As a responsible cat owner, it’s essential to stay informed about the latest treatments and medications available to keep your feline friend healthy and thriving. One such medication that has gained popularity in recent years is Credelio, a parasiticide specifically designed for cats. With the rising concern about flea and tick-borne diseases, understanding what Credelio is and how it works can be a crucial aspect of your cat’s overall health and wellbeing.
What is Credelio for Cats?
Credelio is a prescription medication developed by Elanco, a leading animal health company, to combat flea and tick infestations in cats. It contains the active ingredient lotilaner, a novel isoxazoline compound that targets the nervous system of parasites, ultimately leading to their death. This fast-acting and effective treatment is administered orally, making it a convenient and easy-to-use solution for cat owners.
How Does Credelio Work?
Credelio works by inhibiting the function of specific receptors in the nervous system of fleas and ticks, causing them to become paralyzed and eventually die. This results in rapid elimination of the parasites, providing quick relief to your cat from the discomfort and distress caused by infestations. With its unique mechanism of action, Credelio is an effective treatment against a range of flea and tick species, including those that may be resistant to other treatments.
Why is Credelio Important for Cat Health?
Flea and tick-borne diseases, such as flea allergy dermatitis, tapeworms, and Lyme disease, can have severe consequences for your cat’s health if left untreated. Credelio plays a vital role in preventing these diseases by eliminating the parasites that transmit them. By using Credelio as part of a comprehensive parasite control program, you can help protect your cat from the risks associated with flea and tick infestations, ensuring they lead a happy and healthy life.
What Is Credelio For Cats?
Credelio is a popular flea and tick medication specifically designed for cats. It is a fast-acting oral treatment that provides quick relief from flea and tick infestations, as well as other external parasites. In this article, we will delve into the details of Credelio for cats, its benefits, side effects, and how it works.
What Is Credelio?
Credelio is a brand name for the medication lotilaner, which belongs to the isoxazoline class of drugs. It is a systemic insecticide and acaricide, meaning it targets and kills fleas, ticks, and other external parasites that feed on the cat’s blood. Credelio is available in various strengths and is suitable for cats of all ages, including kittens from 8 weeks old.
How Does Credelio Work?
Credelio works by targeting the nervous system of fleas and ticks, causing them to become paralyzed and eventually die. The medication is absorbed into the cat’s bloodstream, where it is distributed throughout the body. When fleas and ticks feed on the cat’s blood, they ingest the lotilaner, which leads to their demise. (See Also: What To Clean A Cats Ears With)
The effects of Credelio are rapid, with fleas and ticks starting to die within 4-6 hours of administration. The medication continues to work for up to 35 days, providing extended protection against flea and tick infestations.
Benefits of Credelio For Cats
Credelio offers several benefits for cat owners, including:
- Rapid relief from flea and tick infestations: Credelio starts working quickly, providing fast relief from the discomfort and stress caused by flea and tick bites.
- Extended protection: The medication provides up to 35 days of protection against flea and tick infestations, reducing the need for frequent re-dosing.
- Convenient administration: Credelio is an oral medication, making it easy to administer to cats, even those that are finicky or difficult to treat.
- Broad-spectrum protection: Credelio not only targets fleas and ticks but also other external parasites, such as mites and lice.
- Safe for kittens and pregnant or lactating cats: Credelio is approved for use in kittens from 8 weeks old and is safe for pregnant or lactating cats.
Side Effects of Credelio For Cats
Like all medications, Credelio can cause side effects in some cats. Common side effects include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Lack of appetite
- Increased salivation
These side effects are generally mild and temporary, resolving on their own within a few days of administration. In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, including:
- Seizures
- Tremors
- Ataxia (loss of coordination)
If you notice any side effects in your cat, it is essential to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide guidance on managing side effects and determining the best course of treatment for your cat.
Precautions and Contraindications
Before administering Credelio to your cat, it is essential to consider the following precautions and contraindications:
- Neurological disorders: Credelio should be used with caution in cats with a history of neurological disorders, such as epilepsy or seizures.
