1. 🕒 Why Start Prevention Early?

Fleas and ticks can affect even indoor kittens if brought in by humans or other pets. These pests can cause anemia, dermatitis, tapeworms, Bartonellosis (“cat scratch disease”), and more :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.

2. 🩺 Age & Weight Requirements

Most flea/tick preventatives are approved only for kittens aged 8 weeks or older and weighing at least 1.5–2 lb (0.7–0.9 kg); some require closer to 2 lb :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

For kittens younger or lighter than this, ensure all other pets are on prevention and keep the kitten indoors until ready :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

3. ✅ Safe Product Options

Products safe for kittens include:

• Capstar (nitenpyram): OTC tablet safe from 4 weeks/2 lb—kills active fleas fast but offers no long-term protection :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.
• Topical spot-ons: e.g. Frontline Plus or Advantage II Kitten, safe from 8 weeks/1.5–2 lb—protect fleas (and ticks in some) monthly :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
• Prescription combos: Revolution Plus, Bravecto, Credelio, Credelio Cat, Nexgard Combo—start at 8 weeks/2–2.8 lb depending on formula; protect fleas, ticks, mites, and some worms :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

**Never use dog products**—toxic to cats :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.

4. 🗓️ Start & Continue Year-Round

Start once your kitten meets age and weight criteria, then continue treatment year-round. Indoor heating allows flea life cycles to continue even in winter :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.

5. 👩‍⚕️ Talk to Your Vet

Your vet will check age, weight, health status, and regional parasite risk to recommend the best product and dosing. Many options require prescription—veterinary involvement ensures safety and compliance :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.

6. 🧰 Environmental & Physical Checks

Supplement product use with:

• Regular combing (check & drown fleas in soapy water) :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
• Home cleaning: vacuum, wash bedding weekly :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
• Yard care: landscaping to reduce ticks :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.

7. 🩹 Monitoring & Safety

• Watch for side effects: skin irritation, GI upset, neurologic signs—report to your vet :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.
• Keep kittens separated from other treated pets until spot-ons dry (4 hours) :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.
• Regularly check the coat for ticks and fleas, especially after outdoor exposure :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.

8. 🐾 Ask A Vet Support

Need help choosing a product, monitoring dosing, or spotting reactions? Ask A Vet offers 24/7 video consults via our app—get professional guidance anytime 📱.

Download at AskAVet.com—the expert support your kitten deserves! 💬✨

9. ✅ Final Takeaway

Start flea and tick prevention at 8 weeks & 1.5–2 lb, use cat-approved products, protect year-round, clean the environment, and consult your vet. This ensures safety, health, and comfort for your kitten throughout 2025 and beyond. 🛡️🐱