermis, and blood. Like other ectoparasites, lice eaters force the cat to constantly scratch the skin until wounds appear. Damaged skin is easily attacked by pathogenic bacteria. When a cat is infected with a lice-eater, sleep and appetite are disrupted, immunity decreases, and allergies occur.
• Lice - when infested with lice, the animal behaves restlessly, scratches the skin, and loses hair. Lice are easy to spot. On your pet's light coat, black dots that look like dirt and dust are clearly visible - these are parasite excrement. In case of mass infection, the animal faces dermatitis and complete baldness. Lice are carried by helminth larvae.
• Ixodid ticks - attack cats in the warm season. These small insects feed on blood and grow greatly in size. A swollen tick can be noticed immediately. A cat's skin and fur are very sensitive, so the animal can easily shake off an unattached tick from its skin. In search of food, insects willingly move onto people. Ticks carry many diseases: viral encephalitis, typhus, tularemia, hemorrhagic fever, piroplasmosis, helminthiasis, etc.
• Scabies mites live on the skin of a cat, gnawing passages in the inner layer of the dermis. They feed on epithelial cells and lymph. From a sick animal the tick is transmitted to people.
• Sarcoptoid mites are the cause of scabies. The peculiarity of this form is the rapid baldness of the ears, belly and muzzle.
• Ear mites - attack the animal's hearing system. The cat shakes its head and tries to get its hind paw inside the ear. Dark brown crusts form in the ears, followed by pus. Without treatment, the parasites gradually penetrate through the inner ear into the brain, and the animal dies.
• Heartworms (dirofilaria) cause one of the most dangerous diseases, dirofilariasis. The helminth larvae enter the mouthparts of the mosquito with the blood of the infected creature, and with the next bite the parasites enter the body of the final victim. They live under the skin, in the muscles of internal organs. Parasites destroy the heart, lungs, and coronary vessels. Without treatment, the animal faces death.

Photo gallery: dangerous cat ectoparasites

Fleas are the most common skin parasites

Hairworm - the cause of focal baldness in cats

Cat lice are as common as fleas, although they are less well known.

Hungry and well-fed ticks are very different in appearance

Getting rid of ear mites is a long and expensive task.

Heartworm is the causative agent of dirofilariasis, spread by mosquitoes.

Contraindications

The drug Frontline is not toxic to cats, so the list of contraindications for using the drug consists of only two points:

• Individual intolerance to the drug in animals;
• The age of the kitten is 1 day after birth.

Possible side effects:

Hypersalivation.

Important!

If side effects occur, you should immediately stop using Frontline and wash it off your pet's fur. In case of severe allergic reactions, it is necessary to consult a veterinary doctor for help and administer anti-allergy drugs.

In addition, when choosing a particular product, it is important to pay attention to what age or weight of the animal it is intended for. The product range of this manufacturer allows you to select suitable drugs for both adults and kittens. This is especially convenient for those owners who have not one cat, but several pets of different ages.

This is especially convenient for those owners who have not one cat, but several pets of different ages.

In the range of the series you can find:

By the way, Frontline drops and sprays intended for cats can also be used for ferrets, which are increasingly found as pets. What are the specific features of certain Frontline tools?

How do drugs work?

Attention! Before use, consult a specialist.

You need to choose a product based on your pet’s problems and taking into account what parasites live in your region.

Frontline Act Three

It acts on 18 species of flying insects, and not only repels them, but also has an insecticidal effect. Thus, the product prevents many diseases, including piroplasmosis, Lyme disease, leishmaniasis, etc.

Frontline NexgarD tablets

Used to combat ticks and fleas. It works faster than drops and is suitable for both adult dogs and puppies. The effect of the tablet lasts about a month.

Frontline spot-on

Suitable for those animals that cannot walk in a collar or do not recognize the spray. Can be used every month. Fights otodectosis in animals.

Frontline combo

Can be used not only for dogs, but also for cats and ferrets. It destroys ticks in two days, fleas in a day. It is water resistant.

