Using a Flea Collar for Flea Control

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A Convenient and Safe Way to Prevent Fleas and Ticks on Your Pet

For many people, treated flea collars seem like a safe and convenient method to control fleas on their pets. Unfortunately, despite what manufacturers may claim, flea collars alone are not very effective at controlling fleas.

Flea collars generally work in one of two ways – either by emitting a toxic gas, or by releasing toxins (to fleas) that are absorbed into the layer of fat beneath the pet’s skin.

The toxic gas method is usually only effective in the immediate area of the collar, i.e. the pet’s head and neck. These collars are best used in vacuum cleaner bags, where the gas is contained, and can be effective against fleas that are vacuumed up.

Flea collars that release toxins that are absorbed into the fat layer are much more effective. These can contain pyrethrins, as well as IGR’s, or insect growth regulators that inhibit flea egg and larva growth. Remember, controlling the early stages of the flea life cycle is just as important as killing adult fleas.

Ask your vet for recommendations bout the best flea collar for your pet. Some ingredients, such as permethrins, should not be used on cats. Your vet should be able to recommend, and even provide, the best flea collar option for your pet.

Keep in mind, as with any topical flea treatment, success depends on treating the environment as well. That means consistently killing the fleas in your home as well, and undertaking a regular program of treating and vacuuming your carpets, particularly the areas your pet frequents, washing bedding, and treating any other areas that may harbor fleas, eggs or larva.