8 Best Flea and Tick Medications for Cats in 2025, Recommended by Vets
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All products in this article have been reviewed by our trusted vets and experts. PetMD is owned by Chewy.
Fleas and ticks are problematic parasites for cats, carrying illnesses such as Lyme disease, babesiosis, flea allergy dermatitis, and others. Even indoor-only cats can be exposed to these bloodsuckers, as fleas and ticks can infiltrate your home by catching a ride on your clothes, shoes, or other items that have been outside.
Because of the risks these parasites pose to our felines, keeping up with flea and tick prevention is a must for pet parents.
Our panel of veterinarians rounded up their top choices for the best flea and tick medications for cats based on their own clinical observations, effectiveness of the product on cats, safety, and other contributing factors.
What To Consider When Choosing a Flea and Tick Medication for Cats
There are a number of things to consider when selecting flea and tick medicine for cats, including:
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Your veterinarian’s input. Always consult your veterinarian when selecting a new flea and tick treatment for cats. They can recommend products specific to your individual pet’s needs.
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Coverage needs. What parasites are concerning you and your veterinarian? Some flea and tick medicines for cats protect against only fleas, while others cover fleas, ticks, and other parasites, such as heartworms.
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Type of administration. Consider your pet’s preferences. Some cats do better with topical medications, while others take pills easily.
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Length of coverage. How often are you comfortable giving medications? Most flea and tick medicine for cats must be administered monthly, but some last longer.
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Your budget. This will be a recurring purchase, so choose a product that fits within your budget.
How We Selected the Best Flea and Tick Medication for Cats
This list of the best flea and tick medications for cats was meticulously curated by a panel of veterinarians who are employed by Chewy, the publisher of PetMD.
They were asked to choose the best flea and tick treatments for cats in their honest opinion, across multiple categories, based on the following:
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Their knowledge and practical experience
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A review of information published by the manufacturers
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Attributes such as spectrum and length of coverage, ease of application, and price
Opinions and product recommendations in this article belong solely to the review panel of animal health experts. Manufacturers and vendors cannot buy placement in Vet Verified content or exert influence on our panelists as they evaluate products.
Our sole goal with this program is to provide pet parents with the information they need to make the best decisions for their pets.
Flea and Tick Medications for Cats FAQs
Q: What is the most effective flea and tick treatment for cats?
A: The most effective flea and tick treatment for cats depends on the individual pet. Almost all cats, including indoor-only cats, should be on a year-round flea and tick preventive. Some pets do better with topical medications, while oral medications are preferable for others.
Q: How do I apply flea and tick treatment to my cat?
A: How to apply the cat flea and tick treatment will depend on the treatment itself. Topical flea and tick treatments should be applied at the base of your cat’s head, between the shoulders. Part the fur and apply the full dose of medication directly on the skin, without rubbing it in.
Flea collars simply need to be attached around the cat’s neck, allowing for two fingers’ width between the collar and the neck. Pills and chewables are given orally.
Q: Do indoor cats need flea medicine?
A: Yes, indoor cats need flea medicine. Even if your cat does not go outside, they can be exposed to fleas brought into the house on other pets or clothing. Additionally, they could be exposed to fleas at the veterinarian or groomer.
