Frequently Asked Questions for Cats

  • Are Hartz UltraGuard® and Hartz® Pet Defender Plus™ products registered?

    Yes, all Hartz UltraGuard® and Hartz® Pet Defender Plus™ products are registered with the EPA and the states, data has been provided for both efficacy and safety as required.

  • What is the difference between the Delectables™ 10+ years and Delectables™ 15+ years?

    The difference between the 10+ and 15+ is the 15+ has added Potassium Chloride for Kidney Health Support and Prebiotics to help support healthy digestion. All other ingredients in the formulation are the same.

  • Can Delectables™ be refrigerated?

    Since these are not re-sealable pouches, we recommend feeding the complete pouch once opened. Unopened packages do not need to be refrigerated.

  • Can Delectables™ be used as a primary diet?

    No, Delectables™ should be fed as a treat only. It is intended for intermittent and supplemental feeding only.

  • What are the feeding directions for Delectables™?

    You can feed your cat Delectables™ up to 2 pouches per day for an average size adult cat. Squeeze Up™ treats can be fed to your cat up to 3 tubes per day for an average size adult cat.

  • Where are Delectables™ made?

    Delectables™ are produced in Thailand. This location has the richest source of Tuna.

  • Where are Delectables™ sold?

    To find out where Delectables™ are sold, first click on our Cats Products Treats page. Then click on the View Product button for the product you are interested in. Next, click on the orange "Where to Buy" button.

  • What is the nutritional information of Delectables™?

    Ingredients and calorie content can be found on the back of each pack. This can also be found on each product page at the following web page.

  • What is the best if used by date of Delectables™?

    You can find a best if used by date listed on the back of every package.

  • Are Hartz UltraGuard® and Hartz® Pet Defender Plus™ products registered?

    Yes, all Hartz UltraGuard® and Hartz® Pet Defender Plus™ products are registered with the EPA and the states, data has been provided for both efficacy and safety as required.

  • Where can I buy Hartz UltraGuard® and Hartz® Pet Defender Plus™ products?

    Hartz UltraGuard® and Hartz® Pet Defender Plus™ products can be found in grocery stores, supercenters, mass retailers, online, etc. You can check where your favorite product is sold using our Where To Buy feature.

  • What is the benefit of Hartz Pet Defender?

    Hartz Pet Defender utilizes the same active ingredients as Frontline Plus but at a more affordable price. This product has been proven to kill fleas and ticks including the tick species that transmits Lyme disease.

  • How long does a Hartz UltraGuard® Flea and Tick topical or Hartz® Pet Defender Plus™ work for?

    One tube/application of Hartz UltraGuard® or Hartz® Pet Defender Plus™ Topicals provides one month of protection.

  • How long does a Hartz UltraGuard® Flea and Tick Collar work for?

    Hartz UltraGuard® Collars provide up to seven months of protection against fleas and ticks.

  • Can I stop using flea control once the fleas are gone?

    This is not recommended. Once an infestation is under control it is important to continue using a flea and tick control product to prevent re-infestations in the future. Although adult fleas are not seen on the animal, the sub-adult stages (eggs, larvae, pupae) may be developing within the house (carpet, upholstery). To ensure full protection against all life stages of fleas Hartz recommends treating all affected areas of your pet’s surroundings.

  • How does my cat get ticks?

    Typically, cats are most susceptible to ticks while outside. Ticks are found anywhere they can quest for a host on blades of grass or vegetation. Even indoor cats are susceptible to ticks that are brought into the home by pets and humans so it is important to do regular body checks after spending time in a high risk area.

  • Should I use Hartz UltraGuard® on my pet all year round? Or just during flea and tick season?

    The Companion Animal Safety Council recommends that pets should be treated year round with a flea and tick product. Fleas and ticks may be dormant during freezing winter months but can still be active on days above freezing temperatures. These parasites utilize leaf litter and even snow to provide insulation in the extreme cold.

  • Can I use this if my pet is on medication?

    Always consult with a veterinarian before applying flea and tick treatment to a sick or debilitated cat.

  • Does Hartz UltraGuard® have an expiration date?

    An expiration date is not required on Hartz UltraGuard® products. However, Hartz has established a shelf life for all UltraGuard® products to ensure a quality product.

  • Do fleas and ticks have to bite my pet for Hartz UltraGuard® to work?

    No. Hartz UltraGuard® Topicals and Collars evenly distribute protection over your pet’s body killing or repelling the parasites before they have a chance to bite.

  • How long does it take for Hartz UltraGuard® to kill fleas?

    Hartz UltraGuard® Topicals start killing fleas within 15 minutes after application and continues to kill for 30 days.

