Flea and Tick Collars
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