Flea and tick collar for dogs: how to choose a parasite control product

What brand of flea collar is best to choose?

The rating presents products from 10 manufacturers with the best reputation in the pet market and extensive experience in the field of veterinary medicine. Each of them has received many positive reviews and has received various awards.

Let's describe all brands in more detail:

• Bayer is a company with a tradition of research in agriculture and health. The company's product portfolio includes more than 100 veterinary drugs for the care and treatment of animals. One of the brand’s products is the Foresto collar for long-term protection of dogs and cats from fleas, lice, and ticks.
• Agrovetzaschita - the company began operating in 1993. Today it produces more than 300 products for pets and supplies goods not only to the Russian market, but also to European countries. The company produces care and medicinal products for cats and dogs, including protection against insects. Repellent collars contain various essential oils, have a good length - from 35 cm, and are suitable for pets older than 1-2 months, depending on the model.
• Rolf Сlub 3D – veterinary drugs are produced under this brand. The brand is registered in Russia and specializes in developing products for dogs and cats. Among it you can find shampoos, drops, sprays, and flea collars. The latter are characterized by a long service life - from 3 months, the absence of a pungent odor, and a safe composition containing highly active substances.
• Celandine is a series of preparations created for owners of dogs and cats of various breeds. It belongs to a research and production company that has been operating in the veterinary market for more than 20 years. The brand has repeatedly won the national “Product of the Year” award. These flea collars are considered the best because of their longevity (at least 3 months) and additional protection against ticks.
• Beaphar - the company's mission is to produce high-quality products that would help in caring for and maintaining the health of pets. The company's catalog includes antiparasitic agents, food, care products, vitamin supplements, and collars. The key advantages of Beaphar products are fast and long-lasting action (about 4 months), the absence of allergic reactions in animals, and a high degree of water resistance.
• Bars is a brand owned by . The company's products fight against fleas, lice, lice, and are effective in preventing ixodid ticks. Fipronil and some others are used as active ingredients. In appearance, they are a polymer tape with a slight odor, the excess of which is cut off.
• Ms. Kiss is a brand of products for cats and dogs, developing its products in collaboration with the Swiss laboratory Swiss Laboratory Defense. The company creates products taking into account different breeds of pets. They are distinguished by their safe action and instant reaction of parasites.
• Apicenna is a supplier of products for ferrets, rabbits, cats, dogs. Among them, special mention should be made of repellent collars, which are used both for the prevention and control of fleas, ticks, and lice-eaters. They are characterized by the absence of parasite resistance to the drug due to the combination of several active substances. This interrupts the larval development cycle and prevents the reproduction of adults.
• Insectal is another brand. Her collars have a beautiful golden color, allowing them to be not only protection from insects, but also decoration. The brand's products are distinguished by their safety and highly effective two-component formula.
• GreenFort is a brand of Neoterica, whose products are sold in more than 10 countries around the world. The company specializes in the development of animal care products, the production of various treats and vitamins, and has an anti-parasitic line. The latter includes the best flea collars for pets, suitable for sick and weakened, pregnant and allergy-prone cats and dogs.

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Recommended Collars

BARS®.

The insecticidal collar is used to protect against fleas, ixodid ticks, lice, and lice. The polymer tape can be 80 cm long (for large dogs), 50 cm (for medium dogs) and 35 cm (for small dogs). The collar contains fipronil and diflubenzuron. The insect growth regulator (diflubenzuron) suppresses the growth of integumentary tissues of parasites, disrupts the development of larvae in eggs and molting, and prevents pupae from fully developing. Fipronil is an insectoacaricide. It is not absorbed into the systemic circulation. Its accumulation occurs in the epidermis, hair follicles and sebaceous glands. With the secretion of the sebaceous glands, the substances are distributed over the surface of the skin and provide a long-lasting protective effect. The period of use of the BARS® collar is up to 4 months. It is not recommended to use the collar for puppies under 2 months of age, sick and weakened animals, pregnant (in the last third of the term) and lactating females.

