Frontline side effects are adverse reactions associated with wrongful administration and overdose in pets. Frontline is a medication used to prevent and control parasite infections in cats. Felines are often susceptible to flea and tick infections. Since their skin is hypersensitive to flea saliva, they also develop dermatitis and excessive itching. Apart from dermatitis, parasites like fleas and ticks work as carriers of various diseases and transmit them to pets through bites. In order to protect cats from fleas and ticks, Frontline is used as a monthly topical treatment.
Frontline Plus for Cats
Frontline contains the active ingredients fipronil and s-methoprene. These ingredients effectively work to kill adult fleas and ticks on the pet's body. In addition, the insect growth inhibitor s-methoprene kills flea eggs and larvae and thus disrupts the life cycle of ticks and fleas. Since it provides month-long protection from parasites, it's recommended for use in pets living in neighborhoods where flea infections are common.
Dosage and Administration of Frontline Plus for Cats
Pet owners should read and follow package instructions before administration of any topical solution or anti-parasite medication. This topical solution is safe for use in kittens over 8 weeks of age. It should be applied to the skin between the shoulder blades in a single spot and left to dry. Cats shouldn't be allowed to lick the product off and it should not come in contact with the pet's eyes or mouth. Although Frontline isn't a prescription product, it should be used and stored with caution to prevent accidental ingestion.
Active Ingredient Fipronil
Fipronil is an anti-parasite ingredient that interacts with the nervous system of parasites and causes death. It isn't absorbed by the cat's body and is stored in the sebaceous or oil glands of the skin. Although fipronil is safe for use if administered according to the instructions, it can cause side effects in cats. The ingredient is also unsafe for use in geriatric cats, pregnant cats and kittens less than 8 weeks of age.
Frontline Side Effects
Since the active ingredient fipronil works as a pesticide, it's important to avoid using the treatment along with other pesticides. Pets may experience redness or irritation at the site of application. Although this sensation should subside, persistent irritation warrants a vet check. Since it leads to certain drug interactions, it's also important to discuss with the vet if Frontline is suited to individual pets. Other common side effects include allergic reactions to the product, in pets hypersensitive to the ingredients. If the cat develops rash, swelling or hives associated with allergic reactions, it's important to seek prompt vet care.
Precautions:
- Overdose may cause certain reactions and pets require emergency care
- The product is not safe for use in sick or debilitated pets
- Care takers should exert caution during application of the medication to avoid contact with skin or eyes
- The product should be stored or discarded appropriately and kept away from children and pets to avoid accidental toxicity
Although products such as Frontline work effectively as monthly preventive treatments, it's best to take other precautionary measures as long term solutions for tick or flea infestations. Houses should be disinfected periodically and carpets should be steam cleaned and vacuumed to kill flea larvae and eggs. Cats should also be prevented from roaming outdoors, as ticks and fleas mostly latch onto the body outside the home.