Frontline spray

It works quickly (as soon as it dries on the fur), but is not very suitable for large animals. Does not cause local allergic reactions.

Frontline Spray flea and tick spray for dogs and cats

Considering that this product can be used on cats and dogs of different ages and weights, it is necessary to study the attached instructions in detail. It describes in detail how many clicks need to be made to spray the body of an animal that has a specific size, weight, and coat length. Despite the comparative safety of this insecticide, it is still a poison, which means you should not overdo it when spraying your pet with it.

Frontline insecticidal sprays are sold in bottles of 100 and 250 ml. For cats, given their smaller size compared to large dog breeds, it is more advisable to buy the first option. At the same time, if you need to regularly treat a large number of cats and kittens, you can buy a 250 ml bottle.

There are some precautions to using the spray. So, it is advisable to apply the product to animal fur outdoors. In the case of cats that are not allowed outside, this can be problematic. In such situations, the spray should be used in a well-ventilated area, preferably on a balcony, veranda, etc. It is better not to spray the spray on the animal’s face, because it can get into the eyes and mucous membranes of the mouth and nose.

Product line

The company presents a fairly wide range of products in various categories. Manufactured medications are classified by purpose, dosage and effect. As for flea products, the brand is represented by the following range of drugs:

Advertising:

• "Frontline Tri-Act";
• "Frontline NexGar" and "Nexander Spectrum";
• "Frontline Combo";
• "Frontline Spot On";
• Frontline Spray.

All these drugs effectively fight parasites and protect your pet from repeated infections.

Frontline Nexgard chewable tablets for dogs

There are situations when it is very inconvenient or even contraindicated to use external means to combat the parasite. For example, there are wounds on the dog’s skin or you bathe him often and therefore the drops are not effective. Frontline Nexgard chewable tablets will come to your aid.

You will immediately cope with two tasks: firstly, get rid of external parasites; Secondly, the tablets act on worms inside the animal.

Nexgard chewable tablets for fleas, ticks and worms contain the active ingredient afoxolaner. The medicine tastes like beef stew, so dogs eat it with pleasure.

The effect of the medication begins within half an hour after administration. Complete destruction of parasites occurs within 6-48 hours.

It is very convenient that you only need to use the tablets once a month.

Instructions for use

The manufacturer took care not to calculate the dosage of the drug. You just need to weigh your pet and buy the necessary box. There are 4 types of tablets, depending on the weight of the animal: from 2 to 50 kg. Per 1 kg of animal weight, 2.5 mg of afoxolaner is required.

Give the medication separately or with food. Do not break the tablets or they will no longer be effective. The medicine is contraindicated in dogs weighing up to 2 kg or under 2 months of age. Give medication to pregnant and lactating females only with the consent of the veterinarian.

Frontline is an effective insect repellent for dogs. When choosing a form of medication, rely not only on ease of use, but also on existing contraindications, the age of the animal and the degree of infection.

There is also a separate form of Frontline for cats.

Approximate cost and existing analogues

In online stores the drug can be purchased at a price of 880 rubles. for a 100 ml spray bottle, Frontline Spot On drops - 460 rubles, Frontline Combo drops - 520 rubles. per dropper bottle.

Table: analogues of the drug Frontline

Recommendations

There is no need to bathe the animal 2 days before and 2 days after treatment. Until the fur is completely dry, you need to make sure that the animal does not lick the drug. Also, do not allow it near heating devices or open fire. Young children should be excluded from contact with the animal for 24 hours. During this time you cannot pet him. To avoid re-infestation and prevent fleas from breeding, the bedding should be replaced. In addition, the following rules must be observed:

• after applying the spray, you should wash your hands with soap;
• when applying the product, do not eat, drink or smoke;
• the drug should be stored out of the reach of children.

High effectiveness of the drug is achieved by following the recommended regimen of its use. When using the product, you should not use other insectoacaricidal drugs.

