How long should flea drops remain on a cat? - briefly
Flea spot‑on treatment should stay on the cat’s skin until it fully dries, typically a few minutes, and should not be rinsed off for at least 24 hours. This allows the medication to spread through the oil layer and provide effective protection.
How long should flea drops remain on a cat? - in detail
Flea spot‑on treatments are applied directly to the cat’s skin, usually at the base of the neck or between the shoulder blades. The medication must stay in contact with the skin to spread through the animal’s oil glands and reach the bloodstream, where it kills fleas and prevents new infestations.
- After application, the product should not be washed off for at least 24 hours. This period allows the active ingredients to be fully absorbed.
- Grooming, licking, or rubbing should be minimized during the first 12 hours to prevent removal of the dose.
- If the cat is bathed, shaves, or swims, wait a minimum of 48 hours before exposing the animal to water. Some manufacturers extend this interval to 72 hours for certain formulations.
- Re‑application intervals are typically 30 days, but products containing newer isoxazoline compounds may allow a 60‑day schedule. Follow the label for the specific product used.
The duration that the drops remain on the cat’s coat is effectively permanent; the chemical stays embedded in the skin and hair until it is metabolized and expelled. The critical factor is the initial absorption window, after which the flea‑killing action continues without further contact. Compliance with the waiting periods and monthly re‑treatment ensures continuous protection.