What are flea drops used for? - briefly
Flea drops are topical medications applied to a pet’s skin to eliminate existing fleas and prevent new infestations. They deliver insecticidal agents that spread across the animal’s coat, providing continuous protection for weeks.
What are flea drops used for? - in detail
Flea drops are topical medications applied to a pet’s skin, typically along the back near the base of the neck. Their primary function is to eliminate adult fleas and prevent new infestations by delivering an insecticide that spreads across the animal’s body through the natural oils in the skin.
The active ingredients work in several ways:
- Neurotoxic agents (e.g., imidacloprid, fipronil) disrupt the flea’s nervous system, causing rapid death.
- Growth regulators (e.g., methoprene) interfere with the development of eggs and larvae, breaking the life cycle.
- Repellents (e.g., pyriproxyfen) deter adult fleas from attaching to the host.
Beyond killing existing fleas, the drops provide ongoing protection for weeks, reducing the risk of secondary problems such as:
- Dermatitis caused by flea bites.
- Allergic reactions in sensitive animals.
- Transmission of diseases (e.g., tapeworms, Bartonella) that fleas can carry.
Correct application is essential. The product is placed directly onto the skin, not merely on the fur, to ensure absorption. Dosage is calibrated by the animal’s weight; using an incorrect amount can lead to under‑treatment or toxicity.
In summary, flea drops serve to eradicate current flea populations on the pet, inhibit the development of future generations, and safeguard the animal’s health by preventing bite‑related complications and disease transmission.