What is the flea injection? - briefly
The flea injection is an injectable veterinary formulation that introduces a systemic insecticide into the animal’s bloodstream. Fleas that bite the treated pet ingest the toxin and are killed, delivering rapid and sustained flea control.
What is the flea injection? - in detail
The flea injection is a veterinary product designed to eliminate fleas on dogs and cats through a single subcutaneous dose. It contains an insecticidal compound—commonly a neonicotinoid such as imidacloprid or a macrocyclic lactone like selamectin—dissolved in a sterile carrier solution. Once administered, the active ingredient spreads systemically via the bloodstream, reaching the skin’s surface where it is ingested by feeding fleas. The compound binds to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the insect nervous system, causing paralysis and death within minutes.
Administration guidelines require a weight‑based dosage, typically 0.1 ml per kilogram of body weight. The injection is given in the scruff of the neck or the interscapular region, using a sterile needle. The effect begins within 24 hours and provides protection for up to 30 days, depending on the formulation. Re‑treatment intervals should follow the manufacturer’s schedule to maintain continuous coverage.
Key considerations include:
- Safety profile: Generally well‑tolerated; mild local reactions (redness, swelling) may occur. Rare systemic effects include vomiting, lethargy, or allergic responses.
- Contraindications: Animals with known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient, pregnant or lactating females, and those younger than the minimum approved age should not receive the injection.
- Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place, protected from light. Do not freeze; discard any vial that shows discoloration or particulate matter.
- Efficacy: Clinical studies report >95 % reduction in flea counts after a single dose, with sustained efficacy throughout the dosing interval.
Veterinarians must verify the animal’s weight, health status, and any concurrent medications before injection. Proper record‑keeping of administration dates ensures timely re‑treatment and helps monitor potential adverse events.