  • How does Hartz UltraGuard® kill fleas and ticks?

    Hartz UltraGuard® contains EPA registered insecticides that have been proven to control fleas and ticks. These insecticides have been specifically formulated to provide protection across the entire body of the pet for the duration indicated for each product. Example: One month for topicals, seven months for collars.

  • Can I use Hartz UltraGuard® if I have already applied another flea and tick control product?

    Always read the label directions, typically only one flea and tick product should be used on your pet at a time. Using multiple flea and tick products at the same time may result in interaction which could cause illness or irritation. (Consult a veterinarian about the use of heartworm medication)

  • Can I use flea and tick products for cats on my dog?

    NO, flea & tick products labeled for cats must only be used on cats. Likewise, flea and tick products labeled for dogs should not be used on cats. This ensures safe and effective flea & tick treatment since products are specifically formulated for cats or dogs .

  • What is the difference between a topical and collar product?

    A topical is a monthly dose of liquid flea & tick product applied to the back of the cat’s neck , while the Hartz collar is a solid plastic band that is fastened around the pet’s neck and provides up to seven months protection against fleas & ticks. Both products require registration by the US EPA . Product registration includes a full toxicology and efficacy profile which is reviewed prior to approval by the authorities and determines the labeling.

  • Can Hartz UltraGuard® collars for cats be used alongside identification collars?

    Yes, Hartz UltraGuard® collars can be used with any regular cat collar.

  • Are Hartz UltraGuard® products registered?

    Yes, all Hartz UltraGuard® products are registered with the EPA and the states, data has been provided for both efficacy and safety as required.

  • Where can I buy Hartz UltraGuard® products?

    Hartz UltraGuard® products can be found in grocery stores, supercenters, mass retailers, online, etc. You can check where your favorite product is sold using our Where To Buy feature.

  • How long does a Hartz UltraGuard® Flea and Tick topical work for?

    One tube/application of Hartz UltraGuard® Topicals provides one month of protection.

  • How long does a Hartz UltraGuard® Flea and Tick Collar work for?

    Hartz UltraGuard® Collars provide up to seven months of protection against fleas and ticks.

  • Can I stop using flea control once the fleas are gone?

    This is not recommended. Once an infestation is under control it is important to continue using a flea and tick control product to prevent re-infestations in the future. Although adult fleas are not seen on the animal, the sub-adult stages (eggs, larvae, pupae) may be developing within the house (carpet, upholstery). To ensure full protection against all life stages of fleas Hartz recommends treating all affected areas of your pet’s surroundings.

  • How does my dog get ticks?

    Typically, dogs are most susceptible to ticks while outside. Ticks are found in yards, dog parks, hiking trails and anywhere they can quest for a host on blades of grass or vegetation. Ticks can be brought into the home by pets and humans, so it is important to do regular body checks after spending time in a high risk area.

  • Should I use Hartz UltraGuard® on my pet all year round? Or just during flea and tick season?

    The Companion Animal Safety Council recommends that pets should be treated year round with a flea and tick product. Fleas and ticks may be dormant during freezing winter months but can still be active on days above freezing temperatures. These parasites utilize leaf litter and even snow to provide insulation in the extreme cold.

  • Can I use this if my pet is on medication?

    Always consult with a veterinarian before applying flea and tick treatment to a sick, nursing or debilitated dog.

  • Do fleas and ticks have to bite my pet for Hartz UltraGuard® and Hartz® Pet Defender Plus™ to work?

    No. Hartz UltraGuard® Topicals and Collars evenly distribute protection over your pet’s body killing or repelling the parasites before they have a chance to bite.

  • How long does it take for Hartz UltraGuard® Topicals to kill fleas?

    Hartz UltraGuard® Topicals start killing fleas within 15 minutes after application and continues to kill for one month.

  • How does Hartz UltraGuard® kill fleas and ticks?

    Hartz UltraGuard® contains EPA registered insecticides that have been proven to control fleas and ticks. These insecticides have been specifically formulated to provide protection across the entire body of the pet for the duration indicated for each product.

    Example: Protection is one month for topicals and seven months for collars.

  • Can I use Hartz UltraGuard® if I have already applied another flea and tick control product?

    Always read the label directions; typically only one flea and tick product should be used on your pet at a time. Using multiple flea and tick products at the same time may result in interaction which could cause illness or irritation. (A heartworm product can be used but you should consult your veterinarian)

  • How long after application can my pet be bathed or go swimming?

    Your pet should not be bathed 48 hours both pre and post application.

  • Can I use flea and tick products for dogs on my cat?

