Do Flea Collars Really Work?

If you’ve been plagued by fleas and have tried a variety of preventative measures like topical flea medication, you’re probably wondering: do flea collars really work? This is a good question because flea collars do provide some benefits over other preventative measures. First, unlike spot treatments, which often require a monthly or weekly application, flea collars provide long-lasting protection.

Flea collars can last anywhere from three to eight months. While the longer-lasting collars cost more, they’re cheaper than topical treatments. Also, make sure to check the collar’s odor before you purchase it, as some natural flea collars have strong odors.

Flea collars usually contain propoxur, a chemical that breaks down the nervous system of fleas and ticks. When applied to your dog’s fur, the chemical destroys the life cycle of the pests, causing them to die within 24 hours. However, it’s important to note that propoxur can be harmful to humans, so be sure to wash your hands thoroughly before applying it to your pet. Also, don’t touch your face or eyes when you apply it.

Another major drawback to flea collars is that they can be dangerous. If ingested or misused, flea collars can cause harm to your pet, especially small and elderly pets. In addition, these collars may interfere with certain medications that your pet is taking. Some of these medications can be fatal in these cases. In addition, some pets are allergic to fleas, so it’s important to read labels carefully and make sure you don’t accidentally use the wrong product.