FitoDoc®

. The repellent collar is designed to repel ixodid ticks, fleas, and other insects. It comes in 3 sizes: 80 cm (for large breed dogs), 50 cm (for medium dogs) and 35 cm (for small dogs). The collar contains natural ingredients: essential oils of margosa, citronella, eucalyptus, tea tree, lavender. They also accumulate on the epidermis, hair follicles and sebaceous glands of the animal's body and provide a repellent effect. The FitoDoc® collar provides protection for 3 months against fleas and other insects and up to 5 weeks against ticks. The product should not be used on puppies under 2 months of age.

4 with a ponytail®

. This collar is designed to repel fleas, lice, lice, scabies and ixodid mites. It contains essential oils of citronella, lavender, geranium, peppermint, eucalyptus. Active substances accumulate in the sebaceous glands and have a detrimental effect on insects. The collars are available in three sizes: 35, 50 and 65 cm. The product has a high safety profile and is usually well tolerated by dogs of different ages and breeds, including sick and weakened animals, pregnant and lactating females. It should not be used only for puppies younger than 2 months and with individual intolerance to the active substances. When worn continuously, the collar provides protection against insects for up to 3 months and against ticks for 4 weeks.

Rating of the best flea collars

The market sells products from more than 10 manufacturers, but not every product can boast of both efficiency, convenience, safety and an optimal price/quality ratio.

When preparing the rating, we were guided by the following characteristics:

• Purpose – destruction of fleas and ticks, prevention of mosquito attacks;
• Duration of action;
• Length of the product;
• Color spectrum;
• Composition of the drug;
• Presence of odor;
• Best before date;
• Minimum acceptable age for a pet;
• Moisture resistance;
• Hypoallergenic.

We also evaluated collars from the point of view of convenience and reliability of fixation on the neck of animals, and ease of removing excess products. In addition, the manufacturer's recommendations for their use, contraindications and the reaction of pets were taken into account.

The best shampoos for cats and kittens according to customer reviews

How to put on a collar correctly

In order to put on an accessory, you first need to determine the size. As a rule, all manufacturers produce four types of accessories:

• for large dogs;
• for averages;
• for small ones;
• for decorative ones.

The weight of the dog is calculated, and then you can buy. And now the question arises - how to put a collar on a dog?

The flea collar for dogs itself is easy to put on. The main thing is to correctly adjust the size to your dog and remove the jumpers. Excess pieces should definitely be cut off so that they do not interfere with the animal. It is extremely rare for a dog to be allergic to a flea collar. However, when the product is used for the first time, it is worth observing the dog’s condition for a couple of days. If the collar does not fit, the dog’s well-being will deteriorate sharply. Lethargy, vomiting, and refusal to eat are possible. In this case, you should remove this item from your neck.

Any collar is extremely important for a dog. Even from a small puppy, he needs to be accustomed to it in order to avoid health problems. Special flea and tick collars are an important accessory from early spring to late autumn . It’s definitely not worth saving on such a product, since the health of your pet often depends on it. Also, do not forget to change this accessory on time, since it is valid for no more than six months.

Best Flea Collars for Dogs

For dogs, the collar should be longer than for cats - at least 30 cm, depending on the breed. Such pet products protect not only from fleas, but also from other parasites - lice eaters, ticks, mosquitoes. There are products from more than 10 manufacturers on the market, and the best of them, according to reviews and tests, are the 4 models described in this rating category.

Foresto

The collar is designed to eliminate fleas and ticks from dogs. It is designed for adult dogs, puppies and kittens, but the minimum age is 7 weeks. The weight of the animal should not exceed 8 kg. The length of the product comes with a margin of 38 cm, the rest can be easily cut with scissors. This model is valid for 240 days, and its effectiveness does not decrease over time. Foresto remains active even when exposed to water.

Advantages

• Contains two active components - imidacloprid and flumethrin;
• Reflective clips help keep track of your pet in the dark;
• Shelf life – 3 years;
• Affects both adult fleas and flea larvae;
• Convenient and reliable clasp;
• Hypoallergenic.

Flaws

• Doesn't protect 100%.