    NO, flea & tick products labeled for dogs must only be used on dogs. Likewise, flea and tick products labeled for cats should not be used on dogs. This ensures safe and effective flea & tick treatment since products are specifically formulated for cats or dogs.

  • What is an insect growth regulator?

    An insect growth regulator (commonly referred to as an IGR) is a substance which interferes with the immature development of an insect; therefore, they never reach maturity, cannot multiply thus eliminating infestation.

  • Are Hartz UltraGuard® Flea and Tick Collars waterproof?

    All Hartz UltraGuard® Flea & Tick Collars are water resistant and can remain on your pet while swimming or in the rain.

  • What is the difference between a topical and collar product?

    A topical is a monthly dose of liquid flea & tick product applied to the dog’s neck and/or back , while the Hartz collar is a solid plastic band that is fastened around the pet’s neck and provides up to seven months protection against fleas & ticks. Both products require registration by the US EPA . Product registration includes a full toxicology and efficacy profile which is reviewed prior to approval by the authorities and determines the labeling for the product.

  • What age should my cat be to be given a toy?

    Toys can be given to pets as soon as they show interest in playing (usually about 4-6 weeks old) and toys can help build coordination and motor skills in young pets.

  • Can I order cat toys from your website?

    Hartz is a manufacturer and does not sell directly to consumers. Our website was designed for informational purposes.

  • Where can I buy Hartz cat toys?

    Our toys are available in supermarkets, large retail stores and online, among other locations. You can find your cat’s favorite toys by clicking the “where to buy” button on the product detail page on our website.

  • How often can I give my cat Silver Vine?

    It is recommended to offer your feline a Silver Vine toy twice a week to keep your cat interested and stimulated. It is also recommended to keep Silver Vine toys stored while not in use to help preserve the effectiveness of the Silver Vine.

  • Why should I give my cat toys with Silver Vine if catnip is working just fine?

    It is a fun alternative to Catnip especially for cats that do not react to Catnip or have grown bored with it. Introducing Silver Vine is a great way to add variety and excitement to your feline’s life.

  • How do cats respond to Silver Vine?

    Similar to Catnip, Silver Vine brings euphoric feelings to cats, but more effectively. Typical behaviors include rolling, licking, rubbing, staring, purring and meowing, and generally acting playful-- followed by a period of relaxation.

  • Is Silver Vine safe for my cat?

    Silver Vine is nontoxic, non addictive, and 100% natural. Although it is safe, it is still recommended to supervise your feline when playing with toys that contain Silver Vine.

  • What is Silver Vine?

    Silver Vine is an alternative to Catnip, and has been used as an effective cat attractant in Japan and China for many years. The vine grows in the high, mountainous regions of eastern Asia. Silver Vine can be found in cat toys.

  • Is it safe to clean a litter box if I am pregnant?

    Cat feces may contain a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, a potential health concern for pregnant women and immunosuppressed individuals. Care should be exercised when cleaning the litter box, including thoroughly washing hands afterwards. At-risk individuals should seek advice from their physicians for more information.

  • Is Hartz® Multi-Cat Strong™ Clumping Paper Litter recyclable?

    No. Although 80% of the actual litter product is made of recycled paper, the litter is not recyclable.

  • Is Hartz® Multi-Cat Strong™ Clumping Paper Litter flushable?

    Hartz® Multi-Cat Strong™ Clumping Paper Litter is not flushable. Do not flush litter in toilets or dispose in gutters or storm drains.

  • How does Hartz® Nodor® Cat Litter Spray work?

    Hartz® Nodor® Cat Litter Spray uses breakthrough encapsulating technology to surround cat urine odor molecules and permanently stop them from causing odor. It was specifically designed to eliminate cat urine odors in and around the litter box.

  • How do you know if a cat is going have an allergic reaction to a topical flea and tick product?

    Unfortunately, this is not an easy question to answer. Your cat can have a reaction to the first exposure to a product, to a later application of the product, or never. While reactions to topical drops are rare, they might result in mild skin irritation. It is important to observe your pet for the first 24 hours and contact your veterinarian if you note any abnormal reactions.

  • Can an indoor cat get fleas?

    Yes, indoor cats can also get fleas. It is very easy for a flea to hitch a ride on your clothing, bottom of shoes, or come in with your dog after he’s been out playing. Therefore, it is important to use preventative products such as Hartz¨ UltraGuard Pro¨ Flea & Tick Drops for Cats even if you have an indoor cat.

  • I have a young kitten that already has fleas. How old does a kitten have to be before I can use one of your flea and tick products?

