Understanding What Advantage II Does for Cats
Advantage II for Cats is a highly effective, veterinarian-recommended flea treatment designed to provide comprehensive protection against flea infestations. Whether you have an indoor or outdoor feline, this monthly topical solution is recognized for its ease of use and powerful results.
Key Benefits of Advantage II
- Fast-acting formula: Begins killing fleas within 12 hours of application.
- Kills multiple flea stages: Eliminates adult fleas, flea larvae, and flea eggs.
- Topical application: Easy-to-apply formula that requires no pills or flea collars.
- Long-lasting protection: One application provides up to 30 days of flea control.
- Waterproof: Remains effective even after exposure to water, once dried for 24 hours.
- Fragrance-free: Gentle on sensitive cats and has no added scents.
How Does Advantage II Work?
Advantage II works by killing fleas at every stage of their life cycle. Its primary active ingredients,
Imidacloprid (9.10%) and
Pyriproxyfen (0.46%), work together to disrupt the flea's nervous system and prevent reproduction:
- Imidacloprid: A neurotoxin that causes paralysis and death in adult fleas by affecting their central nervous system.
- Pyriproxyfen: An insect growth regulator that prevents eggs from developing into adult fleas, effectively breaking the life cycle.
Fleas don't have to bite the cat to be affected—Advantage II works through contact. This provides an immediate and proactive defense against fleas, reducing the chances of allergic reactions, skin conditions, and parasite transmission in cats.
Application Guidelines
Applying Advantage II is straightforward and designed for at-home use:
- Hold applicator tube upright and remove the cap.
- Flip the cap and use the back end to break the seal, then discard the cap.
- Part the hair at the base of the skull until skin is visible.
- Squeeze the tube to apply the entire contents directly onto the skin.
Avoid ingestion or contact with the eyes. To minimize licking, apply at the base of the skull. If ingestion occurs, salivation may occur temporarily.
Weight Classes and Age Suitability
Advantage II is available in formulations based on the cat’s weight:
- 2–5 lbs (Turquoise): For small kittens and cats
- 5–9 lbs (Orange): For medium cats
- Over 9 lbs (Purple): For large cats
It is suitable for cats and kittens aged 8 weeks or older, meeting the minimum weight requirements.
Re-treatment Recommendations
Typically, Advantage II is applied monthly. However, in cases of severe flea infestations, earlier retreatment may be necessary:
- Kittens: Not more than once every 14 days
- Adult Cats: Not more than once every 7 days
Once the infestation is controlled, return to standard monthly treatments.
Why Use Advantage II?
Fleas are not only irritating but also pose serious health risks. Advantage II helps prevent:
- Flea allergy dermatitis
- Tapeworm transmission
- Flea bite anemia
This makes it an essential product for maintaining your cat’s overall health.
Safety and Storage
Advantage II is intended for external use only. Follow these precautions:
- Keep away from the eyes, mouth, and broken skin.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
- Store in a cool, dry location, away from children and other pets.
Monitor your cat after application for any signs of skin irritation or digestive upset. If your cat is elderly, pregnant, or on medication, consult a vet before use.
In Summary
Advantage II for Cats offers an effective, user-friendly solution to flea problems. With its fast-acting, long-lasting, and waterproof properties, it simplifies flea control without the use of pills or collars. Ideal for pet owners seeking a trusted and veterinarian-endorsed treatment, Advantage II helps ensure the ongoing well-being and comfort of your cat.