Differences between Advantix and Frontline
Advantix vs. Frontline[edit]
Advantix (specifically K9 Advantix II) and Frontline (such as Frontline Plus) are both topical treatments used to protect dogs from fleas and ticks. While both are applied monthly, they differ in their active ingredients, the range of pests they affect, and their suitability for use in households with other animals.[1][2]
K9 Advantix II is formulated for dogs and contains imidacloprid, permethrin, and pyriproxyfen.[3][4] This combination kills fleas, ticks, lice, and mosquitoes, and also repels biting flies.[5] The inclusion of permethrin provides a repellent effect, which can prevent some pests from biting in the first place. However, permethrin is highly toxic to cats.[3] Consequently, K9 Advantix II should not be used on cats, and treated dogs should be separated from cats for a period after application to prevent accidental exposure.
Frontline Plus for dogs contains fipronil and (S)-methoprene. These ingredients work to kill adult fleas and ticks, and the (S)-methoprene acts as an insect growth regulator to stop flea eggs and larvae from developing. Frontline products are available in separate formulations for dogs and cats. While the dog formulation should not be used on cats, the brand offers a feline-specific product. Unlike Advantix, Frontline Plus does not repel mosquitoes or biting flies.[2]
Both treatments are waterproof. K9 Advantix II becomes waterproof 24 hours after application. Frontline Plus is also considered waterproof, with recommendations to avoid bathing the pet for 24 to 48 hours after application to ensure effectiveness.
Comparison Table[edit]
| Category | Advantix (K9 Advantix II) | Frontline (Frontline Plus) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Active Ingredients | Imidacloprid, Permethrin, Pyriproxyfen[3] | Fipronil, (S)-methoprene |
| Mechanism of Action | Kills fleas, ticks, and other pests on contact; permethrin provides a repellent effect.[5] | Kills adult fleas and ticks and prevents the development of flea eggs and larvae. |
| Target Pests | Kills fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, lice, and repels biting flies.[5][4] | Kills adult fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, ticks, and chewing lice. |
| Repels Pests | Yes, repels ticks, mosquitoes, and biting flies. | No |
| Time to Effectiveness | Starts killing fleas within 12 hours.[4] | Kills fleas within 24 hours and ticks within 48 hours. |
| Waterproof | Yes, after 24 hours.[3] | Yes, after 24-48 hours. |
| Use on Cats | No, toxic to cats due to permethrin. | A separate formulation is available for cats. |
References[edit]
- ↑ "petbucket.com". Retrieved November 03, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "petcarerx.com". Retrieved November 03, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 "webmd.com". Retrieved November 03, 2025.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 "vcahospitals.com". Retrieved November 03, 2025.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "petcarerx.com". Retrieved November 03, 2025.
