Frontline ingredients explained
Frontline is a spot-on flea and tick treatment applied to the skin, built around the active ingredient fipronil. We stock both Frontline Spot On and Frontline Plus for dogs and cats, and the difference between the two ranges comes down to one added ingredient rather than a completely different product.
What fipronil does
Fipronil is an insecticide that spreads across an animal's skin and coat via natural oils after a spot-on application, working on contact with fleas and ticks rather than needing to be ingested. It is the active ingredient behind the original Frontline Spot On range for both dogs and cats.
Frontline Plus adds a second ingredient, (S)-methoprene, an insect growth regulator that works on flea eggs and larvae in the environment around your pet rather than on the adult flea itself. Together the two ingredients target the flea at more than one stage of its life cycle, which is the practical difference between the Spot On and Plus ranges.
What we stock, and using it properly
We stock Frontline Spot On and Frontline Plus in pipette packs sized for dogs and separately for cats, since the two are not interchangeable — always use the product and pack made for your pet's species. Application amount and frequency are set out on the pack itself and should be followed exactly rather than estimated.
If your pet has a known skin condition, is pregnant or nursing, or you are treating a very young or very old animal, check with your vet before starting any flea treatment. And if you notice any reaction after applying it — unusual scratching, redness or a change in behaviour — stop and speak to your vet.
It is also worth keeping treated pets separate from each other for a short time after application, since fresh product can transfer between animals that groom one another or sleep pressed together, and letting it dry properly on the skin first avoids wasting the dose on a housemate instead.
From this brand
Everything below is in stock with us, priced with delivery worked out, and packed and posted by hand in the UK.
Reusable Washable Puppy Training Pad
A quilted, machine-washable training pad that absorbs accidents and locks in moisture with a leak-resistant base. Reusable for puppy toilet training and senior dogs, in several bone and paw prints.
From£7.99
Dog Calming Ear Muffs For Fireworks & Thunder
A soft stretchy snood that wraps snugly over your dog's head and ears to muffle fireworks, thunder and loud noises. Helps nervous dogs feel calmer during storms, travel and grooming.
£11.99
MPS Head Cover — Breathable Dog Head & Ear Protector
A comfortable, breathable alternative to the cone of shame — protects head and ear wounds or bandages while letting your dog move freely.
From£30.99
Leucillin Antiseptic Skincare Spray for Cats & Dogs
A versatile, alcohol-free antiseptic spray that cleans, soothes, and helps protect your pet's skin from bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
From£16.49
Pressure-Activated Pet Cooling Mat
Press down, feel the cool — this pressure-activated mat absorbs body heat and stays up to 10°C cooler than the room, with no freezing required.
From£34.99
Ice-Silk Cooling Dog Bed with Bolster Edge
A breathable ice-silk cooling bed with a soft bolster edge and a cool-touch centre panel that helps your dog stay comfortable through warm weather. No need to freeze or refrigerate, it cools naturally on contact.
From£12.99
Dog Front-Limb Mobility Wheelchair
An adjustable two-wheel walker that supports dogs with front-limb weakness or injury. The lightweight frame and padded supports restore mobility, helping your dog stay active, exercise and enjoy walks with confidence.
From£176.99
Plush Foam Pet Stairs
Soft foam steps with a plush, washable cover that help senior, small or short-legged pets reach the sofa or bed safely. The lightweight, sturdy build reduces jumping strain on ageing joints.
From£21.99
Real-Time GPS Pet Tracker
A compact GPS tracker that clips to most collars for real-time location, geofence alerts and find-me sound.
£29.99
Hooded Dinosaur Dog Raincoat
A waterproof hooded dog raincoat with a fun dinosaur spine and yellow fins. It features full-coverage legs, a reflective strip and a built-in D-ring for a lead, keeping smaller dogs dry and visible on wet walks.
From£29.99
Disposable Female Dog Nappies
Disposable, absorbent nappies for female dogs — a secure, leak-proof fit for seasons (heat), excitable urination and incontinence. Soft, breathable outer with easy hook-and-loop fastening. Sizes XXS to XL.
£8.99
Dog Sports Jacket For Medium & Large Breeds
A sleek zip-up sports jacket with full leg sleeves and reflective trim, designed to keep medium and large dogs warm and dry on cold-weather walks. Easy-fit and snug at the cuffs.
From£24.99
Common questions
- Is fipronil safe for both dogs and cats?
- Frontline makes separate products formulated for dogs and for cats, and it matters that you use the one made for your pet's species rather than assuming they are interchangeable. Check the pack before applying, and ask your vet if you are ever unsure.
- What is the difference between Frontline Spot On and Frontline Plus?
- Spot On contains fipronil alone, working on adult fleas and ticks on contact. Plus adds a second ingredient, (S)-methoprene, which also targets flea eggs and larvae, giving broader cover across the flea life cycle rather than just the adult stage.
- How often should Frontline be applied?
- Frequency is set out on the pack for the specific product and pack size you have, and it should be followed as instructed rather than estimated. Your vet can confirm the right schedule if your pet has a heavy flea burden or other health considerations.
- Can I use Frontline on a puppy or kitten?
- Frontline products state a minimum age and weight on the pack, and these vary by product. Check the packaging carefully before use on a young animal, and ask your vet if your puppy or kitten falls close to that limit.
Related
Written by Matt Garnett, who runs Giddy Pets and is a lifelong pet owner — not a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your animal. How we write these guides.