Flea shampoos for cats and dogs: review of popular products and instructions for proper use

The health of their beloved pet is important to all cat owners. To avoid the appearance of various infectious diseases, it is necessary to monitor the cleanliness of the fur and skin of a furry animal, especially when it is in free contact with other animals that can be a source of infection with ectoparasites. There are a huge number of anti-flea shampoos. You can make the right choice and purchase the best product for your pet based on an analysis of the most popular and sought-after cat flea shampoos.

Effect of flea shampoo

There are two types of flea shampoos: to get rid of insects and to prevent infection. Synthetic pyrethroids (their list below) and essential oils can act as active substances that take on the fight against parasites.

Shampoos work as follows:

The foam envelops the parasite from all sides, and the active substance (pyrethroid) destroys the cocoon, shell and gets inside.

The active substance blocks the transmission of nerve impulses in fleas, and they die. Complete destruction occurs 48 hours after using the product. Shampoos are active against fleas at all stages of development: pupae, eggs, larvae and adults.

The active ingredients in the ingredient list are as follows:

• pyrethrum (a plant poison extracted from Persian daisies);
• phenothrin;
• etofenprox.

The effect of essential oils in shampoo is somewhat different: the strong smell of plant extracts does not kill the parasite, but only repels it. That is why products containing exclusively oils are classified as preventative.

The most potent poison is pyrethrum. Completely harmless to pets, it copes well with parasites. Even if accidentally licked and put into the mouth, this substance does not cause any harm to pets. Shampoos with these components deserve positive reviews from owners for their safety and effectiveness: for example, Meadow shampoo from the AVZ company. Phenothrin and etofenprox act in a similar way. They are obtained synthetically, therefore they are more resistant to external influences (water and light).

Pyrethroids are poisonous substances used to combat fleas, which come in two types: poisons of plant origin (pyrmethrins, extracted from Persian chamomile) and their artificial analogues (phenothrin and etofenprox).

The World Health Organization recommends permethrin for use. Most medicated shampoos for animals contain this very substance. Preventative agents (for example, Meadow shampoo) are limited to plant extracts (wormwood, tea tree and others).

Both remedies for biting insects take care of the hair, make the fur silky and soft, and also cleanse the skin.

To get rid of parasites, only medicinal shampoo that kills fleas is used, and for prevention, preventative shampoo based on essential oils and natural plant extracts is suitable.

Essential oils that repel fleas on cats and dogs:

• sagebrush;
• eucalyptus;
• anise;
• peppermint;
• thyme (thyme);
• lemongrass (lemongrass);
• conifers: pine or cedar;
• lavender;
• tea tree.

These oils are part of therapeutic and prophylactic products.

Also find out how to get rid of fleas using soap from our article - What types of soap can get rid of fleas once and for all.

Aromatherapy is not only a pleasant activity, but also a way to treat fleas in cats and dogs

Additional components in the composition of medicinal shampoo

In addition to the active ingredients that kill or repel parasites, the product contains additional substances that enhance the therapeutic effect:

• extracts of medicinal plants (calendula, coltsfoot, chamomile) have a calming effect, cope with itching and irritation;
• salicylic acid - anti-inflammatory component;
• water;
• fragrances;
• flavorings (natural or artificial);
• soap root extract or other soap-based skin cleansing ingredients;
• Surfactant (glyceryl laurate, sodium sulfoethoxylate, amidobetaine, cyclimide) - kills bacteria and acts as a hair conditioner;
• methionine (thanks to it, hair grows better, becomes stronger and the animal gets rid of dandruff);
• Sodium lauryl sulfate is a foaming substance that helps the active components penetrate between the wool and cleanses the wool of dirt.

Pros and cons of shampoos

Each method of treating fleas on four-legged friends has its pros and cons. Shampoo is the simplest, inexpensive remedy, but not always effective.

Advantages

• Shampoos are suitable for all breeds of cats and dogs, including long-haired beauties.
• No unpleasant or complicated procedures: bathe your pet and dry it in the usual way, no additional products will be required.
• Detergents with preventive and therapeutic effects have relatively low toxicity; they rarely cause allergies or side effects.
• They can be used even by babies (puppies and kittens from one month of age). For example, Celandine.

Doctor Zoo produces special flea shampoos for kittens.
Veterinarians note several significant disadvantages of this method of treating and preventing fleas.

