How many drops should be placed on a cat's neck for fleas? - briefly
For a typical adult cat, apply one to two drops of a veterinarian‑approved spot‑on flea medication to the base of the skull. Dosage may differ according to the cat’s weight, so follow the product’s label instructions.
How many drops should be placed on a cat's neck for fleas? - in detail
Veterinary guidelines specify that the dosage of topical flea medication for a cat is determined by the animal’s weight and the concentration of the product. Most manufacturers provide a dosing chart that matches weight ranges to a specific number of drops to apply to the skin at the base of the skull, just behind the ears.
- Weight‑based dosing:
- Up to 2 kg (4.4 lb): 1–2 drops
- 2–4 kg (4.4–8.8 lb): 2–3 drops
- 4–6 kg (8.8–13.2 lb): 3–4 drops
- Over 6 kg (13.2 lb): 4–5 drops
The exact count may vary between brands because of differing active‑ingredient concentrations (e.g., fipronil, imidacloprid, selamectin). Always refer to the product label for the precise recommendation.
Application steps
- Part the fur at the nape of the neck to expose the skin.
- Place the measured number of drops directly onto the skin, not on the fur.
- Allow the liquid to dry for a few minutes before the cat contacts bedding or other animals.
Safety considerations
- Do not exceed the recommended dose; overdose can cause skin irritation, neurological signs, or systemic toxicity.
- Avoid using the same product on dogs and cats simultaneously, as some formulations are species‑specific.
- Monitor the cat for adverse reactions (e.g., excessive drooling, vomiting, lethargy) for 24 hours after treatment.
Follow‑up
Reapply the medication according to the label interval, typically every 30 days, to maintain continuous flea control. If the cat is pregnant, nursing, or has a medical condition, consult a veterinarian before initiating treatment.