Activyl Protector Band for Dogs vs. Activyl Tick Plus Comparison

Activyl Protector Band for Dogs

Learn More

Activyl Tick Plus

Learn More

Revolution

Learn More

Kills Fleas

Repels Fleas

Kills Flea eggs and Larvae

Prevents development

Kills Ticks

Repels Ticks

Kills and/or Repels Mosquitoes

Prevents Heartworm

Other Parasites Information

Kills all blood-feeding stages of three tick species, including the American dog tick, Brown dog tick, and the Deer tick - which is known to carry Lyme disease.

Controls ear mites, roundworms and hookworms.

Waterproof (shampooing once a week can reduce effectiveness)

Safe for pregnant or nursing Pets

How long does it take to work

Long-lasting protection against ticks & fleas for up to 6 months

Reapply every 30 days.

See a greater than 90% control of your flea infestation during the first month but because adult fleas will emerge from cocoons in your environment, you may see a few fleas for several months until the flea population is destroyed.

Taste

N/A

Applied to skin

Applied to Skin

Active Ingredient(s)

Deltamethrin

Indoxacarb, Permethrin

Selamectin

RX Required

Dosage

Usage

Video

Coming soon

Vet Review

Currently under review

When the Activyl product line came out several years ago, it was touted as a totally novel new product on the market that would not have the problems of emerging flea resistance to products that has believed to been increasing in recent years with the old standby products in some cases. It supposedly works through a unique process of bioactivation using only the flea enzymes in activating the main ingredient, indoxacarb, in killing fleas. Along with the permethrin ingredient for tick coverage and control, it would seem like this would be a first line or excellent choice for those looking for a novel and comprehensive flea/tick product for their dogs. And while it is also effective in preventing flea eggs and larvae from developing as well, and can be highly effective in today's war against fleas and ticks, I have seen occasional problems with this product, as reported by clients. While its deeper penetration in the fatty oils of the skin may be a benefit, and while the product is not reported to be absorbed systemically, I have seen occasional and severe side effects reported by animal guardians. As with most other topical products in this venue, this particular product can occasionally cause irritation and itching at the site of application, which while usually only transient for a day or two, in some pets the itching and allergic reaction has been noted to intensify, necessitating anti-itch medications for relief. Some clients have also reported an odd odor from the application site for a while, as well as an oily film, which may persist for a few days. While many clients do report this product highly effective when other competitor products may have failed them recently, these occasional reactions are important to note, especially in a very sensitive or geriatric animal, and/or one with a chronic medical condition. On very rare occasions, clients have reported digestive side effects, as well as rare neurological weakness, stiffness or even spasms. While the vast majority of clients are satisfied with this product's performance and reliability, the decision on using this stronger, newer way of flea and tick control, should be made after careful consideration of patient history, as well as discussion with the local veterinarian. I give this product an overall rating of a 4, with an ease of use of a 5, with a mid-rating safety level of 3.

This versatile topical product has the widest range of protection of both internal and external parasites. In both cats and dogs, all 3 stages of the flea life cycle are effectively controlled,in addition to ear mites. For dogs, there is also the wonderful treatment benefit of killing hidden scabies mites on the skin, which are so difficult for veterinarians to find on routine skin scrapings at our offices. In fact, when either I or veterinary dermatologists are presented with a very itchy dog, in addition to our allergy workups, we will often treat with this topical every few weeks to treat and rule out any hidden scabies mites contributing to the pet's itching. It is amazing how many dogs will respond to this treatment, leading me to believe that scabies mites are involved with a lot more itching problems in dogs than I first learned about in vet school. With the increased recognition and understanding of feline heartworm disease, this is often the first heartworm preventative that I will reach for in cats, especially given all of the other benefits above. While it is often effective for canine heartworm prevention as well, I have heard of rare lapses in protection, so I usually combine this topical in dogs with one of the oral heartworm prevention medications like Heartgard or Interceptor. The only disadvantage I have seen is the rare reaction on cats of mild digestive upset and temporary hair loss at the site of application. It also has the wonderful benefits of being water proof in only 2 hours after application, and in being approved for use in puppies as young as 6 weeks of age.

Our expert panel consists of licensed veterinarians and the knowledgeable staff of PetMed Express, Inc. d/b/a 1-800-PetMeds. Neither the Company nor any of its employees or consultants make any warranties, expressed or implied, or representations about the accuracy or completeness of the content or the content of any site or external sites. Likewise, no legal liability or responsibility is assumed for the accuracy or completeness of any information, or usefulness of products discussed. While every effort has been made to accurately represent the qualities and characteristics of each product, which for the most part were taken directly from the websites of the manufacturers, we are not responsible for any errors. The information presented is for educational purposes only and is intended to be a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise and professional judgment of your veterinarian. The information is NOT to be used for diagnosis or treatment of your pet. You should always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, allergic reactions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for your pet. It is not a substitute for a veterinary exam, and it does not replace the need for services provided by your veterinarian. Note: Any trademarks are the property of their respective companies.