Description
Frontline Spray is a treatment applied to a dog or cat’s skin to kill and prevent fleas, ticks, and biting lice. It can be used on adult pets, as well as puppies and kittens that are at least two days old. If a pet has skin problems caused by flea bites, a veterinarian may recommend this spray as part of the treatment. Frontline Spray works by covering the pet’s coat and skin, creating a protective layer. The duration of protection is up to three months against fleas in dogs and up to two months in cats. For ticks, the product is effective for up to one month.
Directions
Wear PVC or nitrile gloves to protect your skin. Spray the product directly onto the dog or cat’s body from 10 to 20 cm away, working against the direction of hair growth and making sure the coat is dampened to the skin. When applied to the head or for nervous animals, spray it onto a gloved hand and gently rub it in. Use 6 to 12 pumps per kg with the 100 ml spray and 2 to 4 pumps per kg with the 250/500 ml spray. The amount depends on hair length. Apply the product in a well-ventilated area or outdoors, avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and broken skin, and let the fur dry naturally without towel drying.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Frontline Spray is fipronil.
Contraindications
Avoid giving this medication if any of the following apply:
- Animals that are sick, have a fever, are recovering from illness, or have a serious health condition
- The use of this product in rabbits, as it can cause severe reactions and may be fatal. This product is only for use in dogs and cats.
Cautions
- Before giving this medication, consult a veterinarian about the following:
- Any existing health conditions
- Any allergies
- A list of all medications being taken
- Only use Frontline Spray on dogs and cats, and never give more than the recommended amount. Avoid spraying near your pet’s eyes or on broken skin, and let them dry in a well-ventilated room before putting them in a crate or carrier.
- Make sure your pet is weighed before treatment and that animals don’t lick each other afterward. Don’t use near open flames or heat sources, and keep pets away from these areas for at least 30 minutes or until fully dry.
- Frontline Spray may not prevent all ticks from attaching, so there’s still a small chance of disease transmission. To fully control infestations, treat all pets in the household at the same time with the right product for each animal.
- Apply the spray outside or in a room with good airflow. Do not breathe in the spray, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking during application.
- Wear gloves and a waterproof apron when applying the spray. If it gets on your skin, wash it off with soap and water right away. If it gets in your eyes, rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- People with allergies, asthma, or sensitivities to fipronil or alcohol should avoid using this product. If irritation or a reaction occurs, get medical advice and stop using the spray.
- Don’t touch treated pets until they are fully dry. Children should not play with them or sleep near them after application. It’s best to treat pets in the evening.
- If you're treating more than one animal, make sure the space is well ventilated and allow time between treatments. Let each pet dry separately to reduce vapor buildup in the air.
- Keep treated dogs out of rivers, lakes, and other natural water sources for 2 days after spraying, as the ingredients may harm aquatic life.
Side Effects
Frontline Spray is generally well tolerated, but some dogs and cats may experience side effects. In extremely rare cases, temporary skin issues such as redness, itching, or hair loss have been reported after application. If licking occurs, it may cause brief hypersalivation due to the spray’s carrier ingredients.
Occasionally, more serious but reversible effects like vomiting, breathing changes, or neurological signs such as increased sensitivity or depression have been observed. These reactions are uncommon and usually resolve without long-term issues. To reduce the risk of side effects, avoid overdosing and follow the application instructions carefully.
References:
FRONTLINE SPRAY 0.25% w/v Cutaneous Spray Solution Viewing Datasheet. London, UK: National Office of Animal Health; n.d.
About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)
Dr. Sison graduated with honors from the University of Florida. He began his career in pharmacy counseling patients in a community setting and later served in hospitals and clinics. He has also worked in medication therapy management services. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 15279