A.Washing the dog or cat with insecticides (for example shampoos containing pyrethrin I and II and piperonyl bubutoxid) kills the adult fleas that happen to be on the dog or cat while it is being washed. There is no residual effect that protects against the fleas that jump on to the pet after the treatment. Therefore, these methods only functions a supplements to another control methods.

B. Flea collars and pour-on medications work by depositing the insecticide into the fur of the pet. From there, it sprinkles onto the places where the animal is, and thereby also where the flea eggs, larvae, etc. are located. These control methods can often kill a small population of fleas, but they are also used as support other control methods of the pet’s surrounding environment. Flea collars and pour-on products are also used preventively.

C. Methoprene is an insect hormone. When injected into the fur of the dog or cat, it will prevent the newly laid eggs from hatching. If used on its own, this control method best serves to prevent flea infestation or to control very small flea infestations. This can also be used as a supplement to other control methods.

An English zoologist has estimated that a typical cat flea population includes about 5000 fleas at various stages of development: 25 adult fleas are on the dog or cat. In the surroundings – mainly in carpets and in the animal’s sleeping place – there are 500 adult fleas, 500 cocoons, 3000 larvae and 1000 eggs. Therefore, the surrounding environment must also be treated.

There are several different ways to control fleas on cats. Some are quite effective if you are thorough, while others work best in combination with others. Most flea control methods are combinations of the following methods.