Advantages

The benefits of the product include:

• Convenient packaging. Thanks to the pipette, it is easy to apply; the liquid does not get on human skin and does not leave marks on it. This type of packaging helps to accurately calculate the dosage of the medicine.
• Efficiency. The drug destroys all types of insects, even those that have managed to lay larvae on the skin of a pet.
• There are no age restrictions. The Frontline line of antiparasitic drugs includes 3 types of medicinal products with different compositions and specific purposes. Frontline spray can be used by kittens from two days of age.
• Fast action. The medicine kills parasites within 24 hours.

The main advantage of the drug is the prevention of repeated episodes of insects.

Contraindications and side effects

Frontline is extremely toxic to rabbits. It is not allowed to use the product on kittens under 8 weeks of age and babies weighing less than 1 kg. The drug should not be used for pets who are weakened after serious illnesses, or if there are lesions on the cat’s skin.

The use of Frontline is not recommended for:

• individual intolerance to the components of the product;
• hypersensitivity to the components of the drug;
• allergic reactions.

Side effects from using Frontline medicines are rare. The animal's skin in the area where the drops are applied may temporarily become discolored or red, hair may fall out, or itching may occur. Allergic reactions can be eliminated by bathing the cat with shampoo and giving antihistamines.

Mechanism of action

After use, the active substance does not penetrate into the blood, but is distributed throughout the skin and hair. The drug has a contact effect - parasites die when they come into contact with Frontline microparticles. After the product gets on the skin, the active agents fipronil and S-methoprene, together with sebum, are distributed over the surface, enveloping the hairs and covering every millimeter of the cat’s body with an invisible veil.

Frontline acts contactally, destroying only parasites

special instructions

If there is increased individual sensitivity to the components of the drug and signs of allergic reactions appear, the treatment is stopped, the drug is washed off with water, and antihistamines are given orally. + When working with Frontline Combo, you should follow the rules of personal hygiene and safety precautions provided for working with medicinal products for animals. While working with the medicine, you are not allowed to drink, smoke, or eat. If Frontline Combo accidentally gets on the skin or mucous membranes, it should be washed off with a stream of water. After finishing work, wash your hands with warm water and soap. Empty drug pipettes must not be used for household purposes; they must be disposed of with household waste.

Release form:

FAQ

Can it be used by animals during pregnancy or lactation?

According to the results of numerous international tests, experts have not identified any negative effects on this category of pets. Frontline is the only insecticidal and acaricidal drug whose use is permitted during these periods. In order to treat kittens under 2 months old, the company produces it in the form of a spray.

Is it dangerous if a pet licks its fur after treatment with Frontline?

No. The drug is not dangerous to life and will not cause harm to the body, however, if it gets inside the body, it can cause excessive salivation, so to avoid this situation, you need to apply the product to those places where the cat cannot lick it off.

Experts advise using the drug to treat cats every 2 months, during periods of danger of infection. If there is a danger of ticks, then the procedure must be repeated every month no more than once.

Does Frontline repel or prevent tick bites?

No. The medicine does not affect the bite. It prevents the transmission of diseases from ticks to pets. The fact is that a tick needs from 48 to 72 hours to infect an animal - this is the time for transmission of infection. During this time, Frontline neutralizes the impact of the tick on the body.

The cat got wet or dirty after using the product, can it be washed?

Yes. The medicine is resistant to an aqueous environment, however, it should be left for 48 hours until the drug is absorbed into the skin. If the pet is washed more than 2 times a month, then treatment should be carried out more often.

Is there a need to take funds in parallel with Frontline?

A medicinal insectoacaricidal preparation in the form of a solution for external use, containing fipronil - 9.8% and S-methoprene - 8.8% as active ingredients, and polyvidone and polysorbate as excipients.

Indications for use

Used to combat fleas, lice, lice and ticks (ixodidae, cheylitella) of cats by topical (Spot On) application to the skin.