- Kidney or liver disease: Cats with kidney or liver disease should be monitored closely while taking Credelio, as the medication may exacerbate these conditions.
- Pregnancy or lactation: While Credelio is safe for pregnant or lactating cats, it is essential to consult with your veterinarian before administering the medication.
- Concurrent use with other medications: Credelio should not be used in conjunction with other flea and tick medications or certain antibiotics, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
Administration and Dosage
Credelio is available in various strengths, including 12mg, 28mg, 56mg, and 112mg tablets. The dosage is determined by the cat’s weight, and the following table provides a guide for administration: (See Also: What Color Are Maine Coon Cats)
| Weight Range | Dosage |
|---|---|
| 0.5-1.1 kg (1.1-2.4 lbs) | 12mg tablet |
| 1.2-2.3 kg (2.5-5.1 lbs) | 28mg tablet |
| 2.4-4.5 kg (5.2-9.9 lbs) | 56mg tablet |
| 4.6-9.0 kg (10.0-19.8 lbs) | 112mg tablet |
The tablet should be administered orally, and it is recommended to give the medication with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
Conclusion
Credelio is a fast-acting and effective flea and tick medication for cats. Its broad-spectrum protection, convenient administration, and extended protection make it a popular choice among cat owners. However, it is essential to consult with your veterinarian before administering Credelio, especially if your cat has a history of neurological disorders, kidney or liver disease, or is taking other medications.
Remember to follow the recommended dosage and administration guidelines, and monitor your cat for any side effects. With proper use and guidance from your veterinarian, Credelio can provide effective relief from flea and tick infestations, helping to improve your cat’s overall health and wellbeing.
Recap
In this article, we discussed:
- The benefits of Credelio for cats, including rapid relief from flea and tick infestations, extended protection, and convenient administration.
- The side effects of Credelio, including common and rare side effects, and the importance of consulting with your veterinarian if you notice any adverse reactions.
- The precautions and contraindications of Credelio, including neurological disorders, kidney or liver disease, and concurrent use with other medications.
- The administration and dosage guidelines for Credelio, including the recommended dosage based on the cat’s weight.
By understanding the benefits, side effects, and administration guidelines of Credelio, you can make an informed decision about using this medication to protect your cat from flea and tick infestations.
Frequently Asked Questions: What Is Credelio For Cats
What is Credelio, and how does it work?
Credelio is a topical flea and tick medication specifically designed for cats. It contains the active ingredient lotilaner, which works by targeting the nervous system of fleas and ticks, causing them to become paralyzed and eventually die. Credelio is applied directly to the skin of your cat, usually between the shoulder blades, and starts working within a few hours of application. (See Also: Why Do My Cats Legs Shake)
Is Credelio safe for my cat?
Credelio is generally considered safe for cats when used as directed. However, as with any medication, there is a small risk of side effects, such as skin irritation, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms in your cat after applying Credelio, consult your veterinarian immediately. It’s also important to follow the instructions carefully and only use Credelio on cats that are at least 8 weeks old and weigh at least 1.5 pounds.
How long does Credelio take to start working?
Credelio starts working quickly, usually within 4-6 hours of application. You may start to see a reduction in flea and tick activity within a few hours, and the medication continues to work for a full month after application. It’s essential to apply Credelio monthly to maintain its effectiveness and prevent re-infestation.
Can I use Credelio on my pregnant or nursing cat?
It’s recommended to consult your veterinarian before using Credelio on a pregnant or nursing cat. While Credelio is generally considered safe, your veterinarian may have specific guidance or recommendations based on your cat’s individual health and circumstances.
Can I use Credelio in combination with other medications?
It’s always best to consult your veterinarian before using Credelio in combination with other medications, including flea and tick preventatives, heartworm medications, or other prescription drugs. Your veterinarian can help you determine the best course of treatment for your cat and ensure that Credelio is safe to use in combination with other medications.