Flaws

• Most inexpensive shampoos consist of water, soap and thickeners, which means they have minimal benefits. To avoid making a mistake in your choice, we recommend choosing medium-priced products.
• Doctors recommend supplementing shampoos with drops and sprays, as they have a long-lasting effect and protect the animal from re-infection. The effect of detergents (both therapeutic and prophylactic) ends with taking a bath and after some time the treatment has to be repeated again.
• For the same reason, some shampoos do not cope with their task (Dana and Barsik shampoos received the least positive reviews from readers).
• Shampoos that work effectively are expensive.

Directions for use and precautions

Babies should be washed in a basin; adult cats and dogs should be washed directly in the bathtub.

Before swimming, set the temperature and prepare a towel.

Both dry and liquid flea shampoo are diluted in water before use. If you apply shampoo directly to the skin, the concentration will be too strong and the hair will not wash well.

Depending on the brand of product, the shampoo should be left in for five minutes (or less).

Hold your pet tightly to prevent him from breaking free and licking off the poisonous foam. If toxic foam gets into the mouth, it can cause unpleasant consequences and cause the animal to feel unwell.

After curing, the foam is thoroughly washed off with water.

The wool is dried with a towel and combed.

To prevent re-infection, be sure to treat carpets, floors, animal bedding, and furniture with the solution. For washing and washing, you can use the same shampoo diluted in water according to the proportion indicated in the instructions on the package. Experienced owners advise using shampoo in combination with other products: a collar, drops or spray (of the same brand or another manufacturer to choose from).

Bathing a small pet in a basin is more convenient than in a bath or shower

Now is the time to listen to the opinion of an experienced cat owner and find out what the dogs themselves think about fleas. First, a detailed and short video about what to do if your cat has fleas.

Making your own detergent

Fleas are a nuisance that needs to be dealt with at the first sign. They not only annoy your pet, but also carry dangerous diseases. These are plague, worms, encephalitis, fungal infections, anthrax. An effective budget remedy can be made at home. Store-bought products are good, but sometimes they pose some danger in some cases.

Medicinal plants are known to repel parasites. Their effect extends not only to animals, but to people, interior items, and bedding. Near the place where your pet sleeps, you can hang a small bush of dried wormwood or mint. When fresh, it can be used for homemade detergent. It is enough to prepare a decoction, cool it, add tansy (optional) and some grated laundry soap.

Fleas, ticks, and other harmful insects react to strong odors. Here you can use cheap essential oils from any pharmacy. It is recommended to dilute 3-4 drops with warm water, add grated soap without additives (preferably made according to GOST). The procedure can be done 1-2 times a week.

Which flea shampoo to choose: types of shampoos

Let's see what the most popular flea products are produced in Russia and abroad.

Flea shampoo for cats

1. Miss Kiss. Produced by Swiss. The active substance is permethrin. Dosage - one milliliter per 4 kg of animal weight.
2. BioVax. Production is located in Moscow (“Biosphere”). In addition to the main active ingredient, the composition contains an extract of wormwood, which has both a preventive and therapeutic effect. For quick results, supplement treatment with this shampoo with a local remedy: drops on the withers or spray.
3. RolfClub is also produced in Russia. The active ingredient is permethrin. The list of ingredients includes vitamins and natural flavors. The shampoo strengthens the coat and helps restore the skin. Suitable for all cat breeds.
4. Celandine is produced by the same company, with the same active ingredient. Additionally, the composition includes aloe extract and vitamin B5. The shampoo is not allowed for kittens (up to 2 months) and pregnant cats. Effective in one application.
5. BIO-GROOM is produced by the American company BioDerm. The composition includes natural and synthetic substances that care for pets' skin and coat. The same company produces dry shampoos and care products.
6. Lugovoy is based on a pyrethroid that works in one application. Contains plantain, chamomile and burdock extracts. Effective against flea infections, ticks and lice. According to buyers, this is one of the most effective products at the best price.
7. Faithful friend - used only for preventive purposes, contains plant components (wormwood, chamomile) that repel parasites. It is inexpensive (from 78 rubles per bottle).
8. Barsik is a Russian-made product that costs from 30 rubles. According to the owners, this remedy repels parasites, but the effect does not last long: after 2-3 days (or later, it all depends on the pet’s lifestyle), the treatment must be repeated again.

