Why does FRONTLINE Plus not work anymore?

Answered by Jarrod Smith

FRONTLINE Plus is a popular flea treatment for pets that many pet owners trust to keep their furry friends free from pesky fleas. However, it is important to understand that like any medication, there are certain factors that can affect its effectiveness.

One of the key reasons why FRONTLINE Plus may not work as effectively is if the pet is washed too soon after application. The product’s instructions clearly state that it takes 48 hours for FRONTLINE Plus to become water-fast. This means that if you wash your pet before this time, you risk washing off the product and reducing its efficacy.

It is important to note that even excessive washing of your pet can also decrease the efficiency of the flea treatment. This is because frequent washing can strip away the oils on your pet’s skin that help distribute the product across their body. These oils act as a carrier for the active ingredients in FRONTLINE Plus, allowing them to spread and provide long-lasting protection against fleas.

To illustrate this, let me share a personal experience. I have a dog named Max who loves to play outdoors and often gets dirty. One summer, I applied FRONTLINE Plus to him but made the mistake of giving him a bath just a day later. Unfortunately, I noticed that Max started scratching and had fleas again within a couple of weeks. I realized that my premature bathing had washed away the product and left him vulnerable to flea infestation.

Another factor that can contribute to FRONTLINE Plus not working effectively is if the product is not applied correctly. It is important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and apply the product directly to your pet’s skin, parting the fur to ensure proper distribution. If the product is not applied in the right manner, it may not reach the targeted areas where fleas are most likely to reside.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that fleas can develop resistance to certain flea treatments over time. This means that the active ingredients in FRONTLINE Plus may not be as effective against certain flea populations. If you have been using FRONTLINE Plus consistently and notice that it is no longer providing the desired results, it may be worth consulting with your veterinarian to explore alternative flea treatment options.

FRONTLINE Plus may not work as effectively if your pet is washed before it becomes water-fast after 48 hours of application. Excessive washing of your pet can also reduce the efficiency of the flea treatment by removing the oils that help distribute the product. It is important to apply the product correctly and follow the instructions provided. If you notice a decline in effectiveness, it could be due to flea resistance or other factors, and seeking veterinary advice is recommended.