Dosage and method of administration

Frontline Combo is used to combat fleas, lice, lice and ticks (ixodidae, cheylitella) in cats by topical (Spot On) application to the skin. Before treatment, break off the tip of the pipette, spread the animal’s fur in the back area (between the shoulder blades) and, pressing the pipette, apply the drug to the skin at one or several points. The protective effect of the drug against ixodid ticks in cats lasts up to 3 weeks, against the imago and preimaginal phases of insect development up to 6 weeks. If the animal is severely affected by lice, fleas, lice, it is recommended to treat once a month. If the animal is washed more than 2 times per month, it is recommended to reduce the interval between treatments to 3 weeks. It is not recommended to wash animals within 48 hours after treatment with Frontline Combo, or to use other insectoacaricidal agents.

Side effects

In terms of the degree of impact on the body, Frontline Combo is a low-hazard substance (hazard class 4 according to GOST 12.1.007.76), in recommended doses, it does not have a skin-resorptive, sensitizing, embryotoxic, teratogenic or mutagenic effect. In case of contact with eyes, it causes mild irritation.

Contraindications

Increased individual sensitivity to the components of the drug. Sick and convalescent animals, as well as kittens under 8 weeks of age, cannot be treated.

Analogs

Fipronil is a popular remedy for ixodid ticks. There are many analogues containing it:

• Palladium Ultra Protect (drops);
• Bravecto;
• KRKA Fiprist;
• Sentry FiproGuard Max (contains cyphenothrin);
• Dana-Ultra from Api-San;
• Vet Agro Fiprex spray;
• Centrovet Rexolin;
• Bars-Forte;
• Barrier-Super.

Permethrin is also popular for insect control. Here are analogues with its content:

• Canigard SpotOn;
• Vectra 3D;
• Neostomasin;
• Drontal plus;
• Prazicide;
• Sentry.

S-methoprene is contained in Fipren, Certifect, Rexolin, Profi Line drops, Palladium Pet Line.

Are Frontline drugs safe?

• If the doses and rules of use are followed according to the instructions, the drug Frontline can rarely cause a negative reaction in the cat’s body, except in cases of individual intolerance to the components of the product in animals.
• However, when using the spray, the animal may experience short-term shortness of breath due to the large amount of liquid entering the animal's lungs.
• A double dose of the product, which the pet owner can use to enhance effectiveness, can harm the cat. The active component fipronil, in overdose, can cause tremors, convulsions and ataxia.
• If a kitten is treated with a single dose, there is a risk of developing intoxication.
• To prevent the drug from getting inside, it is recommended to put a protective collar on the animal, at least for a few hours.

Which is better: Frontline or Stronghold for cats?

This issue is being discussed in many forums for animal lovers, and the participants in the dispute are still very far from reaching a consensus.

But! We would like to remind you that these two drugs are not even analogues: in Frontline the “first fiddle” is played by fipronil, while in Stronghold it is selamectin.

Many breeders insist that Frontline is better because fipronil is less toxic. There is a considerable amount of truth in this, but still we should not forget about individual tolerance/intolerance to the components of the medicine.

We also recommend that you always consult with your veterinarian before using any of these products. Since the concepts of “better” or “worse” are very subjective.

The veterinarian must decide on the advisability of using one or more of the drug, based on how well the cat’s body tolerates the drug.

Answers to popular questions

Many cat owners are interested in questions related to the nuances of using Frontline

Since the cat is a member of the family, and the health of the pet is under the close attention of the owners, they are looking for answers to their questions related to the treatment of the cat’s skin and further actions

Is it possible to scratch after treatment?

After treatment, touching the cat is not allowed. The procedure must be carried out with rubber gloves to prevent contact of the substance with your hands. The drug is applied to the clean skin of the cat, from where, due to its accumulative properties, it is gradually absorbed into the sebaceous glands, mixed with skin secretions and acts on parasites, causing their death. If you scratch your cat after applying the drug, microcracks may form, through which the product will enter the bloodstream and cause a negative reaction.

Can it be used on a dog?