Flea shampoo for kittens

The following brands of shampoos can be used for small pets:

1. Ms Kiss from Swiss Laboratory Defense AG (from four months);
2. BIO-GROOM is a product from the USA. Produced using a special “tear-free” formula.
3. Celandine also contains substances that do not irritate the eyes of babies.
4. Four with a tail - foams quickly, smells nice, suitable for prevention. Costs about 90 rubles.

To check if the product is working, check the coat several times within 24 to 72 hours after bathing. Comb out dead parasites.

Check to see if there are still fleas and look for any allergy spots or rashes. If the shampoo is not suitable, choose a different brand, or better yet, consult your doctor.

You can reuse the shampoo after ten days. Exact recommendations are indicated in the instructions on the packaging.

You can read the full instructions for shampoos on the official website of “Veterinarka.ru”: https://www.veterinarka.ru/

To choose the right product for your pet, we recommend watching a video from Chihuahua Sophie. She will dispel popular myths about fleas on dogs and tell you how to get rid of the parasites. You'll also learn the truth about whether you can buy an all-purpose flea and tick treatment.

Instructions for use

Each anti-flea shampoo has its own characteristics, including the rules of use. Before using the product, be sure to study the instructions, decide on the dosage and procedure.

How to treat an animal with soap?

How to wash a cat is decided by the owner, focusing on the pet’s character, his attitude to the washing process, and aggressiveness. Several recommendations will help make the process more comfortable for both parties and more effective:

• the water should be slightly warmer than room temperature;
• the water level in the bath or basin should reach the animal approximately to the stomach;
• the wool should be moistened generously with water, without touching the head;
• the shampoo is applied to the back and foamed properly, distributing it throughout the body, then you need to wait the time specified in the instructions;
• The product must be thoroughly rinsed with plenty of water (it is most convenient to use a shower).

After washing your pet, you need to comb it to remove dead insects, eggs and larvae.

Frequency of the procedure

You should not wash your cat too often with medicated flea shampoos, since the chemical insecticidal substances included in their composition can gradually accumulate in the body, causing intoxication, and in addition negatively affect the condition of the coat.

It is enough to wash your cat once to rid him of fleas. In a neglected state, it is allowed to reuse the shampoo 5 - 7 days after the first wash. But after this you need to take a break for 2 months.

Herbal shampoos contain natural ingredients, so they can be used without fear for the cat’s health. Preventive shampoo can be used every 10 to 15 days, but in general the frequency depends on how long the product lasts.

How long does the effect last after using the drug?

Medicinal shampoos act immediately, fleas die during the washing process. The effect of phytoshampoo can last from 8 – 10 hours to 2-3 weeks after bathing. It all depends on what ingredients are included in the product and in what concentration.

What is recommended to combine anti-flea shampoo treatment with?

To enhance the effect, the use of shampoo is often combined with the use of other antiparasitic agents.

It can be:

• flea drops;
• sprays;
• anti-flea collar.

Usually the scheme is as follows: the cat is first washed, and then flea drops or spray are applied or a collar is put on. Before combining products, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian. Some drugs can mutually enhance the toxic effects of each other, which will lead to intoxication of the animal.

Video: myths and truth about fleas on dogs

Flea shampoo for dogs

1. Leopard - contains plant components (lavender and cloves), costus, pelargonium, sorbitol and glycerin. Suitable for small pets.
2. Dana - suitable for washing carpets, bedding and furniture. Heals skin, fights odors. It should not be used by pregnant bitches or weakened animals.
3. Bim - contains only natural plant components, the effect lasts for a long time.
4. Phytoelite is the active substance permethrin. Contains hair conditioning herbs.
5. Mr. Bruno - suitable for both treatment and prevention. Does not cause allergies and does not contain harmful additives.
6. Doctor ZOO - works with vegetable oils (thyme, chamomile, red pepper and bergamot).
7. Lugovoy - according to reviews from experienced owners, this is one of the most effective and inexpensive shampoos for dogs. Contains extracts of burdock, dandelion, plantain and chamomile. Suitable for all breeds, including dogs with long hair and coarse hair.
8. Shampoo from the Netherlands Beaphar acts very gently, but effectively gets rid of parasites.
9. Celandine - suitable only for prevention, contains permethrin.
10. Frontline - according to reviews from many dog ​​owners, this product is more expensive than others, so fakes are more common.

