Catalina asked 5 years ago
Hi, I kept my cat happy using Revolution for about 14 years. Last few years it seems to have “stopped working.” Vet advised me to try other products and so I used finilopril and Advantage II. Based on flea-combing results, these didn’t work either (except for the 1st application of Advantage II.) I applied Bravecto for the first time 3 days ago and she was flea free last night (combed off only one dead flea). I live on the Gulf Coast in Texas. She has limited access to the back yard and there is urban wildlife out there, of course. Also, I admit I quit applying Revolution regularly in later years, waiting for spring and evidence of fleas on her before resuming treatment. My neighbor with several cats does the same, but claims her cats don’t have fleas (now). Lots of variables here, I know, but this has all been the case for many years. My basic question to you is: is it possible fleas have developed resistance to the older medications?
Adam Retzer Staff answered 5 years ago
Catalina,
It is possible that fleas are developing resistance, but is unlikely based on the results of current studies. Modern flea control compounds are regularly tested for resistance. Here is a review of insecticide resistance is fleas done in 2016. The PDF is available on the site.
Here is an article I’ve written about why flea control can fail, just in case any of the information is useful to people who view this answer.
Warm regards,
Adam