It is perfectly acceptable to use Frontline on a dog. The manufacturer produces a separate type of drug in the form of a spray and drops, intended for treating dogs. The amount of medication used depends on the dog's weight.

Is it possible to divide by less?

When separating the contents of the pipette, there is a risk of violating the dosage of the active component and the alcohol-containing element, which will lead to the ineffectiveness of the medicine.

Is it okay for pregnant cats?

The drug Frontline has been tested in clinical conditions and is considered an absolutely safe treatment for cats during pregnancy.

Is it possible to put drops in the ear?

You can put Frontline drops into your ear if you are infected with ear mites. The procedure must be performed by a veterinarian in a clinic setting. The ears must be clean so that no dirt remains deep in the ear.

To treat ear mites, a spray is also used, which is sprayed into the auricle after preliminary cleaning.

Is it possible to pet a cat?

Touching a treated cat is prohibited, especially for children and people prone to allergies. The cat should not be petted until the area where the drug is applied is completely dry (about 24 hours). It is not allowed to take a treated animal into bed.

Is it possible to wash a cat?

Bathing with (or without) shampoo 1 hour before treatment does not affect the effectiveness of the drug, provided that the pet’s fur and skin are completely dry. Washing or bathing the cat is allowed 48 hours after treatment.

How to distinguish from a fake

Since the drug Frontline is a popular remedy and is often recommended by veterinarians, fakes are sometimes found in pet pharmacies. To protect yourself from a useless purchase, it is worth knowing the distinctive features of the original. These include:

1. A plastic container with drops is always packed in a sealed cardboard package;
2. The Frontline logo is printed directly onto the dropper itself;
3. The company name is printed on the packaging;
4. The batch number and production date are duplicated on the applicator and cardboard base;
5. Each copy is accompanied by a leaflet with detailed instructions for use;
6. There are no additional holograms or stickers on the packaging;
7. For Frontline spray and drops, the composition, concentration, and volume of the drug are indicated;

These external signs are classic. Merial periodically changes some design elements. The color of the packaging or the photo of the cat may change. Some blisters are marked “PCT”, which replaces the Soviet quality mark and means that the product meets the requirements of GOST certification.

Instructions for use

Processing the animal takes no more than half an hour

. Before using it, it is recommended that you read the instructions for use included with each package. If drops are chosen for treatment, you must carefully cut off the tip of the plastic pipette. The fur between the cat's shoulder blades is parted with your hands, and the oily liquid is applied to the skin in a thin strip. The drug is quickly absorbed, no need to rub it in. It is forbidden to wash the cat 2 days before the procedure and for several days after it. Any moisture in your pet's fur is undesirable; it must be protected from rain or dew. If there are several cats living in the house, you will have to limit their contacts to avoid mutual licking. Children should not pet their pet for 3-4 days after treatment.

Vaccination schedule for kittens

Frontline Combo in the form of drops can be used to treat otodectosis. First, the auricle is thoroughly cleaned of brown crusts using cotton swabs and a special non-greasy lotion. Then 5-6 drops of the drug are carefully poured into the ear. The cat needs to be held tightly to prevent it from shaking its head.

The auricle is folded and gently massaged until the product is completely absorbed. In case of severe infection, the treatment is repeated after 4-5 days.

Frontline spray is suitable for treating kittens and smooth-haired cats. The procedure is best done outdoors. Before work, the cat's ears, eyes and nose are moistened with water, and the fur is combed with a brush or comb. The bottle is shaken and sprayed, kept at a distance of 15 cm from the animal. The product is evenly distributed throughout the body, including paws, tail, head, stomach

It is important to ensure that the drug does not get into the eyes and mouth of the animal. For 1 kg of cat's weight you will need 2-4 presses on the pump of a 250 ml bottle

There is no need to rub in the spray; the drug begins to act immediately after absorption. If necessary, the cat can be bathed the very next day after spraying with the spray. If several animals live in the house, simultaneous treatment must be carried out. It is recommended to spray the cat's bedding or her favorite chair with the product. This procedure is guaranteed to protect against ticks and prevent secondary infection.

