Advantix for dogs | Advantix flea & tick treatment | Advantix side effects

Advantix is a highly effective and easy to use "spot-on" type treatment for the control of fleas, ticks and various biting insects on dogs. Advantix is toxic to cats and should not be used on them.

How does Advantix work?

Advantix contains two ingredients, imidacloprid and permethrin. Both these ingredients are able to spread from the site of application, gradually coating the whole of the skin and coat in insecticide. They are not absorbed through the skin to any significant extent. Biting insects are repelled or killed by contact with the ingredients. The ingredients are "waterproof" and are not easily washed off through getting wet or swimming.

What animals is Advantix suitable for?

It is suitable for dogs over 7 weeks of age, but not recommended for pregnant or lactating bitches. Advantix is toxic to cats and should never be used for them.

Why is Advantix used?

It is effective where flea problems are particularly heavy. It is also used where ticks are common (certain parts of the UK) or on dogs which travel to Southern Europe on the Pet Passport Scheme. As well as fleas, it controls the following additional parasites:
Ticks - these biting parasites can transmit Lymes disease (Borreliosis) , Ehrlichiosis and Babesiosis. These are all serious illnesses which show varied symptoms including joint, skin, and blood disorders and fever.
Sand flies - biting flies, found around the Mediterranean which can transmit Lieshmaniasis. Affected dogs show weight loss, skin lesions and swollen lymph nodes. They become lame and suffer repeated high temperatures.
Mosquitoes - common everywhere but in certain areas they transmit  Dirofilariasis (heartworm disease). This is associated with serious breathing and bleeding disorders and is not uncommon in Spain and France.

What are Advantix side effects?

Most dogs show no side effects at all, even on accidental overdose. Side effects can be seen, particularly if dogs swallow any of the medication. These can be mild salivation and oral discomfort, skin irritation and hair loss (mainly at the site of application) , muscle tremors, rapid breathing, lethargy and other neurological effects. A few dogs are sensitive to the ingredients when used at normal dose and might show significant (usually temporary) neurological effects. The incidence of side effects appears to be low and overall this is a safe product, but problems can occur. It is also worth noting that the diseases which can be prevented by using Advantix are often serious. The decision on whether or not to use Advantix involves making a balanced assessment of the risks involved. Routine flea control for dogs in most situations within the UK would not probably warrant using Advantix because even safer products are available. However use is certainly justified in dogs which are at risk of picking up the other illnesses. Local disease prevalence should be taken into account and if in doubt, your own vet is the best person to advise you. A range of "natural" remedies are available to prevent insects biting, but their efficacy is not proven and is definitely questionable.

Where can I buy Advantix?

Advantix is available directly from your veterinary surgeon, or can be purchased securely online from Viovet.co.uk

Article written by:
John Cousins BVSc MRCVS - A veterinary surgeon from VioVet - Online Pet Store & Pharmacy.

The article reflects the opinions of the author and should only be used as a guide. It can only be taken in conjunction with advice from your vet. No liability is accepted for accuracy of content or any other matter.