Some flea treatments are suitable not only for dogs, but also for cats.

Flea shampoo for puppies

For puppies, the most effective remedies that have shown themselves to be effective are:

1. Leopard;
2. Dana;
3. Phytoelite (for babies from two months);
4. Doctor ZOO (from 14 days);
5. Lugovoi (from one year);
6. Beaphar (from 6 months);

How does infection manifest itself?

Typically, signs of infection look like this:

• Anxiety. The kitten becomes restless, especially anxious during sleep, as fleas cause discomfort when moving.
• Itching. Unpleasant sensations can be caused by both parasites and an allergic reaction to their bites.
• Flea bite marks or abrasions from teeth and claws when scratching.
• Decreased appetite. The kitten loses peace and experiences discomfort so much that it may refuse to eat.
• Exhaustion. Fleas feed on blood. With a high degree of infection, the animal loses weight and becomes weaker.

What veterinarians and experienced owners say

All cat lovers have at least once encountered such a problem as parasites. That’s how it turned out for me, I don’t even know where he got them. First I tried combing them out, but that didn't help at all. They multiply at a tremendous speed and the cat simply could not sit still. The pet store offered me several shampoos. I chose the company CISTOTEL. As for the price, I can’t say whether it’s cheap or expensive. I took it for 60 rubles. At home, after reading the instructions, I caught the cat and began to fight the parasites. I recommend washing with two people. The method of use is simple: wet, rub in shampoo, wait 5-7 minutes, rinse, dry. The effect is visible immediately after the first use. They become lethargic. This is what I observed after the first time: a significant reduction in parasites, from the second the destruction of the remnants, and from the 3rd and 4th the destruction of those that hatched. I washed it the first 4 times every 3 days.

Roman, Chistopol

https://otzovik.com/review_247382.html

I took a kitten from the street who was very weak and looked bad. His body was covered with many fleas, which drained all the vitality from the kitten. I decided to treat the animal with the already well-known Celandine shampoo. I was amazed at the effect of this unique remedy. The fleas first tried to leave the kitten, but after a few minutes their hours were numbered. The shampoo has a pleasant smell and after treatment gives a pleasant smell to the animal. I will give a little advice to beginners - after washing, it is recommended to wipe the animal dry, or you can dry it with a hairdryer. This helps reduce the risk of getting colds. After all, ignorance of animal care does not exempt you from dire consequences. The shampoo is very good and the kitten is protected for two months. The shampoo itself is herbal based and is an anti-allergenic product. The product is especially beneficial for those who keep both cats and dogs in large numbers, because it is universal.

vEN0m

https://otzovik.com/review_1289105.html

At home I have my own small zoo. Its inhabitants: a miniature poodle, a Chinese crested dog, a mongrel and a cat. The topic of fleas ranks first for me. After all, as soon as one animal picks up this nasty thing, it will immediately spread to all the others. Every month I wash my dogs with Frontline, my cat once every three months, then I apply drops of either Bars or BlochNet. Everything works perfectly, they walk in the parks, near the pond (they don’t go into the water), at the dacha and everything is fine (pah-pah-pah). The shampoo is inexpensive, does not dry out the animal’s skin and works quite quickly (each one sits in the foam for 10 minutes, then rinse off). The veterinarian recommended more expensive means of protection, like Frontline, but it is often counterfeited. My animals and I are satisfied with the quality.

Elena

Read also:  How to quickly and effectively rid a cat of fleas using traditional methods

https://irecommend.ru/content/pokupayu-tolko-etot-shampun-foto-shampunya-i-zooparka

Our cat has fleas. I picked it up from my neighbors' dog. She manages to find a common language with him. And so, the result was not long in coming. The cat, of course, began to itch. Did not sleep well. We ran to the store, where they recommended Phytoelite shampoo to us. I don’t know how it is with the prices; I haven’t bought such products before, as they were unnecessary. It cost 64 rubles. The only advantage of it is that it simply makes the cat’s fur clean. But it doesn't kill fleas. When we went to the vet, she said that drops were needed. No shampoo will save you from fleas. After using the drops (dropped on the withers), the fleas were gone, fleas were killed on the spot. And to this day the cat is fine, I'm glad. I’m not urging anyone to do anything, I’m just stating a fact and the words of the veterinarian.

