Chemicals in Advantage for Cats

Advantage for Cats is a flea-killing treatment intended for cats and kittens. It protects cats from current infestations and prevents future spreading of fleas through once-a-month application. Its active ingredient is a chemical called imidacloprid. Imidacloprid plays an important role in removing pests from cats by effectively eliminating fleas by attacking their nervous system and causing eventual death.

Composition

Imidacloprid is a pesticide that quickly eliminates an infestation of fleas; Bayer manufactures this pesticide. It is a chlorinated nicotinoid compound. Imidacloprid comprises 9.1 percent of the ingredients in Advantage for Cats. The rest of the solution consists of inert ingredients. These inert ingredients are not pesticides; they usually consist of oils or waxes, mixed with the imidacloprid. They merely aid in the pesticide's activation and allow for easier application of the product.

Function

Imidacloprid destroys fleas by attacking its nervous system. Combined with an oil or wax, imidacloprid clings to the cat's hair follicles, where it is gradually released. Imidacloprid works to paralyze and then kill the flea. This pesticide kills adult fleas within an hour. It destroys 98 to 100 percent of the cat's fleas within 12 hours and can prevent any further flea infestation for approximately a month.

Use

Imidacloprid-based Advantage for Cats is a topical product used externally once a month. The cat should be dry and in good health before administering the product. The perfect product placement is where the cat will not be able to ingest it; the normal sport for placement is blow the neck and shoulders. The pesticide placed only in this spot and not anywhere else on the cat. The instructions warn the pet owner to give no baths within 24 hours of application; exposure to water will wash off the pesticide.

Warning

Imidacloprid is safe for use on cats and kittens as young as eight weeks, as well as pregnant and nursing cats; however, cats with an illness are not to be exposed to the product. Watch the animal after exposure to ensure he does not develop an allergic reaction. Regarding cats, imidacloprid is not effective upon anything but fleas and does not destroy ticks. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the chemical and properly dispose of all packaging.

Benefits

Imidacloprid helps keep pest infestations down and offers extra protection because additional fleas die as they encounter a treated cat. Its use allows your cat to have a more comfortable life and protects its skin since it eliminates the need for excessive scratching. It also saves money by eradicating the need to purchase flea collars, cat shampoos, flea powders and sprays.