Why would an indoor cat need flea and tick protection?
One of the most common misconceptions about indoor cats is that they are not at risk for fleas and ticks. Fleas and ticks can be brought into the home on people’s shoes and clothing, and readily infest cats from there. Other pets in the home can also put indoor cats at risk. For example, if a pet owner also has a dog that regularly goes outside, that cat is also at risk for fleas and ticks. Additionally, indoor cats may not be as “indoor” as they seem with short trips to the yard, patio or porch where they can be exposed to fleas and ticks as well.
What are some common signs of fleas on cats?
Common clinical signs include increased, over-active grooming, itchiness, patches of hair loss with reddened skin, small bumpy scabs along the flanks or back end and large scabs around the face. These signs can mimic a number of other issues in cats, including allergies, so it is always a good idea to proactively treat for fleas. Ironically, cats with flea infestations often have an apparent absence of fleas. This is because they are commonly removed by cats through their daily grooming and is a major reason why cat owners and even veterinarians have difficulty realizing a cat has fleas.
If fleas are found, they are most often found around the head and neck area. How fast does Credelio CAT (lotilaner) start killing fleas?
In a well-controlled laboratory study, Credelio Cat began to kill fleas six hours after administration, with >98% of fleas killed within 12 hours after administration. In another well-controlled laboratory study, Credelio Cat demonstrated 100% effectiveness against adult fleas 24 hours after administration or infestation for 35 days. Credelio maintains high, fast-acting and sustained flea efficacy throughout the month.
Which ticks are Credelio Cat labeled for?
Credelio Cat is labeled for the black-legged tick, also known as Ixodes scapularis. This is the most common tick infesting cats in the United States1 and is a threat to cats spring through fall. They transmit Lyme disease and anaplasmosis to cats. True prevalence of these diseases in cats is difficult to determine.
What is the best way to administer Credelio Cat?
All owners have different comfort levels with their cat when it comes to administering medication. There are three basic ways to administer Credelio Cat: 1. Offer by hand or place in area where your cat feels comfortable eating. Many cats will eat the chewable by free choice. Tempting with treats can also help. 2. Offer with food during a meal. If your cat is a grazer, try placing it around a few pieces of kibble or covered in wet food and checking to make sure it has been consumed out of the bowl. 3. Place the chewable on the back of your cat’s tongue. The chewables were designed to be very small and easy to administer in these situations. It is important to always administer Credelio Cat with a meal or 30 minutes after feeding.
Why is food so important when administering Credelio Cat?
Food enhances the absorption and bioavailability of lotilaner in cats. In fact, when given with food, 100% of lotilaner reached systemic circulation as opposed to only 8% in unfed cats. Credelio Cat needs to be administered with food or within 30 minutes of feeding. This will ensure high blood concentrations and sustained efficacy throughout the month.
Is Credelio CAT (lotilaner) safe?
Credelio Cat is FDA-approved as safe and effective when used according to the label.