The reviews write that the animal reacts normally to this model. It is convenient to put on the dog and there is no unpleasant smell. On average, it lasts 8 months, but it is better for dogs to change the collar more often if possible.

Agrovet protection, Four with a tail

The collar begins to work almost immediately after putting it on. It helps even with severe damage, but before using it, to enhance the effect, it is recommended to wash the dog with insecticidal shampoo. The product is suitable for all breeds older than 1 month, it can also be used to control fleas in puppies. This model also has protective properties against lice, lice and ticks.

Advantages

• Safe for pregnant females;
• Easy to adjust to size;
• Contains highly active substances - essential oils;
• Remains effective when exposed to water;
• Considerable length - 65 cm;
• Minimum contraindications.

Flaws

• If you are sensitive to the composition, side effects are possible.

The “Agrovetzaschita, Four with a Tail” model is suitable for use for 24 months from the date of production. After this period, the activity of the collar decreases.

RolfСlub 3D

This is one of the longest-lasting collars in the rating, it lasts for 180 days. It is intended for puppies and adult dogs of small breeds. This is evidenced, in particular, by the length of 40 cm. Protection is carried out at three levels: the drug destroys parasites before they bite, blocks their reproduction and for six months prevents the attack of ixodid ticks, mosquitoes and other insects. The product is both therapeutic and preventive at the same time. However, protection from blood-sucking dipterans is only possible for up to 5 days.

Advantages

• Rapid paralytic effect on insects;
• The composition is non-toxic;
• Prevents parasites from moving around the animal;
• Many active components in the composition - fipronil, pyriproxyfen, etc.;
• Reliable fastening;
• Easy to put on.

Flaws

• In rare cases, itching and redness may occur;
• It is recommended to remove before swimming.

According to reviews, RolfСlub 3D is quite effective in controlling fleas, but the result may worsen if used incorrectly.

Celandine Maximum

This is the leader in terms of price-quality ratio in our rating. It can be used to control fleas in adult dogs and puppies, but there are age restrictions - from 4 months. The pet receives protection from parasites for at least 90 days. Such results are provided by two active substances - fipronil and permethrin, which are safe for the animal. According to reviews, the Celandine Maximum flea collar for cats starts working quickly, but for maximum effect it is recommended to wear it 2-3 days before possible contact with insects.

Advantages

• Excess is removed without problems;
• Tough enough;
• Easy to fasten;
• Does not put pressure on the skin;
• Decent length – 65 cm.

Flaws

• Should not be used on pregnant animals;
• Not suitable for nursing dogs.

The instructions indicate that the Celandine Maximum anti-flea collar should not be used by convalescent dogs or dogs with infectious diseases.

The best flea collars for cats

Such collars, when containing active substances, work for 3-6 months. They destroy adult fleas and larvae, repel ticks, mosquitoes and lice-eaters. We studied the manufacturers' proposals and included the 4 best options in the TOP according to reviews and test results.

Beaphar

The Beaphar collar is a premium product, suitable for both regular and purebred cats. The product can be worn on kittens older than 6 months. The length of 35 cm is more than enough for a comfortable fixation on the neck. Its expected lifespan is six months, but much depends on the type of parasite. The clasp here is reliable, tight, but does not press. The composition is based on diazinon, a contact and intestinal insecticide that leaves fleas no chance of survival.

Advantages

• Works well when in contact with water;
• The cat quickly stops itching;
• Does not leave marks on wool;
• Length can be adjusted;
• It works without pre-treatment with drops.

Flaws

• Sometimes the skin becomes irritated;
• In the summer season it lasts for a shorter period;
• The suffocation defense mechanism is too soft.

Beaphar is only effective when worn continuously and cannot be removed when bathing the animal.

Bars AVZ

This is another budget-friendly insecticidal flea collar for kittens and adult cats. It is also indicated for use in cases of lice, hairworms, and mites. It is also used to repel mosquito attacks. The period of protection against parasites when constantly wearing the product is 4-5 months, depending on their type. The drug is effective against larvae and adults. To improve results, it is recommended to pre-treat the wool with zoo shampoo.

