Where do fleas go after treatment with drops on a cat? - briefly
After applying topical flea treatment drops on a cat, fleas typically die within 24 to 48 hours. The active ingredients in the drops either kill the fleas directly or repel them, causing them to leave the cat's body.
Where do fleas go after treatment with drops on a cat? - in detail
When topical flea treatments, often in the form of drops, are applied to cats, the effectiveness of these treatments is crucial in understanding the fate of fleas. These treatments typically contain active ingredients such as fipronil, imidacloprid, or selamectin, which are designed to kill adult fleas and prevent the development of new fleas.
Upon application, the active ingredients in the drops spread throughout the cat's skin and fur, creating a barrier that is lethal to fleas. When a flea comes into contact with the treated area, it ingests the active ingredient either by biting the cat or through direct contact with the treated skin. This ingestion leads to the flea's nervous system being disrupted, ultimately resulting in its death.
The timeline for flea elimination varies depending on the specific product used. Generally, the drops start working within a few hours, and most fleas will be killed within 24 to 48 hours. However, it is important to note that the drops do not immediately kill all fleas on the cat. Some fleas may survive the initial application and continue to feed on the cat, although they will eventually succumb to the treatment.
In addition to killing adult fleas, many of these topical treatments also have an insect growth regulator (IGR) component. IGRs interfere with the development of flea eggs and larvae, preventing them from maturing into adult fleas. This dual action helps to break the flea life cycle, reducing the likelihood of re-infestation.
It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and dosage to ensure the treatment's effectiveness. Proper application involves placing the drops at specific points on the cat's skin, usually between the shoulder blades or at the base of the skull, where the cat cannot lick the treatment off. This ensures that the active ingredients remain in place and continue to provide protection.
Regular use of these topical treatments, as recommended by a veterinarian, is crucial for maintaining flea control. Fleas can quickly reinfest a cat, especially if the environment is not treated simultaneously. Therefore, it is advisable to use flea treatments in conjunction with environmental control measures, such as vacuuming, washing bedding, and using flea sprays or powders in the home.
In summary, after treatment with drops, fleas on a cat are killed through the action of active ingredients that disrupt their nervous systems. The treatment also helps to prevent the development of new fleas, breaking the life cycle and reducing the risk of re-infestation. Proper application and regular use, along with environmental control, are vital for effective flea management.