Advantage 40 for cats up to 4 kg is a flea spot-on from Bayer (now Elanco). The active ingredient is imidacloprid: it kills fleas on contact before they bite and lay eggs, and also acts on flea larvae where the cat lies. According to the manufacturer, fleas on the cat die within 12 hours and protection lasts a month. Cats over 4 kg use Advantage 80. It's allowed for kittens, pregnant and nursing cats, and senior or weak cats. Advantage doesn't protect against ticks or worms.
What it is and who makes it
Advantage is one of the best-known flea products, developed by Bayer and made by Elanco (Germany). Imidacloprid spreads over the skin and coat and acts on fleas by contact, without them biting. That makes it suitable for cats allergic to flea bites — it's also used for flea allergy dermatitis.
Strengths and specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Active ingredient | Imidacloprid |
| Advantage 40 | Cats and kittens up to 4 kg |
| Advantage 80 | Cats over 4 kg |
| Onset | Fleas die within 12 hours |
| Protection | About 1 month |
| Targets | Fleas and their larvae |
How to apply it correctly
- Choose the pipette by your cat's weight — weigh it first.
- Part the fur at the back of the neck at the base of the skull, where the cat can't lick.
- Squeeze the whole pipette directly onto the skin.
- Don't let other pets lick the spot, and wash your hands.
- Repeat monthly, and with a heavy infestation treat the home too.
Pros
- Kills fleas before they bite. Suitable for cats allergic to flea bites.
- Acts on larvae. Helps clear fleas from where the cat lies.
- Very wide range of use. Kittens, pregnant, nursing, senior and weak cats.
- Protects the litter. According to the manufacturer, treating a nursing cat also protects her kittens.
- Water-resistant. According to the manufacturer, bathing doesn't reduce effectiveness.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- Fleas only. Doesn't act on ticks, ear mites or worms — other products are needed for those.
- Must not be licked. Apply strictly at the back of the neck or the cat may lick it off.
- A pack, not a single pipette. Good value for a course but costs more up front.
- The home needs treating. With a heavy infestation, drops alone aren't enough.
How to get rid of fleas completely
Most fleas live not on the cat but in the home: eggs, larvae and pupae hide in carpets, cracks and beds. So besides the drops, vacuum the home, wash beds at 60 °C and treat every pet — the dog with a dog product. Treat the cat for three months in a row so fleas hatching from pupae die off. The full plan is in fleas on cats.
Who it suits
Indoor cats and kittens needing flea protection, cats with flea allergy dermatitis, and pregnant and nursing cats. If you also need worm cover, see our Profender review or ask your vet about a combination product. All products are in parasite control.
Verdict
Advantage is a proven flea spot-on for cats with a very wide range of use, from kittens to senior and pregnant cats. It kills fleas before they bite and works against larvae, but doesn't protect against ticks or worms, and a heavy infestation requires treating the home.
How to tell your cat has fleas
The cat scratches often and nibbles its fur at the base of the tail; scabs and bald patches appear on the neck. You may see black specks in the coat — put them on a damp white tissue, and if they spread into reddish stains, that's digested blood, a sign of fleas. People at home may notice bites on their legs. Sometimes white segments like grains of rice show up in the litter box — that's tapeworm, caught by swallowing fleas, and it means deworming is needed too.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Advantage last?
About a month; fleas die within 12 hours of application.
Can kittens have Advantage?
Yes, it's allowed for kittens; the strength is chosen by weight.
Can a pregnant cat have it?
Yes, according to the manufacturer it can be used in pregnant and nursing cats.
Does Advantage protect against ticks?
No, only against fleas and their larvae.
Which Advantage for a 5 kg cat?
Advantage 80, for cats over 4 kg.
Can I bathe my cat after the drops?
According to the manufacturer, bathing doesn't reduce effectiveness, but it's best to skip shampoo for the first days after application.
