Advantage II for Dogs & Cats: Effective Flea & Lice Protection

Keep your pets safe and comfortable with Advantage II, available at Ren's Pets. This advanced topical solution provides fast-acting protection against fleas and lice without the need for parasites to bite your pet. By targeting adult fleas, larvae, and eggs, Advantage II effectively breaks the flea life cycle to prevent infestations in your home.

How to apply Advantage II?

Applying the treatment is quick and straightforward since each dose comes in a small, pre-measured pipette. It is essential to use the specific formula and dosage that matches your pet’s species and weight to ensure both safety and effectiveness. To get the best results and ensure your pet's comfort, simply follow these steps: 

1. Check the dose: Make sure you have the correct formula specifically for your pet and that it matches its current weight. 
2. Prepare the spot: Part the fur on the back of your dog or cat. For cats, aim for the base of the skull, and for dogs, focus between the shoulder blades until you can see the skin. 
3. Apply directly: Place the tip of the tube against the skin and squeeze firmly to apply the entire contents. Apply the liquid in one or several spots along the spine where they cannot reach to lick it off. 
4. Let it settle: Allow the product to dry naturally on the skin. Avoid rubbing the liquid into the fur because the formula needs to bond with the natural oils of your dear friend to spread effectively. 

Why choose Advantage II for your pet’s flea prevention?

We know how annoying it is to see your dog or cat dealing with the discomfort of fleas. These parasites are more than just a nuisance. They can lead to painful skin irritations and even allergic dermatitis, and they don’t just stay on your pet. They can quickly migrate to your carpets and furniture, causing widespread infestation in your home. 

Advantage II offers a smarter way to protect your family members. This formula provides fast-acting relief by eliminating fleas on contact, which means they don't have to bite your pet to be neutralized. By targeting adult fleas along with their eggs and larvae, it effectively halts the reproduction cycle before it can even start. It’s a reliable way to keep your companions comfortable and your home protected. 

Find out everything you need to know about Advantage II for dogs and cats

Choosing the right flea treatment naturally raises questions. To help you make the best choice, our experts have compiled the most frequently asked questions we receive from pet owners about Elanco solutions, including Advantage II. Whether you are looking for advice on application or safety, we are here to help you feel confident about protecting your pet. If you need more personalized advice, feel free to visit us in store to chat with a Ren's Pets advisor!  

What is Advantage II and how does it work?

Advantage II is a monthly topical treatment specifically designed to neutralize fleas and lice on both dogs and cats through simple contact. Unlike some oral medications that must be ingested, this formula is not absorbed into your pet’s bloodstream. Instead, it binds to the natural oils of their skin and coat to eliminate parasites before they even have a chance to bite. 

This treatment is highly effective because it targets fleas at every stage. Within 12 hours of application, it begins killing adult fleas while simultaneously destroying eggs and larvae. 

Is Advantage II safe for my dog and cat?

Advantage II is a trusted and safe choice for both your dog and cat when used according to the label instructions. As a topical treatment, it is designed to stay on the surface of the skin rather than being absorbed into the bloodstream, providing effective external protection. 

As your local pet shop experts, we want to remind you to never use a flea treatment for dogs on a cat, whether it is an Elanco product or any other brand. The active ingredients are carefully balanced for each animal and the canine version can be toxic to cats, so be sure to use a specific flea treatment for cats to keep every pet in your home safe. 

If your dog and cat share a home, we recommend keeping them separated for a few hours after application. This ensures the product dries completely and prevents them from accidentally grooming each other. 

What if my dog and cat lick the product or show side effects? 

It is quite common for a dog and cat to try to groom themselves right after application. Because the formula has a bitter taste, your pet might salivate or drool if they manage to lick the treatment area. We recommend washing his mouth with water if this is the case. If he has licked a large amount of the product, it is best to contact your vet. 

While most animals tolerate the treatment very well, some may experience minor side effects. You may notice redness, temporary itching or a slight change in coat texture at the application site. These symptoms are usually mild and disappear on their own. However, if you notice more serious signs, such as persistent lethargy or heavy panting in your dog or cat, we advise you to contact your vet immediately as a precaution.

How fast does Advantage II work and how long does it last? 

Advantage II begins killing fleas within 12 hours of application. Since it works on contact, it neutralizes pests before they even bite your dog and cat, providing fast relief from itching. 

A single dose protects your pet for a full 30 days. To keep your dog and cat safe and break the flea life cycle for good, it is best to apply the treatment monthly throughout the year.

Is Advantage II waterproof for my dog and cat? 

Yes, Advantage II is waterproof, meaning your dog and cat stay protected even if they get wet. The formula is designed to bond with the skin and remain effective after swimming or bathing. However, we recommend waiting 24 hours after application before letting your pet in the water to ensure the treatment is fully set. 

Choosing the right protection: Advantage II vs. K9 Advantix II for dogs 

While both are trusted treatments from Elanco, they offer different levels of protection depending on your pet's lifestyle. It is important to remember that while Advantage II is available for both your dog and cat, K9 Advantix II is formulated exclusively for canines and must never be used on felines. 

You can review their specific differences below to make the best decision for your dog.

Learn more about fleas and ticks to protect your dog

If you would like to learn more about fleas and ticks, discover our top tips for effectively preventing and treating these parasites in your pet.