Bravecto is a popular medication used to treat and prevent flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats. The medication is available in a chewable tablet form, which makes it easy to administer to pets. Bravecto works quickly and provides long-lasting protection against fleas and ticks. In this article, we will discuss the uses, benefits, side effects, and warnings of Bravecto.
Uses
Bravecto is a veterinarian-prescribed medication that is primarily used to control and prevent flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats. The medication’s active ingredient, fluralaner, is a type of insecticide that targets the nervous system of fleas and ticks. It kills fleas and ticks by disrupting the transmission of nerve impulses, eventually leading to paralysis and death.
The medication can also be used to treat sarcoptic mange in dogs, which is a contagious skin infestation caused by sarcoptic mites. Bravecto can provide relief from itching and inflammation caused by the condition and can also prevent any further mite infestations.
Benefits
Bravecto offers several benefits over other flea and tick medications. One of the main benefits is its long-lasting efficacy. Bravecto provides up to 12 weeks of protection against fleas and ticks, which is significantly longer than other medications that only provide protection for 1-2 weeks. This means fewer doses and fewer chances of missed doses, which can reduce the risk of re-infestations.
Another benefit of Bravecto is that it is available in a tasty chewable tablet form, which makes it easy for pet owners to administer to their pets. Additionally, because the medication is a systemic treatment, it does not require topical application, which can often be messy and time-consuming.
Side Effects
While Bravecto is generally considered safe and effective when used correctly, it can cause side effects in some pets. The most common side effects of Bravecto include:
– Vomiting
– Diarrhea
– Decreased appetite
– Lethargy
– Itching
– Skin redness
– Hair loss
– Seizures
In rare cases, Bravecto can cause more serious side effects such as tremors, ataxia, and respiratory distress. If you notice any severe side effects after administering Bravecto to your pet, it is important to contact your veterinarian right away.
Warnings
There are several warnings and precautions to keep in mind when administering Bravecto to your pet. The medication should not be used in pets that are hypersensitive to fluralaner or any other ingredients in the medication.
Additionally, the medication should not be used in puppies or kittens that are less than 6 months old, as the medication has not been tested for safety in young animals. Pregnant or lactating animals should also avoid Bravecto, as its effects on fetal and neonatal development are not yet fully understood.
It is also important to note that Bravecto should be administered with caution in pets with a history of seizures or neurologic abnormalities. The medication may exacerbate these conditions and cause further harm to the animal.
FAQs
Bravecto works quickly and kills fleas and ticks within 2-12 hours of administration.
Bravecto provides up to 12 weeks of protection against fleas and ticks, so it should be administered every 12 weeks or as recommended by a veterinarian.
Bravecto should not be used in puppies or kittens that are less than 6 months old.
Bravecto should not be used in pregnant or lactating animals, as its effects on fetal and neonatal development are not yet fully understood.
If you notice any severe side effects after administering Bravecto to your pet, it is important to contact your veterinarian right away.
