When do flea drops for dogs start working? - briefly
Flea drops for dogs typically begin working within 12-24 hours after application. The active ingredients quickly spread across the dog's skin and coat, providing immediate protection against fleas.
When do flea drops for dogs start working? - in detail
Flea drops, also known as spot-on treatments, are a popular and effective method of controlling fleas on dogs. The speed at which these drops begin to work can vary depending on several factors, including the specific product used, the severity of the infestation, and individual dog characteristics.
Most flea drops start working within 24 hours of application. However, it's important to note that the full effect may not be immediate. The active ingredients in these treatments typically work by disrupting the flea's nervous system or inhibiting their ability to reproduce. As a result, adult fleas may not die immediately but will instead become disoriented and less able to feed or lay eggs.
For instance, products containing fipronil often start killing fleas within 24 hours but can take up to 48 hours for full effectiveness. On the other hand, products like selamectin (Revolution) may begin working more quickly, providing significant control within 6-12 hours and killing most adult fleas within 36 hours.
It's also crucial to understand that while these treatments effectively kill adult fleas, they may not immediately address the problem of eggs and larvae. Flea eggs can hatch into larvae even after the adults have been eliminated, which is why it's essential to use a product that also targets immature stages of the flea life cycle. Some products, such as those containing imidacloprid and moxidectin (Advantage Multi), provide both immediate and residual control by killing adult fleas and preventing eggs from hatching.
In addition to the active ingredients, the effectiveness of flea drops can be influenced by the dog's size, coat length, and overall health. Larger dogs or those with thick coats may require a higher dose or more frequent applications to achieve the same level of control as smaller or short-haired dogs.
In summary, while most flea drops for dogs start working within 24 hours, the full effect can take up to 48 hours depending on the specific product and individual factors. For optimal results, it's essential to choose a product that targets both adult fleas and their eggs and to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding application frequency and dosage.