A flea collar is an elasticized plastic band impregnated with one or more chemicals that, when worn around an animal’s neck, repel and/or kill fleas. These chemicals usually include insecticides such as permethrin and methoprene. Flea collars are available for both cats and dogs, though some are designed specifically for one or the other.
When a flea collar is in use, it releases low concentrations of insecticide over time which keeps the pests away from your pet. Once the collars begin to wear out after a few months, they should be replaced with a fresh collar in order to maintain their effectiveness. Some brands even offer long-lasting flea collars that can last up to 8 months!
Flea collars work by two main methods: Chemical exposure and natural repellents. The chemical exposure method involves the release of small amounts of insecticides from the collar that act to actually kill adult fleas that come into contact with it, as well as larvae which are repelled by it. Natural repellents work by releasing odors that detect fleas away and make them steer clear of your pet’s neck area where they normally lodge themselves when trying to feed off of them.
The Active Ingredient
The active ingredient in flea collars is typically Pyrethrin, a botanical insecticide derived from the chrysanthemum flower. This has several advantages over traditional chemical-based insecticides: it easily sticks to fur of mammals, and it can be naturally expelled from their bodies while they groom themselves.
Once applied, the Pyrethrin aerosolizes and settles onto the skin and fur of the pet. It then works by attacking the nervous system of fleas and other parasites when they bite into the animal injected with Pyrethrin. This leads to paralysis, death and ultimately removal of fleas from your pet’s body.
The active ingredient also creates an odor that repels fleas and other parasites, so it acts as a preventative measure when those bothersome critters come sniffing around looking for a meal!
How it Works
The flea collar works by slowly releasing small amounts of insecticides in a gas form over the course of several days or even weeks. It is designed to kill small larval and adult stages of fleas and may prevent flea eggs from hatching. Some collars also contain pheromones that warn other fleas to https://www.serestocollars.net/product-category/small-dogs/ stay away. The amount and type of insecticide used will vary depending on the particular brand of collar you select.
When selecting a flea collar, look for one with an EPA approved active ingredient such as pyrethroids, methoprene, s-methoprene, etofenprox, or permethrin. These ingredients are known to be effective against fleas and are also deemed safe if used according to the package instructions. Many brands also come with lighter doses intended for smaller dogs and cats in order to ensure a better fit and less irritation to the pet’s skin or fur.
When to use a Flea Collar
It’s a good idea to use a flea collar if your pet has bad fleas or if you’re in an area with a significant flea problem. Flea collars work by emitting low-level doses of insecticide, which is then absorbed into your pet’s skin and coat. The active ingredients in the collar paralyze and/or kill parasites on contact, protecting your pet from further infestations.
It’s also important to keep an eye out for signs of flea activity and start preventive measures as soon as possible. Common signs include excessively scratching or licking, bald patches on fur due to excessive scratching or licking, black specs in your pet’s fur that resemble pepper flakes, presence of flea eggs or the adults themselves. If you spot any of these activities, it’s time to get a flea collar and protect your pet from further infestation.
Resolution
Flea collars can be an effective tool against pet infestations, but it’s important that pet parents understand how they work and the potential side effects of long term use.