How to use Frontline correctly - treatment algorithm

Before treatment, it is recommended to weigh the cat, determine the required dose, comb the cat’s fur, and remove all tangles. The pet's skin must be completely dry, undamaged, without open wounds or visible scratches at the site of application. For cats, the drug Frontline is used in 0.5 ml applicators.

The procedure for treating a cat with drops on the withers at home:

1. Wear protective gloves.
2. Remove the dropper bottle from the packaging, move the drug into the wide part of the bottle using tapping movements, and unscrew the tip of the dropper.
3. Spread the fur at the withers, exposing the skin at the junction of the cervical spine and the thoracic spine (on the shoulder blades).
4. Squeeze the pipette and apply a few drops of the solution in a heap, in a checkerboard pattern.
5. Distribute the preparation over the skin, running your hand several times against and along the growth of the fur.

Video: how to treat a cat for fleas using drops

Remember! Drops are applied pointwise in a checkerboard pattern to the area between the shoulder blades (at the withers).

To get rid of ear mites, 4-6 drops are injected into each ear canal. To distribute the drug evenly, the ear is closed and easily kneaded. The remaining drops in the pipette bottle can be applied to the withers.

Remember! For 2 days after treatment, protect the cat’s fur from moisture, do not bathe or use other drugs against skin parasites.

The procedure for self-treating a cat with Frontline spray:

1. Processing should be done outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
2. Wear protective gloves and respiratory protection.
3. Fasten the pet's protective neck collar and secure its jaws until the preparation dries completely on the fur.
4. Fluff the cat's fur against the natural hair growth.
5. Shake the bottle thoroughly.
6. Holding the spray can upward at a distance of 10–20 cm from the cat, press the head of the aerosol can.
7. Treat your pet until the fur is moistened, starting from the tail: back, belly, limbs.
8. To treat the face, groin and armpits, apply the product to the glove and rub into the fur, avoiding contact with the eyes and mucous membranes.
9. Brush the fur with a wide-toothed brush to get the product onto the skin.

The drug consumption is 3 ml per 1 kg of weight for short-haired cats and 6 ml for long-haired cats. The product is convenient to dose: one press removes a 0.5 ml dose of Frontline from a 100 ml bottle.

Typically required for cats weighing:

• up to 5 kg - from 30 for short-haired to 60 clicks for long-haired animals;
• up to 10 kg - from 60 to 120 presses;
• up to 15 kg - from 90 to 180 presses.

A single treatment of a cat with Frontline kills parasites in 1–2 days. Barrier protection against ticks lasts for 4 weeks, against fleas, lice and lice for 6 weeks.

Video: how to treat your pet for skin parasites using a spray

Remember! Treat all animals in the house, change bedding or disinfect them, otherwise re-infection is possible.

I recently got a new cat. A foundling, like all my animals. The poor guy jumped out onto the road opposite the dacha cooperative. It was at the end of autumn, with the onset of the first cold weather. The unfortunate animal was on the verge of death. I took him home. The cat was so scared and exhausted that I decided to give him time to recover from the stress. He went to the vet 3 days later. Upon examination, all possible parasites were discovered: worms, fleas and ear mites. The cat was prescribed treatment. The doctor advised to wait 5 days and treat for fleas and helminths. While the waiting period was passing, the other cat also began to itch, although the animals had almost no contact. During the second visit, the veterinarian recommended treating the cat with Frontline Combo anti-flea drops on the withers once, and treating the cat with Frontline Spot On drops twice according to the scheme. And he focused on replacing or disinfecting bed mats. I didn’t even think about changing the bedding! There was no need to wear any collars, and there was no aggressive smell; both pets tolerated the procedure well. An easy and simple solution, and the fleas were defeated. I noted for myself the importance of regular flea treatment. Parasite eggs can be brought in from the street on the soles of shoes. And then the infection will occur again.