Our Community Picks
Best Overall:Advantage Spot-On Flea Treatment For Cats $16.98
Runner-Up:Capstar Flea Oral Treatment $39.99
Also Great:Advantage Flea and Tick Shampoo $14.48
Note:All prices and deals listed are accurate as of the time of publishing. Please check the provided links for the most current pricing.
Best Topical Flea Treatment Solutions
This post may includeaffiliate links.
Best Oral Cat Flea Prevention
Tip:Consider using oral medications for cats to avoid spreading pesticide liquid in your house, especially if children are around. Pill poppers can help you deal with a wary cat.
Active Ingredient:Nitenpyram| Type:Tablet| Active For:One day| Prescription Required:No| Cat Weight:2-25 poundsCapstar is a quick-acting flea control medication that contains Nytenpyram as its active ingredient. It starts working within 30 minutes of intake and kills adult fleas efficiently. You can give it to your cat once daily as necessary. It comes in packets of 6 or 12 and doesn’t require a prescription.There are two ways to give this medicine to your cat- directly in the mouth or hidden in food. Although you can crush the tablet, it may taste bitter, so it works better when given whole.Note:Capstar kills adult fleas quickly, but it needs to be used for several days as the larvae hatch.What We Like:• Fleas start falling off within an hour• Available over the counterWhat We Don’t Like:• Only effective on adult fleas• Requires repeated administration
Active ingredient:Spinosad|Type:Tablet| Active For:4 weeks |Prescription Required:Yes |Cat Weight:4.1-6 pounds, 6.1-12 pounds, 12.1-24 poundsWhen multiple pets are in the house, you have to make sure that all of them are up-to-date with their parasite prevention regimen. Fleas can quickly spread from one pet to another, with dogs usually catching them from cats. If left untreated, fleas can wreak havoc in your home.Comfortis Chewable Tablets are suitable for dogs and cats aged 14 weeks or older. They work quickly and can eliminate fleas less than an hour after consumption. Administer the tablets once a month alongside food for optimal effectiveness.What We Like:• An excellent option for multiple pet households• Small tablet sizeWhat We Don’t Like:• Only effective against fleas• Not suitable for smaller kittens (under 14 weeks)• Strong chemical odor
Best Flea and Tick PreventionFlea and tick medications are usually used together, as a cat at risk for fleas is very likely at risk for ticks. Ticks are particularly dangerous as they can attach themselves to humans and spread diseases. While they are larger and easier to spot, they often hide under the cat’s fur, making it difficult to detect them early on before they become engorged with blood.
Best Flea and Tick Prevention
Flea and tick medications are usually used together, as a cat at risk for fleas is very likely at risk for ticks. Ticks are particularly dangerous as they can attach themselves to humans and spread diseases. While they are larger and easier to spot, they often hide under the cat’s fur, making it difficult to detect them early on before they become engorged with blood.
Active ingredient:Fluralaner|Type:Spot-on|Active For:12 weeks|Prescription Required:Yes |Cat Weight:2.6-6.2 pounds, 6.2-13.8 pounds, 13.8+ poundsBravecto is a widely recognized and trusted product that kills and prevents fleas and effectively combats ticks. It is proven to eliminate all fleas on the cat within eight hours of application and all ticks within twelve hours.The “twist and use” design eliminates the need to fumble with removing the cap, making it one of the simplest spot-on treatments to administer, particularly for cats who aren’t fond of them.What makes Bravecto so attractive is that it provides an astonishing three months of flea prevention. This is perfect for pet parents who struggle to keep up with monthly applications. It is available in a variety of sizes and can be purchased as either a one or two-pack.What We Like:• 12-week protection against fleas• Two months of protection against ticksWhat We Don’t Like:• Not suitable for cats less than six months old
Active ingredient:Fipronil and (S)methoprene|Type:Spot-on |Active For:4 weeks |Prescription Required:No|Cat Weight:One sizeFrontline Plus Flea and Tick Spot Treatment is a preventive measure against fleas and a killer of ticks and chewing lice. It is effective against both adult fleas and flea eggs, which helps to prevent re-infestation. This spot-on treatment is suitable for kittens as young as 8 weeks old and weighing at least 1.5 pounds. Even indoor cats can get fleas and ticks, so it is wise to keep their prevention up to date.The active ingredients in this spot-on treatment disrupt the flea life cycle, preventing new infestations from developing. A single application protects cats against fleas and ticks for a whole month.What We Like:• Easy application• Dual protection against both ticks and fleas• Safe for those kittens who are at least eight weeks old• Available in 3, 6, 8 and 12 packWhat We Don’t Like:• No worm prevention• Skin irritation is a possible side effect
Best Flea Treatment for Kittens Under 12 Weeks
If you find fleas on a very young kitten, it’s best to treat their mother and siblings simultaneously to avoid any chances of re-infestation. Additionally, kittens with fleas usually have a worm burden, so giving them a dewormer is recommended.
