Flea Control

Question
Our family includes six happy, healthy ferrets (three males and three females).  All are in great shape, and we'd like to make sure they stay that way!  To that end, I am trying to figure out the best flea control product to use on the fuzzies.  Living in Alabama means that flea control is a year round issue for us, and our dogs and cats are all treated with Frontline TopSpot.  Until recently, that's also what we were using for the ferrets.  However, it's time for their next monthly dose, and I'm concerned that Frontline may no longer be the best choice for the ferrets.  I seem to recall recently reading that they have changed their formula, and it may no longer be safe for off-label ferret use.  BUT, for the life of me I can't track down the original source of my concern about Frontline's safety, and now I'm a bit unsure of what to use.   Of course, the Frontline folks can't help much, since it would be an off-label use for ferrets and for liability reasons they can't really say it's safe.

DO you have any recommendations for a very good, topical spot product for treating ferrets?  Fleas are a real problem down here (especially right now), and I want something that works well, but won't be a danger to the ferrets.  Also, I'm having a doozie of a time finding dosage recommendations for the flea treatments, so any guidance you can offer there would be a big help!!

Thank you so much for your help!

Answer
Hi Kristin:

Wow, you have a nice big ferret family!  To be honest with you, I live in the desert and have never had a flea problem, so I couldn't really recommend any flea product.

My best recommendation would be for you to check with your ferret vet and ask his/her recommendation.  The vet should be the most familiar with the various chemicals used in flea control products and which ones would be safe, yet effective, for your little carpet sharks.

This question is just too important, since we're talking about using toxic substances on your little ones, only your vet should be trusted to recommend which flea treatment is SAFE and will be most effective in your area.

Sincerely,

Jacquie Rodgers

Sincerely,

Jacquie Rodgers