Credelio: A Trusted Vet-Recommended Flea Treatment for Cats
When it comes to protecting your feline companion from the discomfort and health risks posed by fleas and ticks, choosing a safe and effective product is crucial. Credelio for cats is a highly regarded veterinary-recommended option that offers monthly oral protection, ensuring peace of mind for pet owners and comfort for their pets.
What is Credelio?
Credelio is an oral chewable flea and tick prescription medication formulated for cats using the active ingredient lotilaner. As a member of the isoxazoline class, lotilaner inhibits GABA-gated channels in the nervous systems of insects, leading to paralysis and death. It offers a targeted approach with minimal risk to mammals, making it generally safe for cats.
Approved Uses
- Treats and prevents flea infestations in cats and kittens 8 weeks or older, weighing at least 2 pounds.
- Controls black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis) infestations in cats and kittens 6 months or older, weighing at least 2 pounds.
Dosage and Administration
Credelio comes in flavored tablets, designed to be taken once monthly with food. Proper administration enhances drug absorption and efficacy. Dosage is based on your cat’s weight:
- 12 mg for cats weighing 2–4 pounds
- 48 mg for cats weighing 4.1–17 pounds
- Cats over 17 pounds should receive an appropriate combination of tablets
Kittens should be weighed monthly to ensure correct dosing during growth phases.
Efficacy and Speed of Action
Clinical studies have shown outstanding results:
- Starts killing fleas within 6 hours
- Eliminates more than 98% of fleas by 12 hours
- 100% flea kill within 24 hours
- High efficacy sustained for one month
Credelio also interrupts the flea life cycle by killing fleas before they can lay eggs, providing preventive benefits in addition to treatment.
Tick Control
Credelio offers robust protection against black-legged ticks:
- Over 97% effective against ticks after 72 hours
- Protection lasts up to 31 days
- Does not cover all tick species
It’s important to consult your vet to determine if Credelio is suitable depending on tick exposure risk in your area.
Safety Profile
Credelio is generally well tolerated in cats. Common side effects include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Reduced appetite
- Increased breathing rate (tachypnea)
These symptoms are usually mild and transient. Rare but more serious neurological effects like tremors or seizures may occur, especially in cats predisposed to such conditions. Credelio should be used with caution in cats with a history of neurological disorders.
Drug Interactions and Contraindications
- No significant interactions with vaccines, antibiotics, NSAIDs, anesthetics, or dewormers.
- Avoid using with other isoxazoline-containing products.
- Not recommended for breeding, pregnant, or lactating cats.
- Do not use in cats with known hypersensitivity to lotilaner.
Administration Tips
- Give with food or within 30 minutes post-feeding.
- If a dose is missed, administer as soon as possible and continue monthly afterward.
- Do not double dose.
Storage Information
- Store in original packaging at 59–77°F (15–25°C)
- Short-term tolerance to 41–104°F (5–40°C)
- Keep out of reach of children and pets
Acceptability
Many cats accept Credelio readily due to its flavor. For finicky eaters, it may be administered directly by mouth or hidden in food.
Veterinary Guidance
Credelio is available by prescription only. Annual or more frequent vet consultations are recommended to ensure the product continues to meet your pet's needs. Year-round administration is advised for optimal flea and tick control.
Conclusion
Credelio stands out as a vet-recommended, effective, and safe flea and tick treatment for cats. With its monthly oral dosing, rapid kill rate, and favorable safety profile, Credelio offers a reliable solution to protect your feline family member from harmful parasites. As always, discuss with your veterinarian whether Credelio is the right fit for your cat’s health and lifestyle.
