Can Advocate Be Used On Cats?

By Author: Vetsupply
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If you’re a cat parent, you’ve probably wondered about the best way to keep your feline friend safe from harmful parasites. Advocate for cats is a widely recognized treatment for pets, but is it the right choice for your cat? This comprehensive guide will answer all your questions about using Advocate on cats.

What is Advocate?

Overview of Advocate

Advocate is a topical, spot-on treatment designed to protect pets from a variety of parasites. It’s highly regarded for its ease of use and effectiveness.

Key Active Ingredients in Advocate

Advocate contains two main ingredients:

Imidacloprid: Targets external parasites like fleas.
Moxidectin: Treats internal parasites and prevents heartworm.

How Advocate Works

Once applied to your cat’s skin, Advocate spreads across their body and into their bloodstream, killing parasites on contact or ingestion.

Common Parasites in Cats

External Parasites: Fleas and Ticks

Fleas can cause itching, skin infections, ...
... and even tapeworm infections. Advocate helps eliminate adult fleas and prevents new infestations.

Internal Parasites: Roundworms and Hookworms

Internal worms can lead to nutritional deficiencies and digestive issues. Advocate works effectively to treat and prevent these infestations.

Additional Threats: Ear Mites and Heartworm

Advocate is also effective against ear mites, a common cause of discomfort in cats, and prevents heartworm infections, which can be life-threatening.

Advocate’s Effectiveness for Cats

How Advocate Treats Fleas and Mites

Advocate kills fleas within 12 hours of application and interrupts their lifecycle, ensuring long-term relief. It also clears ear mites quickly.

Worm Control with Advocate

Its active ingredient, moxidectin, eliminates intestinal worms and prevents future infections, keeping your cat healthy.

Heartworm Prevention in Cats

Heartworm can be devastating for cats. Advocate acts as a preventive measure, stopping the development of immature heartworms.

Safety of Advocate for Cats

Approved Age and Weight Range for Use

Advocate is safe for kittens over 9 weeks old and cats weighing at least 1 kg. Always use the correct formulation based on your cat’s weight.

Understanding Possible Side Effects

Some cats might experience mild reactions like redness or temporary lethargy. Severe reactions are extremely rare but require immediate vet attention.

Safety Profile Compared to Other Products

Advocate is one of the safest parasite control options available, with fewer reported side effects compared to some oral medications.

How to Use Advocate on Cats

Dosage Instructions for Cats of Different Weights

Check the product packaging for the correct dosage based on your cat’s weight. Never use more than the recommended amount.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Part your cat’s fur at the back of their neck.

Squeeze the contents of the applicator directly onto their skin.
Avoid bathing your cat for 48 hours after application.

Tips for Hassle-Free Application

Choose a time when your cat is relaxed, and use treats to reward them afterward. Make it a positive experience for both of you.

Benefits of Using Advocate

All-in-One Parasite Control

With just one application, Advocate protects against multiple parasites, making it an efficient choice for busy pet owners.

Vet-Recommended for Long-Term Protection

Veterinarians frequently recommend Advocate for its proven efficacy and safety profile.

Easy Monthly Administration

A single monthly dose is all it takes to keep your cat parasite-free.

Advocate Alternatives for Cats

Comparing Advocate to Competitors

Products like Revolution and Frontline also offer parasite protection but may vary in coverage or ease of use.

Other Effective Products for Parasite Protection

Flea collars, oral medications, and natural remedies are other options. Consult your vet to choose the best fit for your cat.

Precautions When Using Advocate

Consulting Your Vet Before Use

Always check with your vet, especially if your cat has pre-existing conditions or is on other medications.

Avoiding Cross-Use Between Dogs and Cats

Never use Advocate for dogs on cats—it can be toxic due to differences in formulation.

Handling Overdose or Incorrect Application

If you suspect an overdose, watch for symptoms like drooling or tremors and contact your vet immediately.

Conclusion

Advocate is a safe, effective, and convenient solution for protecting cats from a wide range of parasites. When used correctly, it offers comprehensive protection, ensuring your furry friend stays happy and healthy. Always consult your vet before starting any new treatment to guarantee the best care for your cat.

FAQs

Is Advocate safe for kittens?
Yes, Advocate is safe for kittens over 9 weeks old and weighing at least 1 kg.

What should I do if my cat licks the application site?
Monitor your cat for symptoms like drooling or vomiting and contact your vet if needed.

How quickly does Advocate start working?
Advocate begins killing fleas within 12 hours and provides a full month of protection.

Can Advocate be used alongside other medications?
Consult your vet before combining Advocate with other treatments to avoid interactions.

How often should Advocate be applied to my cat?
Advocate should be applied once a month for continuous protection.