Is Hartz Ultraguard Safe For Cats? Everything You Should Know
Fleas and ticks can be a pain–using Hartz Ultraguard can keep this pests away, but is it safe for your cat?
Fleas and ticks are nothing but a nuisance and they pose a great risk to your fur buddy. not only does it cause discomfort for your cat, but it also transmits diseases; making it paramount to prevent or dislodge these parasites.
A great product that is effective in dislodging fleas and ticks from your home is Harts Ultragard, which offers multiple solutions that can eradicate these pests. However, you might be asking the question ” Is Hartz Ultraguard safe for cats? This article will provide a comprehensive guide that will take you through everything you need to know regarding Hartz Ultraguard and cats.
Table of Contents
- What is Hartz Ultraguard and how does it work?
- Is Hartz Ultraguard Safe For Cats?
- Neurological symptoms
- Factors that will contribute to a negative effect of Hartz Ultraguard
- Alternatives to Hartz Ultraguard for Cats
- Is Hartz Ultraguard Toxic to Cats? Final Thoughts
What is Hartz Ultraguard and how does it work?
A female flea can lay up to 50 eggs daily and in its lifetime(2 months), it can lay up to 2000 eggs. So, in just 30 days, 15 female fleas can lay up to 250,000 eggs. Now, this is where Hartz Ultraguard steps in, Hartz is a topical solution developed to kill these eggs and pupas that have developed into adults, preventing a future infestation.
Hartz Ultraguard doesn’t only provide topical solutions like shampoos, ointments, and drops, it also has a collar option. So, if your cat hates to be brushed or bath, or if your cat hates to put on a collar, there are multiple solutions that could perfectly fit your cat or kitten.
Hartz Ultraguard collars begin to kill fleas and ticks in as little as 15 minutes after application, repel mosquitoes, and can effectively prevent eggs from hatching for seven months. While the spray and drops usually require a re-do every 4 or 6 weeks.
Is Hartz Ultraguard Safe For Cats?
Yes! Hartz Ultraguard is safe for cats and effectively kills and prevents the hatching of flea eggs. However, different felines may have different reactions to Hartz Ultraguard fleas and ticks for cats.
Generally, the US Food and Drugs Administration warns about the possible neurological issues that arise from most brands of flea and tick treatments for cats; especially the cheap store-bought ones. These neurological issues include seizures, loss of full body control of movement( ataxia), and muscle tremors.
I have used Hartz safely on my ragdoll cat, but your cat may react differently as a result of underlying health issues, or your mode of application, Below are some common side effects reported with the use of Harts Ultraguard for cats.
Skin Irritation
Just as with most other flea and tick prevention products, some cats will usually experience skin irritation if you use Hartz Ultraguard on them. These skin irritations may comprise redness, hair loss at the site where you applied the ointment or itching.
On noticing any of these symptoms, don’t panic! The best you can do is to monitor your fur buddy and speak to your vet if you notice anything abnormal, most times when there is a negative reaction, it is best to discontinue the product.
Gastrointestinal upset
Although this rarely happens, your cat may ingest some Hartz, especially when they groom themselves after application and this could lead to GI upset which includes diarrhea or vomiting.
Keep an eye on your cat each time you apply this product, and ensure your cat doesn’t groom the area you treated until the product is completely absorbed.
Neurological symptoms
Some active ingredients such as Etofenprox or Tetrachlorvinphos(TCVP) may cause your cat to experience neurological symptoms such as muscle weakness, difficulty walking, or tremors. Don’t hesitate to call your vet for even a second, if you notice any of these symptoms.
Seizures
In a handful of reports, exposure to Hartz Ultraguard flea and ticks topical solutions has been associated with seizures in cats. if your cat experiences a seizure after the application, stay calm and contact your vet immediately. They will guide you on the next step to follow, and they will help you determine if the product was the culprit of the seizures.
Death
None of us would like to see our cats die, even in old age. But death has been reported with the use of many flea and tick products as a result of permethrin poisoning. I have read a few forums which have a few users stating that Hartz Ultraguard killed their pet, but after quizzing them further, I discovered they used the products meant for dogs on cats or they unknowingly gave an overdose. It is always important to follow instructions or have an expert do these jobs.
Factors that will contribute to a negative effect of Hartz Ultraguard
Overdose or Wrong application: Wrong application or the use of too much of Hartz will increase the risk of your feline friend experiencing the side effects. Follow directions on the pack, or have your vet show you how to administer the product.
Your Cat’s age, size, and health: Side effects can take place with the age, size, and health state of your fur buddy playing a big role. little kittens, old cats, or cats with underlying health conditions will experience more side effects. Your vet should decide the product you use- when your cat falls into any of the three categories above.
Alternatives to Hartz Ultraguard for Cats
If you’re unsure about the usage of Hartz Ultraguard, don’t worry! There are multiple alternatives that are effective in eliminating fleas and ticks. Let’s explore these options below.
Oral Medications
Your vet may recommend that you use prescription oral drugs for eliminating or preventing fleas and ticks. These drugs can be Bravecto or Comfortis and they are administered once a month and can pack a punch. Their modus operandi is to enter your feline’s bloodstream, so when an unfortunate flea or tick bites your cat, it gets to ingest the medication and dies. Your vet should decide if these medications are safe for your kitty.
Regular Grooming
Grooming your cat regularly is a very effective way of preventing the infestation of fleas and ticks on your cat. Brushing your cat as frequently as their coat type permits don’t only help maintain its coat and reduce shedding, but it also gives you the edge on inspecting your cat’s coat for any sign of fleas and ticks infestation. A flea comb will help dislodge fleas if any.
Keeping Your Home Clean
The best way of keeping your cat free from all these pesky invaders is to keep your home and garden clean. Regularly vacuum your home, wash your cat’s bedding, and always work on your yard and garden to prevent these parasites from gaining ground. Using pet-safe flea and tick control products can also be effective in keeping your house flea and ticks free.
Other Topical treatments and Essential oils
Revolution and Advantage Multi are other safe and effective topical flea ointments. They can be applied directly to your cat’s coat. They are effective not only against fleas and ticks but also against heartworms and ear mites.
Some essential oil can serve as a natural repellent for fleas and ticks. However, it is pivotal to do due diligence or consult with your doctor before using them around your cat, as some essential oils like cedarwood can be toxic to cats.
Is Hartz Ultraguard Toxic to Cats? Final Thoughts
No, Hartz Ultraguard will only be unsafe for your cat if you applied it wrong or if your cat is having an underlying illness that reacts to the application of Hartz Ultraguard.
If used properly, Hartz Ultraguard is effective in eliminating fleas and ticks from your cat’s body. The best way to ensure your cat never has to battle infestations of parasites is to groom your cats regularly and ensure your home is always in a clean condition.