Active ingredient:Pyrethrins, Piperonyl Butoxide |Type:Shampoo |Active For:1 week |Prescription Required:No|Cat Weight:1.5+ poundsAdvantage Flea and Tick Shampoo unscented formula produces a good lather and can be used on kittens that are twelve weeks or older. If you have a sensitive kitty who doesn’t respond well to tablets or spot-on treatments, this shampoo may be the perfect solution.Bear in mind that using this shampoo alone won’t completely eradicate fleas and ticks from your environment. You must treat your home and yard to eliminate these parasites effectively.Note:When bathing a younger kitten, remember they have low body fat levels and can get cold quickly. So, keep the bath brief and dry them thoroughly with a towel.What We Like:• Effective alternative to the traditional tablets or spot-on treatmentWhat We Don’t Like:• Contains Pyrethrin, which is highly toxic to cats if ingested• Must be used no more than once every 7 days• Most cats dislike taking baths
Active ingredient:Selamectin|Type:Spot-on |Active For:1 month|Prescription Required:No |Cat Weight:5.1-15 pounds, 15.1-22 poundsRevolt Topical Solution for Cats is a highly effective flea treatment that contains Selamectin. This solution not only treats fleas but also prevents heartworms and treats ear mites, hookworms, and roundworms.Like other spot-on treatments, you must apply Revolt to the skin without rubbing. To ensure its effectiveness, avoid bathing your pet for at least 24 hours after using the product. This treatment not only kills fleas but also prevents the hatching of eggs, providing more comprehensive control.What We Like:• Broad spectrum• Available in several sizesWhat We Don’t Like:• Prescription required• Costly
Many flea treatments available in the market, such as flea bombs and natural flea control products sold without a prescription, are often ineffective. We know how frustrating it can be to spend all that money on flea products only to find out they don’t work. The best way to avoid this is never to use a treatment your vet hasn’t approved.
Active Ingredient:Fluralaner, Moxidectin|Type:Spot-on|Active For:2 months|Prescription Required:Yes|Cat Weight:2.6-6.2 pounds, 6.2-13.8 pounds, 13.9-27.5 poundsBravecto Plus Topical Solution treats fleas and is an excellent option for coping with parasites like intestinal worms and heartworms. However, it’s not an over-the-counter medication, so you’ll need to get a prescription from your veterinarian.The medication comes in three sizes, and you can easily apply it using a pipette on the skin between your cat’s shoulder blades. Most cats don’t mind it, but if your kitty has difficulties, you can always ask your vet for help.Note:Suitable for cats older than six monthsWhat We Like:• Broad spectrum• Vet-approved• Two months of flea and tick preventionWhat We Don’t Like:• Not suitable for cats younger than six months• Prescription required
How To Determine if Your Cat Has FleasIdentifying fleas on cats can be quite tricky, as cats tend to groom themselves and ingest any fleas they come across. However, the most common indication that a cat has fleas isincreased itchiness, particularly around therumpandflanks.You may notice your catscratching,chewing, andlicking themselvesmore frequently. You may also see somebald patches,sparse fur, andscabson their skin.To verify the presence of fleas, it’s a good idea to use a flea comb to look for flea eggs, adult fleas, or flea dirt. Remember: Even if you don’t notice any signs of fleas, you should never rule them out. If unsure, consult with your vet.FAQWhat is the fastest way to get rid of fleas on a cat?One effective way to eliminate fleas is to use a product a veterinarian recommends, apply it to all dogs and cats in your home, and use a flea spray specifically designed for household use. Some oral flea treatments start working in as little as 30 minutes.Which is the better flea treatment, Frontline or Advantage, for fleas on cats?These products contain different active ingredients, though both work similarly and should have comparable efficacy. In our experience, fleas are less likely to resist the Imidacloprid in Advantage.How will a vet treat a cat with fleas?Your veterinarian will provide a flea treatment for your cat, which may come as a spot-on medicine, collar, or tablet. They will also advise you on how to treat your home and any other pets. Since fleas can carry tapeworms, your vet will ensure that your cat’s wormer is up to date.Can I give my kitten a flea treatment for cats?Flea burdens in kittens can lead to anemia from blood loss, skin infections, and a failure to gain weight—it is never something we would want to ignore. However, you must ensure your kitten is old and heavy enough for the product used.Do I need a prescription to get the best flea treatment for cats?The more broad-acting products will require Prescription, yes. However, there are manynon-prescription options for treating fleasalone, some of which are listed above.
