Frontline for cats: one barrier against 8 skin parasites

Blood-sucking ectoparasites not only cause itchy skin that bothers pets, but also carry serious diseases. Both free-roaming pets and those that have never been outside can become infected with them. A lot of products have been developed to combat fleas, among which the imported Front Line line stands out.

Let's learn how to use different forms of this drug for cats.

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.

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

Frontline spray with a volume of 100 and 250 ml is most convenient for home use

Drops for the withers Frontline Spot It are available in a dropper bottle with detailed instructions

Frontline combo acts not only on adult parasites, but also on their eggs and larvae

Frontline Nexgard meat-flavored chewable tablets are for use only in dogs.

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.

special instructions

The active components of Frontline drops do not enter the systemic circulation, which reduces the likelihood of side effects. However, a local irritant reaction in the area where the product is applied is possible, manifested by redness, burning, and itching.

Frontline drops on the withers for dogs

In the presence of individual intolerance, the following is observed:

• loss of appetite;
• vomit;
• increased salivation;
• lacrimation;
• irritability or apathy;
• drowsiness, insomnia;
• body trembling, spasms.

In most cases, unpleasant symptoms disappear on their own within a few days. If this does not happen, you should seek help from specialists.

It is forbidden to use drops on puppies under 8 weeks of age, sick or weakened pets. Frontline is allowed to be used during pregnancy and lactation, but with special control from the owner.

On a note!

Puppies up to 8 weeks of age are allowed to use another Frontline spray to protect against fleas. The drug is applied to the fur and practically does not come into contact with the skin. The same treatment option is recommended for adult dogs with hypersensitive skin.

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

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:

• "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.

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.

How to distinguish the original Frontline from a fake?

Frontline drops are sold in most countries around the world. Like any other effective drug, it is very often counterfeited. In order not to give away money for counterfeit goods, you need to pay attention to important details.

Firstly, even single doses of the product are sold in individual cardboard packaging. If the seller offers to purchase a separate plastic pipette (motivating this by the fact that in order to reduce the cost of the drug, the store ordered bulk packaging), then it is better to refuse the purchase. Secondly, the lot number and expiration date must be indicated on the box. In this case, the batch number must be duplicated on the plastic applicator. In each box you can find an insert with information about first aid for the animal (in case of an allergic reaction), instructions for use. The applicator itself is additionally sealed in plastic (to protect it from small children). There should be no additional stickers, inserts or holograms in the packaging.

The following information is indicated on the back of the applicator itself:

• ;
• product name and type;
• marked “for external veterinary use only”;
• concentration of active ingredient;
• amount of liquid in the pipette.

Frontline drugs are manufactured in France, but since they are packaged in accordance with the rules and regulations of the consumer countries, Russian versions may be marked “PCT”. The appearance of cardboard boxes from different batches may differ; in particular, manufacturers change the color design and photographs of cats.

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.

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.

Contraindications and side effects from the drug Frontline

The product is not used:

• with hypersensitivity to the components of the drug;
• for infectious diseases;
• with decreased immunity after a recent illness;
• in the process of treating otodectosis (ear mites) when the integrity of the eardrum is damaged;
• in case of possible contact of the drug with the mucous membrane of the eyes, on wet or damaged skin.

When used according to the treatment regimen, the drug does not have any side effects. If the dose of a veterinary drug is exceeded, the animal may experience:

• salivation;
• vomit;
• rapid breathing.

If symptoms of overdose are pronounced, the cat should be shown to a veterinarian, the animal should be washed with hypoallergenic pet shampoo, and antihistamine therapy should be administered.

Remember! Strictly adhere to the regimen of using the drug, otherwise the effectiveness of killing parasites will decrease.

Processing technique

When applying drops, it is recommended to wear rubber gloves. You cannot bathe your pet for two days before treatment and for the same amount of time after it. Drops should not be used if the animal has an infectious disease and is weakened. The next day after treatment, you should not pet the animal or allow it near children. You should not eat, smoke or drink during surgery. Healthy pets also need to be treated.

The drugs are not used if there are injuries on the skin or if the fur or skin is damp. Apply to dry and clean skin. We do not combine drops with other insectoacaricidal agents. Do not use drops if you yourself suffer from allergies, respiratory or dermatological diseases. We apply it like this:

1. Before applying, remove the dog's collar, accessories, and clothing;
2. We spread the fur at the withers (where the dog cannot lick it);
3. We drip onto the skin. We don't rub it in. Do not touch until the wool is dry.

When applying the spray, you also need to follow the rules. We put a muzzle on the pet, a neck collar, and fix the jaws. Do not remove until the wool is dry. Apply to dry skin and coat. We put on gloves.

We spray anti-hair spray all over the dog's body. If the hair is long, lift it. We cover the dog's eyes when treating the ears and chest. Lightly rub the spray into the areas around the eyes and nose with your fingertips. If the spray causes vomiting, muscle tremors and salivation in the animal, rinse with plenty of water. We also treat the bedding with a spray. We do not allow the dog near the fire for an hour after the procedure.

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

Updated generation of insecticides

New generation drugs include Frontline Nexgard and Nexander Spectra. The first effectively fights blood-sucking parasites, and the second cleanses the body of helminths.

These two products are produced in the form of tablets, but not ordinary ones, but chewable ones, with a pleasant smell and taste.

Benefits of the insecticide:

• ideal for animals that require frequent bathing and shampooing;
• used for pets with skin diseases;
• can be mixed into food or given separately;
• thirty minutes is the time during which the tablet completely dissolves;
• as soon as the medicine takes effect, you can safely contact your pet and let him near other puppies and children;
• One dose of medication is enough to cleanse the dog’s body of parasites;

There are four dosage options for the drug:

• for animals weighing 2-4 kilograms, the dose is 11.3 milligrams;

• 4.1-10 kilograms – 28.3 milligrams;
• 10.1-25 kilograms – 68 milligrams;
• 25.1-50 kilograms – 136 milligrams.

If your pet's weight exceeds 50 kilograms, you can calculate the dose yourself: 2.5 milligrams per kilogram of weight.

The drug is contraindicated for puppies less than two months old or weighing less than 2 kilograms.

Frontline anti-tick tablets can be given to pregnant and lactating animals without restrictions.