Methods for reducing the incidence of flea allergy dermatitis (FAD) in a companion animal are disclosed, the methods directed to inhibiting blood feeding by ectoparasites on a companion animal. The methods of the present invention involve administering a pesticide composition comprising cyphenothrin to a companion animal, specifically dogs and cats, in doses and proportions which are parasiticidally effective against a variety of ectoparasites, and in formulations which are convenient for topical application to the animal's skin, preferably localized over a small surface area. Such methods are useful in preventing and/or reducing the incidence of flea allergy dermatitis.
