Frontline Plus for Cats vs Stronghold for Cats
A detailed comparison of Frontline Plus for Cats and Stronghold for Cats for cats. Which is the better choice? We compare ingredients, dosing, price, and side effects.
Frontline Plus for Cats
Monthly spot-on targeting fleas and ticks. A long-established, over-the-counter product.
Stronghold for Cats
Monthly prescription spot-on covering fleas, ear mites, and roundworm. Does not cover ticks in the standard version.
Save on Frontline Plus for Cats or Stronghold for Cats at a UK pharmacy
UK registered pharmacies dispense the same prescription medications as your vet, often for less. Ask your vet for a written prescription, then fill it online.
Affiliate links to The Pharm Pet Co., a UK registered veterinary pharmacy. We may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Always follow your vet's guidance on medication choice and dosing.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Frontline Plus for Cats | Stronghold for Cats |
|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Fipronil + (S)-Methoprene | Selamectin |
| Form | Spot-on pipette | Spot-on pipette |
| Frequency | Monthly | Monthly |
| Species | Cats | Cats |
| Price Range | £4–£9/month | £5–£11/month |
Key Differences
Parasite spectrum
Frontline covers ticks but not worms; Stronghold covers worms and ear mites but not ticks.
Prescription
Frontline is OTC; Stronghold requires a vet prescription.
Flea resistance
Fipronil (Frontline) has growing resistance; selamectin (Stronghold) is less affected.
Additional benefits
Stronghold treats ear mites and roundworm — useful extras for many cats.
Best for
Frontline for outdoor cats needing tick protection; Stronghold for indoor cats wanting worm + flea cover.
Pros & Cons
Frontline Plus for Cats
Pros
- Covers ticks as well as fleas
- No prescription needed
- Very affordable
- Kills flea eggs and larvae
Cons
- No worm coverage
- Growing flea resistance to fipronil
- No ear mite activity
- Greasy residue
Stronghold for Cats
Pros
- Covers roundworm and ear mites as well as fleas
- Selamectin has good safety profile
- Absorbed quickly — less greasy
- Also treats sarcoptic mange
Cons
- No tick coverage in standard version
- Prescription only
- More expensive than Frontline
- No tapeworm coverage
Compare Prices & Save
Both Frontline Plus for Cats and Stronghold for Cats may be cheaper from a licensed online retailer than from your vet. Ask for a written prescription and compare prices.
Important: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not veterinary advice. Always consult your vet before starting, stopping, or switching your pet's medication. Prices shown are typical UK ranges and may vary by product size, weight band, and retailer.
Alternative options to consider
Retailers we earn a commission from. It costs you nothing and never changes what we show.
Flea & Tick Treatments for Cats
Vet-strength feline flea and tick treatments. Stronghold, Advocate, Frontline and more, dispensed by UK pharmacists.
Pet Flea Treatments at Pharmacy2U
Frontline, Advantage and own-brand flea treatments at pharmacy prices. Trusted UK pharmacy since 1999.
VetBox Flea & Worm Protection for Cats
Vet-founded monthly parasite subscription. Flea, tick and worm protection delivered to your door. Founded by Dr Will Woodley, protecting 30,000+ pets.
We may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no extra cost to you.