How do flea drops work for a cat? - briefly
Flea spot‑on medication is applied to the cat’s skin, where the active ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream and spread throughout the body, killing fleas that bite. The compounds also disrupt the flea life cycle, preventing development of eggs and larvae.
How do flea drops work for a cat? - in detail
Flea spot‑on treatments for cats contain a small amount of an insecticidal or insect growth‑regulating compound dissolved in a carrier liquid. When the liquid is applied to the skin at the base of the neck, the carrier spreads across the surface, allowing the active ingredient to penetrate the stratum corneum. Within minutes the substance enters the cat’s bloodstream and is distributed through the skin’s sebaceous secretions.
Once in the circulatory system, the chemical reaches any feeding flea on the animal’s body. Contact with the insecticide disrupts the flea’s nervous system, causing rapid paralysis and death. Compounds that act as growth regulators interfere with the development of eggs and larvae, preventing the emergence of new adult fleas from the environment.
Key factors that determine effectiveness:
- Active ingredient type – pyrethrins, neonicotinoids, pyriproxyfen, or insect growth regulators each target different stages of the flea life cycle.
- Dosage per kilogram – manufacturers formulate the concentration to match the cat’s weight range, ensuring sufficient systemic exposure without toxicity.
- Absorption rate – the carrier’s composition (often a mixture of alcohol, propylene glycol, and oils) influences how quickly the drug enters the bloodstream.
- Frequency of application – most products retain therapeutic levels for 30 days; re‑application is required to maintain protection.
- Environmental conditions – high humidity and temperature can affect the flea’s susceptibility to the chemical.
Application procedure:
- Separate the cat from other animals and keep it calm.
- Part the fur at the nape of the neck, exposing the skin.
- Squeeze the prescribed number of drops onto the skin, avoiding the eyes and mouth.
- Allow the cat to dry naturally; prevent grooming for at least five minutes to ensure absorption.
- Record the date and dosage for future reference.
Safety considerations include using only products labeled for feline use, verifying the cat’s weight category, and avoiding concurrent administration of other systemic insecticides. Adverse reactions—such as localized irritation or neurological signs—are rare when instructions are followed precisely.
Overall, the mechanism relies on transdermal absorption, systemic distribution, and rapid action against adult fleas, complemented by interruption of egg and larval development to break the infestation cycle.