What It Is:
Advantage® II is a topical flea prevention and treatment product for cats. It is applied once a month to the skin at the base of the neck and provides protection against fleas at all life stages. This includes adult fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae, making it an effective solution for both active infestations and long term prevention.
Advantage II is available without a prescription and is approved for use in cats and kittens eight weeks of age or older.
🐾 What It Treats and Prevents
Advantage II is designed to:
- Kill adult fleas within twelve hours
- Prevent flea eggs from developing into adults
- Control infestations by breaking the flea life cycle
- Provide month long protection with a single dose
- Reduce flea allergy dermatitis by removing the source of bites
Advantage II does not kill ticks, mites, or internal parasites, so it is often combined with other treatments when broader protection is needed.
🧪 Active Ingredients
Advantage II contains two main active ingredients:
- Imidacloprid — kills adult fleas by targeting their nervous system
- Pyriproxyfen — an insect growth regulator that stops flea eggs and larvae from maturing
These ingredients work together to kill existing fleas and prevent new ones from developing.
🐾 How to Use It
Application is simple:
- Remove one tube from the package
- Part the fur at the base of the neck between the shoulder blades
- Place the tip of the tube on the skin and squeeze out the entire contents
- Do not bathe your cat for twenty four hours after application
Repeat once every thirty days for continuous protection. Use year round in areas where fleas are active year round.
🔍 Safety and Precautions
Advantage II is generally safe and well tolerated when used as directed.
However, keep in mind:
- Use only the cat formula — the dog version is toxic to cats
- Do not allow cats to lick the application site until it is dry
- Do not use on kittens under eight weeks old
- Side effects are rare but may include mild skin irritation or hair loss at the application site
- Overdose can occur if multiple doses are applied or if combined with other flea products not approved for concurrent use
If your cat experiences excessive drooling, vomiting, or lethargy after application, contact your vet.
💡 Cat Owner Note
If fleas are driving you and your cat up the wall, Advantage II is one of the easiest ways to take control. Just one dose can start working in hours with no pills, no mess, and no scratching. And when used monthly, it keeps those pesky bugs from coming back. It’s simple, effective, and your cat will thank you.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Advantage® II
How fast does Advantage II work?
It starts killing fleas within twelve hours and continues working for up to thirty days.
Can I bathe my cat after applying it?
Yes, but wait at least twenty four hours after application for it to be fully absorbed.
Does Advantage II kill ticks?
No. It only targets fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae.
Is Advantage II safe for kittens?
Yes, for kittens eight weeks of age or older and weighing at least two pounds.
Do I need to treat all my pets?
Yes. Treat all dogs and cats in the household to prevent reinfestation.
Can fleas still be seen after treatment?
Yes, briefly. Fleas may become more visible as they rise to the top of the coat before dying.