The Best Cat Flea Treatments
If you own a cat, you know that ensuring they’re in good health is of paramount importance. Fleas, ticks, and other parasite infestations are common problems that can cause your cat significant discomfort or worse. Therefore, administering regular flea treatments is crucial. Knowing which flea treatment is best for your cat can be difficult, and the choice can seem overwhelming. With our guide to the best cat flea treatments, you can make an informed choice about which treatment will best suit you and your cat.
What to Look For
In our research, we found that the best flea treatment for cats is easy to use, safe, and effective. For example, Bayer’s Advantage II doesn’t just kill fleas; it also gets rid of larvae and eggs. However, if your cat needs immediate relief, Capstar’s oral medicine starts working in only 30 minutes. Read on to learn more about our favorite picks. We’re sure you’ll find the proper flea treatment for your furry friend.
Bayer Advantage II Flea Prevention and Treatment
This topical flea prevention treatment is backed by the Bayer name and provides your adult cat with flea prevention and treatment that can start working within 12 hours of application. It can kill adult fleas, larvae, and eggs, so your cat will be protected from the nasty buggers no matter their stage in the life cycle. Plus, this treatment lasts up to 30 days, which should give you and your cat some peace of mind.
Pros:
- Vet-recommended formula
- Fragrance-free
- Easy to apply
Cons:
- One month’s supply means the relatively high cost can add up over time
Capstar Fast-Acting Oral Flea Treatment
This fast-acting formula from Capstar is an oral treatment that can kill up to 90% of adult fleas in six hours with one simple dose. And since each package includes six tablets, you can keep them on hand in case your furry friend is exposed to fleas in the future.
Pros:
- Starts killing fleas within 30 minutes of use
- Safe to use up to once per day in case of re-infestation
- Suitable for cats from 2 – 25 lbs
Cons:
- Oral treatments can be difficult to administer
Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Treatment
These super-convenient waterproof drops from Frontline soak into cats’ skin to protect them from unwanted visitors for 30 days. The dual-action formula is targeted to kill fleas of all life stages as well as ticks that can transmit Lyme disease, making it a great choice for all-around protection from nasty critters.
Pros:
- Frontline’s been a trusted name in flea and tick protection for decades
- Suitable for kittens over eight weeks old and weighing over 1½ lbs
- Full month of protection with one dose
Cons:
- Some cats may experience skin irritation
TevraPet Actispot II Flea Prevention
Keep it simple
This external treatment from TevraPet gives you six months of protection from fleas for a fraction of the cost per unit of many other options on the market. The easy-to-apply formula soaks into your cat’s skin so that you can avoid having to sneak a pill past their keen senses.
Pros:
- Works against all stages of the flea’s life cycle
- Easy application avoids bites associated with administering pills
- Contains six doses of month-long protection at a great price
Cons:
- Some packages have included empty tubes that needed to be sent back and replaced
Amazon Basics Flea and Tick Topical
Affordably effective
This affordable option from Amazon Basics provides protection from fleas and ticks at a remarkable value. This waterproof topical treatment acts continuously for 30 days after you administer it, and since you can purchase packs of three or six doses, you can cover your cat’s pest-prevention needs for months at a time.
Pros:
- Kills all stages of flea life cycle
- Two-in-one formula kills ticks as well
- Appropriate for cats weighing 1½ lbs and up
Cons:
- Contains chemicals that can cause irritation in some cats
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a number of cats of varying ages and weights. Which products should I consider?
Many flea treatments specify a minimum age and weight requirement for your cat. Some medicines specify a maximum weight. These guidelines ensure that the cat gets the correct dosage. If you have more than one cat, you may find it easier to choose a treatment that can be used for all cats aged over eight weeks to avoid buying multiple products.
I am interested in using natural products for my cat. What should I look for?
Natural cat care products are becoming more popular, and flea and tick treatments are no exception. It is understandable that you may prefer organic products or products that contain essential oils to prevent your cat from getting fleas. Most natural pet care products will advertise their all-natural or organic status, but if it is not apparent from the name or description, look for the list of ingredients. Essential oils are often included in these treatments, as some have natural antiseptic properties and may effectively kill and further repel parasites.
It’s difficult for me to find time to treat my cat with flea treatments. What should I consider?
If you have a busy lifestyle, it can be easy to overlook flea prevention for your cat. If your cat spends a lot of time outdoors, you may have limited opportunities to apply the treatment, and if you have a cat who hates being treated, it can feel like a real struggle. Flea collars offer an alternative to placing drops onto your cat’s skin and can provide several months of protection against fleas and other parasites. Selecting a lightweight, flexible collar can reassure you that your cat will be protected and comfortable.
Why Trust Us
Since 2008, CatTime has provided millions of cat owners with all the information they need to keep their pets happy and healthy. Our experts know exactly what it takes to raise our furry friends and our goal is to help all owners, new or experienced, care for their cats with all the right food, toys, equipment, and accessories.