Mafiona

https://irecommend.ru/content/shampuni-ne-pomogayut-ot-blokh-slova-veterinara-foto-spasennoi-kaplyami-koshki

General rules of application

1. Any drug is first diluted in water before use. This rule must always be observed, regardless of whether it is dry or liquid. If this rule is neglected, the strong concentration of the composition will not allow the animal’s fur to be thoroughly washed, which will cause him a lot of inconvenience.
2. Afterwards, the mixture is applied to the animal’s fur and left for the duration of exposure. Depending on the manufacturer, the period may vary, but most often it does not exceed 5 minutes. During this time, you should carefully monitor the animal and hold it tightly enough. If the cat manages to escape, it may begin to lick itself, which is highly undesirable. This may cause the pet's health to deteriorate.
3. At the third stage, the cat's fur is thoroughly washed with water;
4. The animal's fur is dried and combed.

Final table: comparing flea shampoos for cats

Rating of the best drugs

Despite the fact that the assortment is so large, there are also undisputed leaders in popularity.

After making sure that your pet has blood-sucking insects, you should rid your cat of fleas.

The product consists exclusively of natural ingredients, so there is no threat to the life and health of your pet.

Foresto flea collar (Bayer). Suitable for cats aged 7 months and older, valid for up to 8 months, waterproof. This method of getting rid of “unwanted guests” is popular, primarily due to its quick effect and long-term prevention of the reappearance of insects. The effectiveness is determined by the presence of two components: flumethrin and imidacloprid. The drug affects the central nervous system of insects. Effective not only against fleas, but also ticks and lice. A flea collar prevents flea larvae from developing on the animal's body. Judging by the reviews, this is an excellent remedy for treating an infected animal. It has no side effects or unpleasant odor. Can even be used for pregnant cats. The main condition is continuous wearing of the collar.

Frontline flea spray. The active ingredients are fipronil and S-methoprene. Can be used even for kittens aged 2 months and older. Pet owners speak very highly of this product. It begins to act 24 hours after application and protects against the reappearance of fleas for two months.

Guaranteed protection against lice eaters – for one month.

Zoetis flea drops (Pfizer) Stronghold. The main feature of this drug is that it is effective against both mature and immature forms of parasites. A single application is enough, and after a couple of days your pet will forget about all its inconveniences. The active substance is selamectin. The main thing in use is to adhere to the exact dosage. Many cat lovers agree that this is the most effective remedy. Getting rid of insects occurs quickly and without any discomfort for the cat. No side effects were noticed: itching, irritation, etc. Perhaps the only drawback is that the drug is recommended to be used at least from the age of seven weeks.

The drug has a wide spectrum of action; it is used against scabies, ear mites, ascaris and hookworms.

Inspector Total drops. The solution for external use is used only if your pet is already 1.5 months old. The main active ingredients are fipronil and moxidectin. These substances are absorbed into the blood through the skin, and their maximum concentration is observed approximately 4 weeks after the procedure.

Shampoo RolfClub. The composition has a cosmetic and therapeutic-prophylactic effect. Judging by the cost and volume of packaging, the product is quite affordable. Thanks to this shampoo, the coat becomes smooth and silky. It is prevented from falling out. The active substance is permethrin. It has an insecticidal, anti-pediculosis, acaricidal effect. Most often this is the remedy used at home. Disadvantages include a short period of validity - up to one month, as well as the lack of a dispenser, and the fact that the shampoo does not foam well.

Ultrasonic keychain SITITEK TickLess Pet. This is truly modern technology to protect your pet's health! The keychain is completely safe for cats, there are no odors or harmful toxic compounds. There are no restrictions on the age and weight of your pet. The only caveat is that it will be very uncomfortable for a one and a half month old kitten to wear such an “accessory”. The keychain is most often used for cats prone to allergies, when other means are difficult to use.

The device generates ultrasonic vibrations, too “loud” for parasites, and invisible to cats and people.

As you can see, the range of devices and drugs to combat parasites is more than sufficient. Even if your pet is capricious or allergic, you will definitely find a product that is ideal for him. And remember, the best treatment is prevention.

A veterinarian will help you choose the most effective and safest insecticidal agent, taking into account the physiological state.