Advantages

• High degree of water resistance;
• Does not lose its effectiveness over time;
• Durable enough;
• Length – 35 cm;
• High concentration of the active substance fipronil;
• Doesn't delaminate.

Flaws

• Suitable only for cats older than two months;
• Not everyone likes dark colors.

Reviews note that when cats walk in places with a risk of flea infestation, they can infect the animal, but die the next day.

Ms.Kiss New

First of all, the collar catches your eye because of its bright burgundy and blue colors; it is sold in two colors. Users consider the low cost to be no less important – about 200 rubles. For such a price, the product justifies itself and protects for at least 90 days. Cat owners like the natural base in the form of essential oils of lavender and citronella, which eliminate the unpleasant odor.

Advantages

• The active substance is evenly distributed throughout the coat;
• Reliable clasp;
• Can be worn on kittens older than 1 month;
• Works well even after contact with water;
• Length is 38 cm.

Flaws

• There have been cases of cats pulling off the collar.

Ms.Kiss New works well in preventing fleas in pregnant, weakened and sick cats.

Apicenna Dana Ultra

The Apicenna Dana Ultra model has proven itself among the options with an optimal price-quality ratio. The drug contains 3 active substances at once - ivermectin, fipronil, pyriproxyfen, which increases its effectiveness. The collar fights fleas and ticks, as well as arachnoenthomosis. Its purpose is not only to treat, but also to prevent infection with the listed parasites.

Advantages

• High degree of water resistance;
• Duration of action – 90 days;
• Considerable length - 40 cm;
• It is noticeable on the neck, which allows you to recognize the cat as a domestic one;
• Suitable for kittens;
• Rare individual sensitivity to components.

Flaws

• In some cases, lacrimation may occur.

The product has a shelf life of 730 days, but its effectiveness may decrease over time.

Operating principle of protective equipment

The protective device is made of plastic and is a narrow flexible tape equipped with a locking buckle. The product has a specific odor because it is saturated with toxic chemicals designed to repel insects. For the insecticidal substance to work, you just need to put the flea and tick collar on the animal. Due to the dog’s body temperature, the tape will heat up, and the poison will gradually begin to distribute throughout the fur and skin of the four-legged friend.

After approximately two days, the adult animal is completely protected from bloodsuckers. Penetrating and accumulating in the sebaceous glands, the toxic substance is distributed evenly over the entire surface of the pet’s skin. The required concentration of poison, which allows you to protect the dog from fleas and ticks, is maintained throughout the entire period of wearing the collar. It is recommended not to remove it even at night. However, it should be borne in mind that insects die only after being bitten by an animal. To protect your pet from contracting dangerous diseases, manufacturers add repellents to pesticides that repel fleas and ticks with unpleasant odors.

Flea collars

However, additives, unlike insecticides, remain active for a month, although the collar itself is designed for an average of four months. This is ensured by the presence of strong poisons in protective equipment. The manufacturer warns that the flea collar for dogs, which comes with instructions, may cause side effects. The most common negative consequences include excessive agitation, allergic dermatitis, swelling, salivation and lacrimation, and other reactions. Veterinarians recommend carefully studying the information contained in the instructions to avoid unpleasant complications.

The Best All-Purpose Flea Collars

Such models are called universal because they can be worn on both dogs and kittens. They contain from 1 to 3 active ingredients and often include various essential oils to repel mosquitoes. We analyzed reviews of 10 models and added to this TOP section the 2 best flea collars for cats and dogs in terms of the combination of quality and price.

Insectal

The collar is designed for both dogs and cats, equally effective on any breed. It can be used by both adults and puppies and kittens. The only limitation is the length of the product - 40 cm - this model cannot be worn on very large dogs. The product is used to destroy ixodid ticks, lice, lice, and fleas. It is also effective for preventing infection during periods of increased parasite activity.

Advantages

• Valid for 90 days;
• Contains two active substances - permethrin and fipronil;
• Does not have a strong odor;
• Easy to adjust to size;
• Protects against ticks for 4 months.

Flaws

• There is no special choice of colors.

Cats and dogs, as reviews show, quickly get used to Insectal. Judging by the behavior of the animals, it does not put pressure on the skin and does not lead to matting of the hair.

