How long do Inspector flea drops work for dogs? - briefly
Inspector flea drops provide continuous protection for approximately 30 days after application. Re‑application is recommended at monthly intervals to maintain efficacy.
How long do Inspector flea drops work for dogs? - in detail
Inspector flea drops provide systemic protection against adult fleas and certain stages of flea development for a defined period after application. The active ingredient, spinosad, is absorbed through the skin and circulates in the bloodstream, killing fleas that bite the dog within minutes.
The product is labeled to remain effective for approximately 30 days when administered at the recommended dosage based on the animal’s weight. This one‑month interval is consistent across the standard formulation and the veterinarian‑only version, which contains a higher concentration for larger dogs.
Factors that can shorten or extend the protection window include:
- Bathing or swimming – excessive exposure to water or harsh shampoos may reduce the amount of spinosad absorbed, potentially decreasing efficacy before the 30‑day mark.
- Weight fluctuations – significant gain or loss after the initial dose may alter the dose‑to‑body‑mass ratio, leading to suboptimal coverage.
- Concurrent medications – drugs that induce liver enzymes can increase the metabolism of spinosad, shortening its active period.
- Health status – dogs with severe skin conditions that impede absorption may experience reduced effectiveness.
Onset of action is rapid; fleas begin to die within 30 minutes of contact with treated skin, and a noticeable decline in flea numbers is typically observed within 4–6 hours. To maintain continuous protection, re‑application should occur every 30 days, aligned with the date of the initial treatment.
If a dog is exposed to a heavy flea infestation shortly after treatment, additional environmental control measures—such as vacuuming, washing bedding, and using a flea‑preventive spray for the home—are recommended to complement the systemic product until the next dose.
In summary, the systemic flea drop delivers a month‑long shield against adult fleas, provided the dosage matches the dog’s weight and external factors that could diminish absorption are managed appropriately. Regular monthly re‑dosing ensures uninterrupted protection throughout the flea season.