Protecting your pet from fleas and ticks is vital for their health and comfort. With so many products on the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.This guide covers five trusted brands offering reliable flea and tick prevention solutions. By comparing features, benefits, and possible drawbacks, you’ll be equipped to make the best choice for your pet.
1. Frontline Plus
Frontline Plus is a trusted topical treatment for dogs and cats, targeting fleas, flea eggs, larvae, and ticks. It’s especially effective against ticks that may carry Lyme disease.
Formulated for different pet sizes and weights, it ensures accurate dosing and optimal results. This makes Frontline Plus a reliable choice for comprehensive parasite protection.
Pros:
- Kills fleas, flea eggs, larvae, and ticks
- Waterproof after 24 hours
- Monthly application
- Suitable for dogs 8 weeks and older
- Available in multiple weight-specific formulations
Cons:
- May cause skin irritation in some pets
- Not effective against all tick species
- Requires monthly application
- Not safe for use with cats
- Some pets may experience a greasy coat
2. Seresto


Seresto by Elanco Animal Health is a vet-recommended flea and tick collar for cats and dogs. It uses a slow-release formula with imidacloprid and flumethrin for lasting protection.
Providing up to 8 months of coverage, the collar is non-greasy, odourless, and water-resistant—ideal for pet owners wanting hassle-free, long-term defence against pests.
Pros:
- Provides 8 months of continuous protection
- Odorless and non-greasy
- Water-resistant
- Kills and repels fleas and ticks on contact
- Suitable for dogs 7 weeks and older
Cons:
- May cause skin irritation in some pets
- Not effective against flea eggs
- Requires continuous wear
- Not suitable for use with cats
- Some pets may chew on the collar
3. K9 Advantix II


K9 Advantix II is a vet-recommended topical treatment that protects dogs from fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice. It starts working through contact, before pests bite.
Formulated with imidacloprid, permethrin, and pyriproxyfen, it’s safe for dogs 7 weeks and older. Different options are available to suit various weight ranges for accurate, effective dosing.
Pros:
- Kills fleas within 12 hours
- Repels and kills ticks, mosquitoes, and biting flies
- Waterproof after 24 hours
- Easy-to-apply topical treatment
- No prescription required
Cons:
- Not safe for use on cats
- May cause skin irritation in some dogs
- Requires monthly application
- Not effective against flea eggs and larvae
- Some dogs may experience allergic reactions
4. PetArmor Plus


PetArmor Plus provides topical flea and tick protection for dogs and cats using fipronil and (S)-methoprene. It kills adult fleas, eggs, larvae, ticks, and lice.
Each waterproof dose works for up to 30 days and suits pets 8 weeks or older. Designed by weight range, it begins killing pests within 24–48 hours and remains effective through bathing or swimming.
Pros:
- Kills fleas, ticks, and chewing lice
- Prevents flea egg development
- Waterproof after 24 hours
- Monthly application
- Suitable for dogs and cats 8 weeks and older
Cons:
- May cause skin irritation in some pets
- Not effective against all tick species
- Requires monthly application
- Not safe for use with other pets during application
- Some pets may experience a greasy coat
5. Capstar


Capstar is a fast-acting oral flea treatment from Elanco, designed for both dogs and cats. It uses nitenpyram to start killing adult fleas within 30 minutes.
Safe for pets 4 weeks and older, weighing 2–25 pounds, Capstar offers quick relief from infestations. However, it’s intended for immediate control and not long-term prevention.
- Kills adult fleas within 30 minutes
- Safe for puppies and kittens 4 weeks and older
- Can be used with other flea treatments
- No prescription required
- Easy to administer orally
Cons:
- Does not prevent future flea infestations
- Only effective against adult fleas
- May require multiple doses for ongoing infestations
- Not suitable for pets under 2 pounds
- May cause mild side effects like itching or gastrointestinal upset










