Flea and Tick Collars

By PetMD Editorial on Mar. 27, 2015

What It Is

Flea collars are placed around the neck of a pet and left in place for long term flea and tick control.

Active Ingredients

Varies depending on the product. Examples are: amitraz, deltamethrin, flumethrin, and imidacloprid, tetrachlorvinphos.

How it Works

Flea and tick collars are neurotoxic to insects. Some work by emitting a gas that repels fleas and parasites in the neck region, while others emit ingredients that are absorbed and spread through the skin, similar to how spot-ons work.

How to Administer

The collar is placed around the neck of the pet. Some owners also place flea collars in their vacuum bag for added environmental control.

How Often to Administer

Check the label. Varies from one to up to eight months.

Precautions

Can cause skin and eye irritation to pet or to owners. Can cause local irritation to the skin around the neck. May pose an entanglement risk for outdoor cats. Children and owners who touch the collars may be exposed to the ingredients. Tetrachlorvinphos can be toxic to people. Some cats may have severe reactions to pyrethrin/pyrethroid-containing products. Signs of toxicity include salivation, tremors, seizures, vomiting, anorexia, and even death.

Product Examples

Adams, Only Natural Pet, Preventic, Seresto

Image: Volga / via Shutterstock


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