Advantix for Cats

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Advantix for cats actually does not exist as a flea control product.

The confusion lies in the fact that Bayer makes different flea control products that can easily be confused with one another. Advantix uses permethrin as the active ingredient and it’s use is only for dogs.

The Advantage line has formulations approved for both dogs and cats (Advantage II), while the Advantix line is made for use in dogs only. Using Advantix for fleas in cats will cause feline health issues.

Is Advantix safe for cats?

No. Cats cannot metabolize permethrin and will suffer toxic side effects if exposed. (Dogs can metabolize permethrin effectively.)

Cats are sometimes exposed to Advantix in a number of ways, including direct application, close contact (within 48 hours) with a dog who has been previously treated.

Is it an emergency if I accidentally put my dog’s Advantix flea and tick medication on my cat?

Yes, please act immediately.

  • Bathe your cat as thoroughly as possible
  • Have someone else call an emergency vet while you are doing this to save time
  • Wrap the animal in a towel and head to the closest emergency vet

Reaction from the cat can include:

  • Scratching
  • Biting
  • Drooling
  • Pawing at the mouth.

If you see signs of neurological problems — tremors, twitching or shaking — it’s time to take the cat to the vet right away.

>> What to do if you put dog flea medicine on your cat

Apply Advantix only to the animal it is prescribed for. 

Keep your dog’s flea medications away from your cat and after applying these medicines to your dog.

Also keep the animals separate for at least four hours if possible. The permethrin will stay on the dog’s skin and coat for some time and when a cat grooms or even rubs against the dog, or simply sits on the same furniture, it can be poisoned.

Why is Permethrin toxic for cats but not dogs?

The cat liver lacks certain enzymes that metabolize, or break down some chemicals into harmless forms, meaning that the chemical can accumulate in the cat’s body and cause serious illness. Dog’s are able to metabolize permethrin.

This difference in drug metabolism is why we must never assume that a drug or product which is safe for dogs will be safe to use for cats.