    Kittens must be at least 12 weeks old in order to use any of our flea and tick products.

  • I have a 16 year old cat, is she too old for topical flea and tick treatments and, if so, what do you recommend I should do now to control her fleas?

    We do not recommend using Hartz® UltraGuard™ Flea & Tick products on aged cats without the consultation of a veterinarian. Please work with your vet so they can determine which product is best to use on your cat.

    You can, however treat your home environment with Hartz® UltraGuard Plus™ Flea & Tick Home Spray to kill fleas that are around your home and prevent new ones from developing. Additionally, vacuuming will help to reduce flea eggs that develop into adult fleas.

    If your cat goes outdoors, you can treat your yard with Hartz® UltraGuard™ Yard Spray. This will provide you with an additional layer of protection for your cat. Be sure all products have dried before you allow your cat back into the area.

  • What if my cat licks or grooms itself after I’ve applied any flea and tick product?

    It is important to apply the product in a location that your cat cannot easily reach while grooming. It is also recommended that you prevent your cat from grooming immediately after product application. If your cat does happen to groom itself, you may see some drooling or foaming at the mouth due to the product taste. If these signs continue or become more severe, contact your veterinarian.

  • What if my cat drinks some of the bath water during the bath?

    If your cat does get a few drinks of the water before you can stop it, this should not likely cause a problem because the bath water will have diluted the shampoo. However, it is possible to have some gastrointestinal upset (vomiting or diarrhea) from the soap in the shampoo usually within 24 to 48 hours of the bath. Contact your veterinarian if the signs persist for longer than 48 hours or if they become worse.

  • Can I use your flea and tick products on a pregnant cat?

    No, it is not recommended to use our flea and tick products on pregnant cats; read the product labels for full precautions.

  • Should I be concerned about mosquitoes biting my cat?

    Yes, mosquitoes are not only a nuisance but they can also carry diseases. Most concerning is their ability to transmit feline heartworms. Hartz recommends the use of Hartz® UltraGuard Pro® or Hartz® UltraGuard Plus™ to kill and repel mosquitoes on contact.

  • How do I know if my cat has ear mites?

    Ear mites are barely visible to the naked eye; however, here are some symptoms to look for:

    • Head shaking or carrying the head tilted to one side.
    • Excessive scratching at the ears (there may be sores around the ears).
    • Dark brown to black crusty discharge in the ears.
    • Difficulty hearing – especially if combined with other signs.
  • How many different types of intestinal worms can attack my cat?

    As a cat owner, it’s important to know about the different types of worms and their potential effects on your cat’s health. The most common are roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and whipworms. See Intestinal parasites and your cat

  • How does my cat become infected with intestinal worms?

    How your pet becomes infected depends on the type of worm. Kittens may become infected with roundworms while in uterus, thus they are already infected at birth. Otherwise, they can become infected through their mother’s milk. This is also true of hookworms. To become infected with Tapeworms cats need to ingest an infected flea. See Intestinal parasites and your cat

  • How often can I bathe my cat?

    Cats tend to groom themselves and therefore do not require to be bathed as often as dogs. Frequency of bathing is dependent on the cat’s activity level and whether it is an indoor or outdoor cat. Cats should not be bathed more than once a month.

  • What can I do to reduce my pet’s shedding?

    Depending on the breed and season, some animals shed more than others. With a healthy diet consisting of Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids and daily grooming, pet shedding can be controlled. The best solution is also the simplest: control shedding by increasing the number of baths you give your pet and by brushing your pet on a daily basis. Use a slicker brush that easily captures fine hair. By brushing daily, you will notice less hair floating around the house, and, less hair will also help in reducing allergens.

  • My pet licked the product, is it harmful?

    Hartz shampoos have been carefully tested and formulated with very low toxicity to pets and humans; but as with any ingestion of shampoo, it may cause some degree of gastrointestinal upset.

  • Can I use the Hartz shampoos on a pregnant animal?

    Yes. All Hartz grooming shampoos are gentle enough for use on pregnant animals. However, a veterinarian should be consulted prior to use of any flea & tick shampoo.

  • Where can I locate product?

    Hartz products are sold in all major retail outlets. Our product can be found in large mass stores such as Wal-Mart and Kmart, grocery stores, drug stores, pet specialty retailers and more.

  • Where are Hartz¨ shampoos made?

    Hartz shampoos and sprays are all made in the USA.

  • Why does my cat need toys?

