Significant Differences Between Formulas

• When comparing the labels and directions of Advantage and Frontline flea products, the differences are tough to spot. But, as with many competing products within a single medical category, these two products have distinctly different active ingredients; Advantage contains Imidacloprid, whereas Frontline contains Fipronil and S-methoprene. Although the active ingredients are different, the results they produce in feline flea protection are strikingly similar.
  
  A more noticeable and substantial difference between the two products is that Frontline also protects cats against ticks, while Advantage offers no such protection. Therefore, it stands to reason that the two products will not yield identical results, particularly when used on cats in tick-prone areas.
  
  

Minor Differences Between Formulas

• Advantage is available for purchase in four packs, six packs and as single doses. Frontline is available in three packs, six packs and single doses.
  
  Prices on these products vary depending on where they are purchased and whether any sales, specials or discounts apply, but they are generally priced similarly.
  
  

Identical Features

• Both products are available at veterinarian offices, pet stores and through online sellers. Both also have different formulas for cats of different sizes.
  
  The application method for both products is identical: single-use tubes are to be applied directly to the cat's skin on the back of its neck. Monthly applications are recommended for both Advantage and Frontline. The warning labels of both products state that they are safe for kittens 8 weeks old and older.
  
  The method of drug absorption and delivery is identical for both products; the drug is absorbed into the hair follicles, and fleas die upon contact with the treated hair rather than only after they bite the cat.