Top 10 Things to Know About Bravecto Plus for Cats

Bravecto Plus is a popular veterinary-prescribed parasiticide designed specifically for cats. It stands out in the market due to its long-lasting efficacy, broad-spectrum protection, and convenient application. As a pet owner, understanding the key features, benefits, and important safety considerations of any medication you give your feline companion is crucial. This topical solution not only tackles common pests like fleas and ticks but also addresses internal parasites, making it a comprehensive solution for many feline parasite concerns. However, its suitability depends on your cat’s specific health profile and lifestyle. The following list provides a detailed overview of the top ten things every cat owner should know before considering Bravecto Plus, covering its mechanism of action, spectrum of control, safety profile, and practical usage tips to ensure you can make an informed decision in consultation with your veterinarian.

1.  It’s a Broad-Spectrum Parasiticide for Cats

Bravecto Plus is formulated to provide protection against both external and internal parasites. This dual action makes it a convenient all-in-one solution. Externally, it kills fleas and several species of ticks. Internally, it treats and prevents intestinal worms, specifically hookworms and roundworms, and also prevents heartworm disease. This broad activity means a single application can address multiple parasite threats, simplifying your cat’s preventative healthcare routine and reducing the need for multiple separate products.

2.  The Key Feature is Long-Lasting Protection

The most significant advantage of Bravecto Plus is its extended duration of action. While many topical products require monthly application, a single dose of Bravecto Plus is effective for up to two months against fleas and ticks, and for up to three months against heartworm disease. The internal parasite control for hookworms and roundworms lasts for the full three-month period. This extended protection is beneficial for both the cat and the owner, reducing the frequency of application, which can be stressful for some cats, and making it easier to maintain a consistent preventative schedule without monthly reminders.

3.  Understand Its Active Ingredients and How They Work

Bravecto Plus contains two active ingredients: – Fluralaner: This compound belongs to the isoxazoline class. It works by selectively inhibiting neurotransmitter receptors in the nervous systems of parasites, leading to their hyperexcitation and death. Fluralaner is responsible for killing fleas and ticks. It is absorbed into the cat’s systemic circulation, providing long-lasting protection as parasites bite the cat. – Moxidectin: This is a member of the milbemycin class of parasiticides. It works by enhancing the release of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in parasites, leading to paralysis and death. Moxidectin is effective against internal parasites, including the larval stages of heartworms, hookworms, and roundworms.

4.  It is a Prescription-Only Product

Bravecto Plus is not an over-the-counter medication. It must be prescribed by a licensed veterinarian. This is a critical safety measure. Your veterinarian will perform a health check to ensure your cat is a suitable candidate for the product, considering factors like age, weight, breed, and overall health status. This step is essential to mitigate risks and confirm that the benefits outweigh any potential concerns for your individual cat.

5.  Know the Specific Parasites It Controls

It is important to have a precise understanding of what Bravecto Plus protects against. Its approved claims include: – Fleas: Kills fleas and treats existing infestations for 2 months. – Ticks: Kills specific tick species (including the Black-legged tick, American dog tick, and Brown dog tick) for 2 months. – Heartworm: Prevents heartworm disease for 3 months. – Intestinal Worms: Treats and controls hookworm and roundworm infections for 3 months. Note: It does not protect against tapeworms, which require a different type of dewormer, or ear mites.

6.  Pay Close Attention to Weight and Age Restrictions

Bravecto Plus is approved for cats and kittens from 9 weeks of age and weighing at least 2.6 lbs (1.2 kg). It is crucial to weigh your cat accurately and use the correct dosage tube based on their weight range. Using a product designed for a larger cat on a smaller one can lead to an overdose. Conversely, using an under-dose will provide inadequate protection. The product is available in different sizes (e.g., for cats 2.6-6.1 lbs, 6.2-13.8 lbs) to ensure accurate dosing.

7.  Be Aware of the Safety Profile and Potential Side Effects

While generally well-tolerated, like all medications, Bravecto Plus can have side effects. The most commonly reported reactions are mild and transient, often related to the application site, such as temporary itching, hair loss, or discoloration. Some cats may experience gastrointestinal upset like vomiting or diarrhea, or neurological signs such as lethargy or tremors. It is essential to be aware that isoxazolines (the class of fluralaner) have been associated with neurologic adverse reactions in some animals, including muscle tremors, ataxia (loss of coordination), and seizures. The risk is higher in animals with a history of seizures. Discuss your cat’s full medical history with your veterinarian before use.

8.  Proper Application is Crucial for Effectiveness and Safety

Correct application ensures the product works as intended and minimizes the risk of ingestion by the cat or other pets. Key steps include: – Part the fur at the base of the skull until the skin is visible. This is a spot the cat cannot easily lick. – Place the tip of the tube directly on the skin and squeeze firmly to empty the entire contents. – Apply only one tube per cat. Do not split a tube between multiple cats. – Ensure the application site is dry and do not bathe your cat for 24 hours before or after application.

9.  Important Precautions and Warnings to Heed

Several important warnings accompany this product: – Do not use on sick, underweight, or debilitated cats unless directed by a vet. – Avoid use in cats with a known history of seizures or neurologic disorders. – The product is for cats only. It is highly toxic to fish and aquatic invertebrates, so dispose of empty packaging responsibly. – Keep treated cats separate from other pets, especially dogs, for 24 hours after application to prevent cross-licking and oral ingestion. – Wash your hands immediately after application and avoid contact with the application site until it is dry.

10. Consult Your Veterinarian for Individualized Advice

This is the most important point. Your veterinarian is your best resource for determining if Bravecto Plus is the right choice for your cat. You may also want to consider Nexgard Spectra for Cats. Assess your cat’s individual risk factors based on their lifestyle (indoor vs. outdoor), geographic location (which influences parasite prevalence), and health history. They can also provide guidance on a year-round parasite control strategy and answer any specific questions you have about the product’s use, ensuring the health and safety of your feline friend.