    Cats are ultimate hunters and toys help alleviate boredom in your cat and help direct instinctive prey-chasing behaviors into a manner that is more acceptable for indoor playtime. Engaging in playful activities with your cat also provides her with an opportunity for exercise, of which most indoor cats are in desperate need, as well as presents the opportunity for you to bond with your pet. It is recommended to rotate the toys that your feline plays with each day to keep your cat stimulated, happy and healthy.

  • Is it okay if children play with dog and cat toys?

    Hartz toys are designed specifically for cats and dogs and are not approved for use by children. We do have toys designed specifically for interaction; however young children should always be supervised during playtime with pets.

  • What are the best toys for my cat?

    By adding toys to your cat’s environment, you provide the necessary stimulation to keep them physically active and mentally engaged. Hartz cat toys are developed with a deep understanding of feline play behavior to help your cat get the most out of playtime! We, as pet parents, are attuned to their needs, some cats may have one favorite way of playing while others alternate among several types of play.

    However you decide to incorporate play into your feline’s daily routine, Hartz has extensively researched and identified four primary cat play patterns:

    Hunt: Stimulates cats’ natural hunting instincts, bringing out their role as predators.

    Swat: Entices cats to manipulate objects with their paws to help build coordination.

    Interact: Creates a strong bond between owners and pets, and makes playtime more stimulating and dynamic.

    Explore: Engages cats’ many natural instincts to help keep cats fit, agile and satisfied.

  • How do you ensure the safety of your cat toys?

    Although our toys are designed with your feline in mind and constructed with high standards each cat is an individual so it is important to supervise your pet during play, no matter how comfortable your feline is with the toy. Nearly any toy can pose a hazard in one way or another, so you must monitor your cat’s interaction with every toy. Over time, you will learn which toys your cat can handle without close supervision, which toys are alright only for a short time, and with which toys your pet gets very rough (these should be removed if excessive wear or damage occurs).

  • How can you be sure there is no lead in your toys?

    Our toys are tested at certified, independent testing facilities to assure that the toy meets government safety guidelines for lead content.

  • What are phthalates, do your toys contain them?

    Phthalates, or phthalate esters, are esters of phthalic acid and are mainly used as plasticizers (substances added to plastics to increase their flexibility). Our toys are tested at certified, independent testing facilities to assure that the toy meets government safety guidelines for phthalate content.

  • Where are Hartz® cat toys made?

    Hartz produces many of its toys in China. Hartz has a long history of producing quality cat toys and as such works with trusted vendors, most of whom we have worked with for many years. Our quality-control team inspects all finished goods to ensure procedures are in compliance with our quality standards.

  • What happens if a piece of a cat toy is ingested?

    It depends on the size of the piece and the size of the pet. Pets can easily swallow something that would never make it through their entire system. If you suspect your pet may have ingested a piece of a toy it is best to consult your veterinarian.

  • Why does label say to “supervise pet”?

    Although our toys are designed with your animal in mind and constructed with high standards each pet is an individual – even pet of similar size and breed will have very different play patterns. For example, a plush toy in the mouth of a tough chewer could be demolished in a matter of minutes. Play behaviors also change as your dog adapts to each individual toy, so it is important to supervise your pet during play, no matter how comfortable your dog is with the toy. Nearly any toy can pose a hazard in one way or another, so you must monitor your pet’s interaction with every toy. Over time, you will learn which toys your pet can handle without close supervision, which toys are alright only for a short time, and with which toys your pet gets very rough (these should be removed).

  • What is recommended serving of this dental treat and is it possible for my pet to have too many?

    To get the maximum dental benefit we recommend five treats twice daily. There is no danger in giving your cat more than the recommended daily amount, however, this is a treat and is only intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding.

  • What are the calories per treat?

    1.1 Calories per treat

  • At What age is it safe for me to give my kitten this treat?

    As long as your kitten is on solid foods it is safe for them to have a treat. Please keep in mind, this is a treat and is only intended for intermittent or supplemental feeding and should not be the sole source of their diet.

  • How does Hartz® NodorTM Cat Litter Spray work?

    Hartz® NodorTM Cat Litter Spray uses breakthrough encapsulating technology to surround cat urine odor molecules and permanently stop them from causing odor.

    Hartz® NodorTM Cat Litter Spray was specifically designed to eliminate cat urine odors on and around the litter box. However, it is also effective in eliminating odors from other surfaces such as wood, carpet and upholstery. Be sure to test for colorfastness before using on these surfaces.

  • Do you test for salmonella?

    Hartz® attention to quality is evident in the way our products are produced. Hartz® employs a stringent production control process to assure the highest quality products. All Oinkies® products are manufactured in facilities certified to internationally recognized food safety standards, where routine Salmonella testing is an integral part of our quality assurance program.