
In this article of Animals and Pets Online we will talk about the ivermectin for cats , a drug that has been employed for decades.Registered for use in cattle, there are currently other more specific, effective and safe products that have studies in cats and, therefore, are more recommended., we will explain in which cases ivermectin is used and what are the precautions that we must take into account, since, like any medicine, it can have adverse effects.
What is ivermectin for cats?
The ivermectin is a macrocyclic lactone that has been used since the 1980s in cows, sheep, goats or horses.Its activity antiparasitic has extended its I use companion animals such as dogs and cats.Ivermectin works by paralyzing and, consequently, killing parasites.It is marketed in various formats so that in the market we can find ivermectin in paste, pipette or for oral administration or Injectable, not registered for use in companion animals.
Administration on the skin can cause alopecia and scaling in the area.Selamectin or moxidectin are other widely used lactones which are usually used in pipettes and that constitute an alternative to ivermectin for cats.
What is ivermectin used in cats?
The applications of ivermectin in cats are based, as we have said, on their effect against some parasites.Yes, it is able to eliminate yamatous nematodes , with which it can be used as an internal dewormer against roundworms and in the treatment of diseases caused by small sores, both inside the ear and on the skin.An example is its use in the otodectic scabies caused by Otodectes cynotis, or ivermectin for cats with notoedric or sarcoptic mange , cutaneous conditions also produced by pigs.Its application in the treatment of infestations by external parasites such as fleas and ticks is controversial, so it is recommended other antiparasitics that eliminate and prevent these reinfestations.
In addition, we must highlight their application in the prevention and treatment of dirofilariosis or heartworm , a parasite capable of staying in this organ or, in the lungs and veins that go to the liver.This worm accesses the organism in immature forms that are transmitted by the bite of infected mosquitoes.Because of the importance of the organs it affects, it is a life-threatening parasitosis The use of ivermectin in animals with suspected filariosis should be done following strict veterinary control, since a dose that quickly kills the microfilariae can trigger a severe anaphylactic reaction.

Dosage of ivermectin for cats
Both the amount to be administered and the frequency of the dose of ivermectin for cats are very variable, as it will depend on the reason we use it, which is why it is very important that, in all cases, Before giving ivermectin to the cat , we consult with the veterinarian , even if we have already given it to him before.Of course, having used ivermectin in other animals does not imply that it will have the same effect on the cat Next, we will examine possible adverse reactions.
Toxicity of ivermectin for cats
If we follow the veterinarian's instructions, the use of ivermectin will be safe for our cat, unless it is allergic to the product, which is not very common.Otherwise, the side effects of ivermectin in cats can be very serious.Yes, improper dosing can cause poisoning that produces symptoms such as the following:
- Uncoordination.
- Vomiting and diarrhea.
- Depression.
- Excessively wide tremors and movements.
- Dilated pupils.
- Hypersalivation.
- Difficulty to breathe.
- Temperature decrease.
- Absence of reflexes.
- Paralisis in the legs rear.
If after the administration of ivermectin we appreciate any of these signs, we must go immediately to the veterinarian .There is no antidote against ivermectin, so the Treatment is based on the establishment of fluid therapy and the necessary drugs for symptom control.Recovery may take several weeks.

Contraindications of ivermectin for cats
Finally, before administering ivermectin for puppy cats we should consult with the veterinarian, since smaller kittens could be intoxicated.An overdose will be more dangerous in them.In this way, we should not give ivermectin again to a cat that has shown to be allergic to it.Special precaution also deserves the pregnant and lactating cats , since ivermectin passes into milk.
This article is merely informative, at Animals and Pets Online we do not have the power to prescribe veterinary treatments or make any type of diagnosis.We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian in the event that he presents any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Ivermectin for cats-Dosage and uses , we recommend that you enter our Medicines section.
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