If the homeowner treats the pet, spot-ons, powders or dusts are preferred over sprays. Put on rubber gloves and apply the product thoroughly into the hair coat according to label directions. Cats are more susceptible than dogs to toxic effects of many insecticides since they groom themselves. Flea collars cannot always be relied upon to bring existing infestations under control. Collars do not kill existing premise infestations.
Some animals are sensitive or allergic to collars.
Watch for signs of dermatitis on the neck under the collar. Amitraz collars labeled for dogs only are effective on ticks. Indoors - Automatic aerosol foggers, available in a canister, will give good knockdown and kill many biting adult fleas. Water-based sprays are generally used for treating all carpeting and upholstered furniture. Since there is no flea resistance to borates, many homeowners try switching to boric acid and disodium octaborate tetrahydrate.