Last week we covered parasite prevention options for dogs and reviewed common products that I recommend using to prevent fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal parasites in our canine companions. This week, it’s all about the cats, and the stakes are even higher. Parasite prevention is important for all pets, but cats are especially sensitive to the wrong products. What works for dogs can be extremely harmful for cats.
Today, I’ll walk you through the bad, good, better, and best options for keeping your feline friend parasite-free. And don’t forget to use prevention even for indoor pets, which can still encounter fleas and mosquitos!
Disclaimer!!!! As always, talk to your veterinarian before starting any new product. This post is for educational purposes only and isn’t a substitute for veterinary care or the guidance of your personal vet.
Additionally, I am a relief veterinarian and I do not gain anything financially by recommending any of the below products- I recommend them because they are safe, effective, and I want your pets to live long, healthy lives!
A Special Warning: The Wrong Product Can Be Dangerous
Cats are NOT small dogs. Their bodies process medications very differently. Using the wrong product can have serious side effects, and even cause drooling, tremors, seizures, and in some cases, death.
Never use a dog product on a cat. Even if it’s just topical and your cat accidentally licks or rubs against a recently treated dog, it can still cause toxicity. Always read the label and ask your vet if you’re unsure.
If you accidentally apply the wrong product? Immediately wash it off of your cat using a follicular flushing shampoo, such as blue dawn dish soap. Then, seek veterinary attention.
The Bad: Products That Put Cats at Risk
Hartz, Adam’s, and Similar Products
These OTC flea products are easy to find and often inexpensive, but they are not safe (and usually not very effective). Many contain inappropriate concentrations of permethrins or pyrethrins, which are extremely toxic to cats. Even if labeled “safe,” I don’t recommend them. There are much safer and more effective options out there.
Flea Shampoos
Flea shampoos are harsh, stressful, and offer very limited benefit. They usually only kill adult fleas and won’t address the rest of the flea life cycle. Realistically, you’d have to bathe your cat daily for weeks to make a dent in an infestation. Most cats (and most humans) are not up for that.
Heartgard Oral Tablets or Interceptor for Cats
Some people ask if they can use dog heartworm pills like Heartgard or Interceptor on their cat. The answer is no—canine preventatives should never be used on cats. Even though there are feline-labeled versions of both Heartgard and Interceptor, they’re rarely used today. These products can be difficult to administer, and they don’t offer the broad protection that newer options provide. With safer, easier, and more effective choices now available, there’s really no reason to give your cat a monthly chewable. I wouldn’t want to, and I’m guessing your cat wouldn’t either.
The Good: Safe but Limited Options
Revolution
This is a monthly topical that protects against fleas, heartworms, ear mites, and some intestinal parasites. It’s safe, easy to use, and a solid choice for many cats. However, it does not cover ticks, which can be a concern depending on where you live.
Bravecto for Cats
Bravecto is a long-acting topical that protects against fleas and ticks for up to 12 weeks. It’s convenient and effective, especially for cats who hate monthly treatments. But keep in mind, it doesn’t protect against heartworms or internal parasites.
The Better: Broader Coverage with Minor Gaps
Revolution Plus
This is a great option for most cats. It covers fleas, ticks, heartworms, ear mites, and intestinal parasites. It’s easy to apply once a month and is well tolerated. The only reason it doesn’t make the “best” list is because it isn’t labeled for as many species of ticks as NexGard Combo. If you live in an area with heavy tick pressure, you may want to ask your vet about combining it with another option.
The Best: Complete Monthly Protection
Nexgard Combo
This is one of the most complete parasite prevention options available for cats. It protects against fleas, ticks, heartworms, intestinal worms, and more—all in one monthly topical. It’s safe for most cats and incredibly convenient. If you’re looking for a no-brainer option, this is it. Be warned: the dosing syringe looks a little weird. This is a TOPICAL product, not an oral (even though the packaging makes it look like you would give it by mouth).
Final Thoughts: Keep It Safe, Keep It Consistent
Even indoor cats need parasite prevention. Fleas and mosquitos find their way into homes more often than you’d think. The wrong product can be dangerous, and skipping prevention altogether leaves your pet at risk.
Talk to your vet, pick the right product for your cat, and stay consistent.
Don’t forget to give this month’s dose. Mark it in your calendar, set a reminder, or write it in your planner. Your cat’s health is worth it.
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Okay, so what if…I have a 9-year-old cat that has never responded well to prevention. Like, foaming at the mouth. The thought of stressing her out that much each month is awful…any suggestions?
The foaming at the mouth is *likely* if she somehow licked it. So applying really high on the back of the neck/head can help! There are also a few oral products on the market, although *most* people prefer the topicals! Overall, she is very LOW risk for getting parasites, BUT I would consider trying a few different products to see what works best.