Ectoparasiticides

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Ectoparasiticides are used to treat or prevent ectoparasitic infestations such as fleas, ticks, mange mites, ear mites, lice, and sandflies. It is important that these parasites are kept under control, for example some animals may be allergic to flea saliva so that a flea bite will cause the animal to become very itchy and irritable (flea allergy dermatitis). Also, in certain countries, some ectoparasites carry diseases that may be transmitted to your pet.

It is very important to keep your pet's housing dry and clean. You may need to use a product to kill fleas in the environment. To prevent flystrike, make sure there are no wet or sore areas around the animal's bottom.

There are many different ectoparasitic preparations available. For example, preparations to control fleas can work by killing adult fleas on the animal or in the animal's environment, or can prevent the juvenile stages of the flea developing.

There are different methods of applying ectoparasiticides to your pet such as spot-on, in-feed, as an injection, sprays, foams, shampoos, and collars. Your veterinarian will advise you which preparation to use to suit you and your pet.

Some products can be used on dogs, cats or rabbits. However some products may be poisonous for certain animals. Read the label and only use a product licensed for the species intended.

How do I give this medication?

- Apply this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.

- DO NOT apply more medication than directed and DO NOT apply more often than directed.

- Have a reminder system in place to indicate when the next treatment should be given.

- Make sure that the product does not contaminate food, water or feed.

- Wash your hands after applying the medication.

- For sprays and spot-ons, you should avoid contact with the animal or the treated area until the medication is dry.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Apply the dose as soon as possible. Contact your veterinarian if you have missed applying the dose by more than a few days. Do not apply two doses at once.

How do I store and dispose of this medicine?

Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat, open flame and direct sunlight. Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture. Dispose of used packaging in your household waste.

Potential side effects

- There are very few side effects when ectoparasiticides are given at the usual dose. Tell your veterinarian how old your pet is and if you think your pet is pregnant. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Possible drug interactions

- Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.

- Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, even if a drug interaction may occur. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.

- Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.