FDA Approves Generic Topical Parasiticide for Cats
The mysterious cat, known for its grace in movement, and ability to provide us with both cuddles and comfort, is a much cherished companion. In order to keep our feline companions in a state of wellness, it’s crucial to understand the negative role parasites play in their lives, and the most efficient way to deal with them. Common pests include: Ear mites, fleas, heartworm, and internal parasites. There are many medications on the market today that can help control and eliminate these pests. However, without the proper diagnosis by a veterinarian, it could be hard for some people to know exactly what is wrong. Fortunately the FDA approved a generic topical parasiticide for cats: Imoxi by Vetoquinol. Vetoquinol’s Imoxi quite handily eliminates these parasites with ease, allowing your cat to return to a vibrant lifestyle.
Imoxi Topical Solution for Cats
Imoxi Topical Solution for Cats by Vetoquinol, is a prescription only medication which contains both Moxidectin and Imidacloprid. If you’re familiar with the over the counter drug, Advantage Multi for Cats, then know that Imoxi uses the exact same blend of imidacloprid and moxidectin. While there are many over the counter meds for cats that do contain both ingredients, Imoxi Topical Solution requires that a licensed vet to examine your cat personally in order to correctly diagnose the type of parasitic infestation your cat has. This is for your benefit. No matter how much we research our cats symptoms, know that there are different parasites out there, and not all respond to every medication equally. So it takes a qualified medical professional to correctly identify the parasite. For instance, your pet may have ticks, but you may think they’re fleas, or your cat may have heartworm, and you think they’re just sleeping longer.
Moxidectin
One of the active ingredients in Imoxi is moxidectin. Over the counter topical pet medications that use moxidectin include ProHeart, Advocate and Advantage Multi. It functions as a topical avermectin anti-parasitic that protects pets against the ravages of deadly parasites such as heartworms, whipworms, and roundworms.
Imidacloprid
Imidacloprid belongs to the chemical class of medications known as neonicotinoids. This ingredient is safe for both cats and kittens, and only zeros in on the target insect by causing paralysis and eventual death. However, if an accidental overdose occurs the symptoms are lethargy, convulsions, difficult breathing, tremors, cramps, and a wobbly walk.
Cat Parasites Impacted by Imoxi
Imoxi for cats is designed to target and eliminate certain parasites. It belongs to the class of medications known as antiparasitic medications. Once they locate the offending parasite, they either eliminate them or stunt their growth. Below are some of the parasites which Imoxi eliminates.
Heartworm
The dreaded heartworm infestation is caused by the Dirofilmaria Immitis parasite. Heartworms are often up to a foot long, which reside in the heart and lungs of cats, causing acute suffering and eventual death. While heartworm in dogs is much more prevalent, cats have been know to suffer from it as well. It’s not as pervasive as dogs, with cats hosting perhaps 1 to 3 adult heart worms. However, both young and adult heartworms can cause a condition called HARD (heartworm associated respiratory disease) in cats. If your cat has heartworm, do not give it dog medication. Only heartworm medication such as Imoxi is safe and effective for cats.
Flea infestation
if you notice your cat suffering from uncontrollable itching, then there’s a high percentage that they’re dealing with an infestation of Ctenocephalides felis, or flea infestation. If you suspect your cat has fleas, take a flea comb and run it through your cats fur and examine the comb. if you notice tiny little moving specs, then you’ll need to deal with it stat. Topical medications such as Imoxi contain both Moxidectin and Imidacloprid which will rid your cat of fleas.
Ear Mite Infestation
Otodectes cynotis or ear mite infestations are maddening for cats and must be dealt with as soon as possible. These little critters make your cats life miserable by crawling around inside their ear, causing your cat to experience discomfort and itching 24/7, with never a moment’s peace. Once a few get ensconced in the ear, they begin to multiply, making little ear mite babies, and compounding your cats nightmare. Besides the scratching, the mites leave behind this thick, dark, substance which is a mixture of ear wax and mite excrement. Fortunately, Imoxi is designed to end your cat’s suffering quickly and easily.
Internal Parasites
Ancylostoma tubaeforme and Toxocara cati, or hookworms and roundworms, respectively, are 2 internal parasites found in cats. Roundworms live in your cats intestine, causing gastric upsets and gas. As their name implies, hookworms ‘hook’ on the small intestine, and survive by drinking your cats blood. As a result, your cat will suffer from anemia. Vetoquinol’s Imoxi works to protect your cat by interfering with the development of young, mature and fourth stage hookworm larvae, as well as fourth stage roundworm larvae.
Signs of Parasitic Infestation in Cats
An awareness of how parasites affect cats is a good thing. However, how do you know your cat has parasites? How do we know when it’s time to take them into the vet for a checkup? While cats aren’t’ the easiest animals to read, there are some tell-tale signs that your cat has an infestation:
- Lethargy
- Weight loss
- Dull coat and/or thinning fur
- Constipation, loose bowel, blood in the stool
If you notice that your cat has any of these, or a combination of symptoms, then it’s time to pack them into the carrier, and drive them to the nearest vet. The earlier you take them in, the faster the treatment phase will be. If there is an infestation, be sure to inquire about Vetoquinol’s Imoxi as a treatment.
Final Thoughts
It’s only natural for pet owners to want to know everything about the topical and internal medications they’re giving their pets, especially cats. The developer of Imoxi, Vetoquinol, has a long and proud history of helping keep your pets healthy and well. Founded in 1933 by Pharmacist Joseph Frechin, Vetoquinol has grown to be a well-respected international company, devoted to tending to your cats health issues. The FDA approved generic topical parasiticide for cats,Imoxi, is one of the more recent, innovative pet medicines they’ve introduced to the market. Now that you’re familiar with not only the parasites which can infest your cat, but also a suitable, prescription treatment, you can rest assured that your furry feline buddy will be able to live a long and care-free life.