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Kills Fleas | |||
Repels Fleas | |||
Kills Flea eggs and Larvae | |||
Kills Ticks | |||
Repels Ticks | |||
Kills and/or Repels Mosquitoes | |||
Prevents Heartworm | |||
Other Parasites Information | Treats, Prevents, and Controls Lice Infestations | Advantage XD kills lice, but does not treat any internal parasites like heartworms or intestinal worms. | Eliminates infestations with chewing lice, aids in the control of sarcoptic mange infestation |
Waterproof (shampooing once a week can reduce effectiveness) | Yes, Advantage XD is waterproof. Do not bathe your cat or allow them to get wet for at least 24 hours after applying Advantage® XD. Frequent shampooing can reduce effectiveness. See product label for more information. | ||
Safe for pregnant or nursing Pets | Consult your veterinarian | Consult your veterinarian for pregnant or nursing cats. | |
How long does it take to work | Kills fleas in 12 hours | 30 minutes to 4 hours. | Kills Fleas within 12 hours and Ticks within 48 hours |
Taste | Applied to Skin | Not applicable (topical treatment). | Applied to Skin |
Active Ingredient(s) | Imidacloprid/Pyriproxyfen | Spinetoram | Fipronil/(S)-Methoprene |
RX Required | |||
Dosage | Apply one applicator every 2 months. | Monthly | |
Usage | |||
Video | Coming soon | Coming soon | Coming soon |
Vet Review |
The non-greasy, non-odor formulation is a definite plus when used on sensitive patients, especially cats.I find that advantage kills fleas and larvae more quickly than some of the other products out there, often resulting in quicker relief of flea allergy dermatitis symptoms in dogs and cats. Overall I have found it quite safe and have seen the fewest topical or rare systemic reactions in my practice over the years. The main disadvantage I have found is that in heavy flea infestations that the efficacy may wear off in less than one month, necessitating some vets to recommend more frequent off label use of this product every few weeks. It also does not control ticks as well on dogs and cats. I find that advantage works most effectively when combined with good environmental flea control at home. |
The fast-acting nature of Advantage XD is one of its standout features, as it starts killing fleas within 30 minutes to 4 hours, providing rapid relief for cats. Its long-lasting formula is another major benefit, offering protection for up to two months per application, which is twice the duration of many other flea treatments. The active ingredient, spinetoram, is derived from natural soil microbes, making it a preferred option for veterinarians concerned about using harsh chemicals on sensitive pets. However, as with any topical treatment, some cats may experience mild skin reactions like irritation or hair loss at the application site. Despite this, Advantage XD remains a top choice for its effectiveness and ease of use, though in cases of severe infestations, veterinarians may recommend additional environmental flea control measures. |
I find that the effective combination of an ingredient like fipronil, along with the insect growth regulator methoprene, provides the best spectrum of activity and protection against all stages of the flea life cycle from egg through larval stage on to adult. Because of these two main ingredients and their method of action, I find that clients don't have to treat the environment as much. I find that this product tends to be safer in smaller breed animals when compared to its competition. I find its tick efficacy quite good. The fact that it is waterproof also allows clients, whose pets swim frequently, to confidently use this product during the swimming months. I also find that this product works the longest for fleas, while some of the competitive products have to be reapplied before the end of the month. The lack of label efficacy against mosquitoes and flies, as well as the fact that this product does not repel fleas or ticks are the two main disadvantages. As with any insecticidal products, I find that every pet is an individual, in terms of which of the products works best on them. When I am dealing with more of a flea issue in a patient, this is the product I will likely reach for first. |