How To Determine if Your Cat Has Fleas
Identifying fleas on cats can be quite tricky, as cats tend to groom themselves and ingest any fleas they come across. However, the most common indication that a cat has fleas isincreased itchiness, particularly around therumpandflanks.
You may notice your catscratching,chewing, andlicking themselvesmore frequently. You may also see somebald patches,sparse fur, andscabson their skin.
To verify the presence of fleas, it’s a good idea to use a flea comb to look for flea eggs, adult fleas, or flea dirt. Remember: Even if you don’t notice any signs of fleas, you should never rule them out. If unsure, consult with your vet.
FAQ
What is the fastest way to get rid of fleas on a cat?
One effective way to eliminate fleas is to use a product a veterinarian recommends, apply it to all dogs and cats in your home, and use a flea spray specifically designed for household use. Some oral flea treatments start working in as little as 30 minutes.
Which is the better flea treatment, Frontline or Advantage, for fleas on cats?
These products contain different active ingredients, though both work similarly and should have comparable efficacy. In our experience, fleas are less likely to resist the Imidacloprid in Advantage.
How will a vet treat a cat with fleas?
Your veterinarian will provide a flea treatment for your cat, which may come as a spot-on medicine, collar, or tablet. They will also advise you on how to treat your home and any other pets. Since fleas can carry tapeworms, your vet will ensure that your cat’s wormer is up to date.
Can I give my kitten a flea treatment for cats?
Flea burdens in kittens can lead to anemia from blood loss, skin infections, and a failure to gain weight—it is never something we would want to ignore. However, you must ensure your kitten is old and heavy enough for the product used.
Do I need a prescription to get the best flea treatment for cats?
The more broad-acting products will require Prescription, yes. However, there are manynon-prescription options for treating fleasalone, some of which are listed above.
Modal closeAdd New ImageModal closeAdd Your Photo To This ListPlease use high-res photos without watermarksOoops! Your image is too large, maximum file size is 8 MB.Not your original work?Add sourcePublish
Modal close
Add New ImageModal closeAdd Your Photo To This ListPlease use high-res photos without watermarksOoops! Your image is too large, maximum file size is 8 MB.Not your original work?Add sourcePublish
Modal closeAdd Your Photo To This ListPlease use high-res photos without watermarksOoops! Your image is too large, maximum file size is 8 MB.Not your original work?Add sourcePublish
Add Your Photo To This ListPlease use high-res photos without watermarksOoops! Your image is too large, maximum file size is 8 MB.
Add Your Photo To This List
Please use high-res photos without watermarks
Ooops! Your image is too large, maximum file size is 8 MB.
Not your original work?Add source
Modal closeModal closeOoops! Your image is too large, maximum file size is 8 MB.UploadUploadError occurred when generating embed. Please check link and try again.TwitterRender conversationUse html versionGenerate not embedded versionAdd watermarkInstagramShow Image OnlyHide CaptionCropAdd watermarkFacebookShow Image OnlyAdd watermarkChangeSourceTitleUpdateAdd Image
Modal closeOoops! Your image is too large, maximum file size is 8 MB.UploadUploadError occurred when generating embed. Please check link and try again.TwitterRender conversationUse html versionGenerate not embedded versionAdd watermarkInstagramShow Image OnlyHide CaptionCropAdd watermarkFacebookShow Image OnlyAdd watermarkChangeSourceTitleUpdateAdd Image
Upload
UploadError occurred when generating embed. Please check link and try again.TwitterRender conversationUse html versionGenerate not embedded versionAdd watermarkInstagramShow Image OnlyHide CaptionCropAdd watermarkFacebookShow Image OnlyAdd watermark
Error occurred when generating embed. Please check link and try again.
TwitterRender conversationUse html versionGenerate not embedded versionAdd watermark
InstagramShow Image OnlyHide CaptionCropAdd watermark
FacebookShow Image OnlyAdd watermark
ChangeSourceTitle
Reviews
