Advocate is a popular brand of flea and worm treatment for cats. It is a spot-on medication that provides comprehensive protection against fleas, ear mites, intestinal worms, and certain mites in cats. It is also known as “Advantage Multi” in some regions. Advocate combines two active ingredients: imidacloprid and moxidectin.
Benefits of Advocate for Cats
Flea Control: Advocate kills adult fleas present on the cat and prevents new infestations. It also disrupts the flea life cycle by inhibiting the development of flea larvae and eggs.
Heartworm Disease Prevention: This medication protects cats from heartworm disease, a potentially serious and sometimes fatal condition transmitted by mosquitoes. Advocate eliminates heartworm larvae that may have been transmitted to the cat and prevents their development into adult worms.
Intestinal Worm Treatment: Advocate is effective against several types of intestinal worms that commonly affect cats, including roundworms (Toxocara cati), hookworms (Ancylostoma tubaeforme). It kills and controls these parasites, helping to maintain the cat’s gastrointestinal health.
Ear Mite Treatment: Advocate treats and controls ear mite infestations (Otodectes cynotis), which can cause discomfort and irritation in cats.
Prevention of Other Parasites: In addition to fleas, heartworms, intestinal worms, and ear mites, Advocate may also have efficacy against certain other parasites, such as lice and some species of mites.
How to apply Advocate for Cats
When applying Advocate for Cats, it’s important to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns. Here are general steps on how to apply Advocate:
- Check the Package and Read the Instructions: Carefully read the package insert and instructions provided with Advocate for Cats. Ensure that you have the correct dosage for your cat’s weight and age.
- Prepare the Applicator: Advocate usually comes in pre-measured tubes. Remove one tube from the package and hold it upright.
- Part the Fur: Gently part the fur on the back of your cat’s neck, between the shoulder blades, to expose the skin. This area is usually harder for the cat to lick.
- Apply the Solution: Place the tip of the applicator on the skin and squeeze the tube to apply the solution directly to the skin. It’s important to apply it on the skin and not on the fur to ensure proper absorption.
- Repeat if Necessary: If the dosage requires multiple tubes, apply the remaining tubes in the same manner, following the instructions provided.
- Avoid Touching the Treated Area: Once the Advocate for Cats is applied, avoid touching the treated area until it is dry. This will prevent accidental transfer of the product to your skin or ingestion by your cat.
- Dispose of the Packaging: Safely dispose of the empty tube and packaging according to local guidelines. Do not reuse empty tubes.
- Wash Your Hands: After applying Advocate, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any residual product.
How it works
Advocate works through its two active ingredients: imidacloprid and moxidectin.
Imidacloprid:
Imidacloprid is an insecticide that targets and kills adult fleas on cats. When Advocate for Cats is applied to the skin, imidacloprid is absorbed into the cat’s bloodstream. Once fleas come into contact with the treated cat, imidacloprid affects their nervous system, leading to paralysis and ultimately causing their death. Imidacloprid is also effective in preventing flea eggs from hatching and larvae from developing, breaking the flea life cycle and reducing the population.
Moxidectin:
Moxidectin is an antiparasitic agent that provides broad-spectrum protection against various internal and external parasites in cats. It acts by interfering with the nervous system of parasites, causing paralysis and ultimately leading to their death.
Consult with a Veterinarian: Before using Advocate, consult with your veterinarian to determine if it is suitable for your cat. They will consider your cat’s health status, age, weight, and any potential interactions with other medications.
Application: Apply Advocate topically to the skin on the back of your cat’s neck, following the instructions provided. Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, or open wounds. Ensure your cat does not lick the application site until it is dry.
Monitor Your Cat: Keep a close eye on your cat after applying Advocate. Watch for any signs of adverse reactions or unusual behavior. If you notice anything concerning, contact your veterinarian.
Store Safely: Store Advocate for Cats in a safe place, away from children and pets, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Frequently asked questions about Advocate for Cats
What parasites does Advocate for Cats protect against?
Advocate provides protection against fleas, heartworms, ear mites, and several intestinal worms, including roundworms, and hookworms.
How often should Advocate be applied?
Advocate is typically applied once a month. Regular monthly application ensures continuous protection against parasites.
Can Advocate be used on kittens?
Advocate is approved for use in kittens over 9 weeks of age and weighing at least 2 pounds (approximately 0.9 kilograms).
Is Advocate safe for pregnant or lactating cats?
Advocate has been shown to be safe for use in pregnant and lactating cats. However, it’s advisable to consult with a veterinarian for guidance on the safe use of any medication during these stages.
Can Advocate for Cats be used alongside other medications?
It’s important to inform your veterinarian about any other medications or treatments your cat is receiving. They can determine if there are any potential interactions or if adjustments need to be made.
Are there any known side effects of Advocate?
While side effects are rare, some cats may experience mild and temporary skin reactions at the application site, such as hair loss, redness, itching, or irritation. Behavioral changes or temporary gastrointestinal upset may also occur in rare cases.
Can Advocate for Cats be used on dogs?
No, Advocate for Cats should never be used on dogs. The formulation and dosage are specifically designed for cats. Using Advocate for Cats on dogs can result in adverse effects.
Is Advocate effective against all types of ticks
Advocate primarily targets fleas, heartworms, ear mites, and intestinal worms. While it may have some efficacy against certain species of ticks,
Can Advocate be used on cats with compromised health?
Cats with compromised health may require special consideration. It’s best to consult with a veterinarian who can evaluate the cat’s condition and provide appropriate guidance on the use of Advocate or alternative treatments.
Can Advocate be used year-round?
Depending on your geographic location and local climate, year-round use of Advocate for Cats may be recommended to ensure continuous protection against parasites.
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