A chewable flea-control medication makes the prospect of administering drugs easier by enticing cats to eat the tablet, rather than dispensing the pill into an unwilling feline mouth and risking life and limb in the process.
Product
As of 2010, the only approved flea-control chewable in the United States is Program Flavor Tabs, manufactured by Novartis Animal Health.
Function
Administered monthly, Program chewables contain the active drug lufenuron, which inhibits the growth and development cycle of fleas.
Features
Lufenuron interferes with the chemical processes in egg- and larval-stage fleas. It does not kill adult fleas or fleas in the pupal stage.
Warning
Reported side effects of chewable flea-control tabs for cats include vomiting, lethargy, lack of appetite, loose stools, irritability, hyperactivity, trouble breathing and skin problems. If your cat experiences these side effects, seek medical treatment immediately.
Benefits
The chewable flea-control tablets are made from pork and soy. The flavors are meant to entice cats into eating the tablet, which can also safely be broken up and mixed into wet food.
References
- Program Flavor Tabs Product Info (PDF)
- Veterinary Information Network: Flea Control
- Applied Pharmacology for Veterinary Technicians; Boyce Wanamaker; 2009
Photo Credits
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Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Hélène
Writer Bio
Elizabeth Tumbarello has been writing since 2006, with her work appearing on various websites. She is an animal lover who volunteers with her local Humane Society. Tumbarello attended Hocking College and is pursuing her Associate of Applied Science in veterinary technology from San Juan College.