GreenFort

This is a universal collar, suitable for both cats and dogs. It can be used to kill fleas on pets older than 1 month. There are practically no contraindications for this, with the exception of individual intolerance. The model is waterproof, so animals can be bathed directly with the product on. It repels parasites with the content of essential oils.

Advantages

• Prevents mosquitoes from biting dogs and cats;
• Has a minimum of contraindications;
• Prevents tick attacks;
• Suitable for sick and weakened animals;
• Shelf life – 1 year from the date of production.

Flaws

• Not detected.

According to the instructions, GreenFort works for about 90 days, but in reality this period is somewhat longer.

Contraindications and negative consequences of use

Most flea collars have contraindications for use:

• Do not use on sick or weakened animals;
• do not combine with other insecticidal preparations;
• Take precautions when coming into contact with the collar.

When choosing an accessory for kittens, pregnant and lactating pets, you must choose special options marked “approved for use” or seek help from a veterinarian. When handling the collar, you must follow the instructions, as human skin is more sensitive to toxins than animal fur. It is important to avoid getting the product on the mucous membranes of the eyes, and ensure that children or other pets do not touch the collar. After contact with the product, you must wash your hands with soap.

Allergic reactions

The chemical composition with which the collar is treated can in some cases cause an allergic reaction. It all depends on the individual characteristics of the animal’s body. Therefore, when using the product for the first time, it is necessary to monitor the condition of the cat or dog. Symptoms of an allergic reaction:

• irritation on the skin;
• salivation;
• lacrimation;
• hair loss;
• sneezing;
• restless behavior.

If they appear, you must immediately stop using the collar and seek advice from a veterinarian.

The smell from the collar

Typically, the main disadvantage of flea collars is the unpleasant odor. However, among modern antiparasitic devices there are products with a pleasant smell or without it at all. Biocollars usually have a light, pleasant aroma of essential oils. A pungent odor should usually dissipate over time. If this does not happen and it causes discomfort to you and your pet, then it is better to choose a less odorous option.

Poisoning an animal with toxins

Regardless of the cost or quality of the collar, it can cause poisoning to your pet if a cat or dog suddenly licks, bites or chews it. First of all, it is necessary to identify the symptoms of poisoning:

• lethargy of the pet;
• refusal of food, thirst;
• increased salivation;
• diarrhea, nausea, vomiting;
• heavy breathing, dilated pupils.

Refusal to eat and severe thirst are one of the signs of animal poisoning.
In such cases, urgent consultation with a veterinarian is important. If possible, you should find instructions for the collar you are using: manufacturers indicate information about the antidote. This information will also help the veterinarian select the appropriate medication, since different collars contain different active ingredients in their composition.

You can provide first aid on your own, eliminating further ingress of toxins - remove the collar and wash off its residue from the fur. Cleaning the stomach with any medications for humans will also help: activated carbon dissolved in water (1 tablet per 1 kg) or other absorbent.

Which flea collar is best to buy?

This product is a strap or ribbon made of a special material with a microporous structure, impregnated with a special composition. For cats they sell models with shorter lengths, while dogs need options with larger sizes. It starts working immediately after opening the package. After the manufacturer's recommended service life has expired, it must be replaced.

The following recommendations will help you choose a particular product:

• For small breed dogs, you can choose the Foresto model with a length of 38 cm.
• Medium-sized dogs will need large-sized options, for example, RolfСlub 3D.
• Owners of a large pet should pay attention to the product.
• For puppies older than 4 months, it will not be a mistake to buy Celandine Maximum.
• Beaphar will kill fleas in cats older than 6 months.
• Bars AVZ is effective against larvae in all cat breeds.
• Ms.Kiss New will take care of the kittens, eliminating both larvae and adults.
• Pedigree cats respond well to the Apicenna Dana Ultra flea collar.
• Among the universal options for cats and dogs, we can recommend Insectal and GreenFort.

If your pet is heavily infested with insects, even the best flea collar may not be effective enough. Therefore, do not forget about the existence of special zoo shampoos and drops.