Dealing with ear mites in your cat can be a real hassle. You want something that works, but you also want to be sure it’s safe. Recently, NexGard COMBO for cats has been mentioned as a possible solution for ear mites, even though it’s not its main advertised use. Let’s break down what this treatment is all about and how it might help your feline friend.
Key Takeaways
- NexGard COMBO for cats is primarily for preventing heartworms and treating fleas, ticks, and certain worms, but vets may use it off-label for ear mites.
- The active ingredients in NexGard COMBO work by affecting the nervous system of parasites, leading to paralysis and death.
- It’s applied topically to the skin on the back of your cat’s neck, where they can’t reach it to lick.
- While generally safe, potential side effects include drooling, vomiting, lethargy, and in rare cases, neurological issues like tremors or seizures.
- NexGard COMBO is a prescription medication, meaning you’ll need to see a vet to get it, and it should be stored properly away from light and moisture.
Understanding NexGard® COMBO for Cats
NexGard® COMBO is a topical treatment designed for cats, offering protection against a range of internal and external parasites. It’s a prescription medication, meaning you’ll need to chat with your veterinarian to get it for your feline friend. This medication is applied directly to the skin, usually between the shoulder blades where your cat can’t easily lick it off. It’s formulated to be effective for cats and kittens that weigh at least 1.8 pounds and are eight weeks or older. The active ingredients work by targeting the nervous systems of parasites, leading to their paralysis and eventual death. This makes it a pretty potent tool in keeping your cat healthy and parasite-free.
What NexGard® COMBO Is For Cats
NexGard® COMBO is primarily prescribed for cats to prevent heartworm disease and to treat and prevent infections from roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. It also tackles fleas and two specific types of ticks: the black-legged tick and the lone star tick. It’s important to know that while its main uses are listed on the packaging, veterinarians sometimes recommend it for other issues, like ear mites, which we’ll get into later. This medication is a topical solution, meaning it’s applied to the skin, and it’s generally given once a month. You can find more details about its approved uses on the NexGard COMBO product page.
How NexGard® COMBO Works in Cats
This medication contains three active ingredients: esafoxolaner, eprinomectin, and praziquantel. Esafoxolaner is part of a group of drugs called isoxazolines, which are known for their effectiveness against fleas and ticks. It works by overstimulating the nervous system of these external parasites, causing them to become paralyzed and die. Eprinomectin targets internal parasites like worms. It disrupts their nervous systems by causing an electrolyte imbalance, leading to paralysis and death. Lastly, praziquantel is specifically for tapeworms. It makes the tapeworm’s skin permeable, causing it to die and then be broken down by the cat’s digestive system. It’s a multi-pronged attack against a variety of common feline pests.
NexGard® COMBO as an Ear Mite Treatment
Extra-Label Use for Ear Mites
So, NexGard® COMBO is primarily known for tackling fleas, ticks, and various worms in cats. But, it turns out, vets sometimes use it for other things too, like ear mites. This is called ‘extra-label’ or ‘off-label’ use. It just means the medication is being used in a way that isn’t specifically listed on the product’s label, or for a species not listed. Your vet is the one who decides if this is a good option for your cat’s ear mite problem. They’ll look at your cat’s specific situation to see if NexGard® COMBO is the right fit. It’s always best to chat with your vet about these kinds of treatments, as they know your pet best.
Effectiveness Against Ear Mites
While NexGard® COMBO isn’t officially approved for ear mites, many vets have found it to be effective when used off-label. The active ingredients, like esafoxolaner, work by affecting the nervous system of parasites, leading to paralysis and death. This mechanism is thought to be effective against ear mites as well. It’s important to remember that the effectiveness can vary, and it’s not a guaranteed cure for every cat. Always follow your veterinarian’s specific instructions when using any medication, especially for off-label purposes. They can guide you on what to expect and how to monitor your cat’s progress. For more information on what NexGard® COMBO is generally used for, you can check out NexGard Combo for Cats.
Using medications off-label means your vet is using their professional judgment based on scientific evidence and their experience. It’s a common practice in veterinary medicine when a labeled treatment isn’t available or suitable.
Administering NexGard® COMBO
Getting NexGard® COMBO onto your cat is pretty straightforward, but you do need to do it correctly to make sure it works and your cat doesn’t get too much on themselves. It’s a topical treatment, meaning it goes on the skin, not in the mouth.
Application Instructions for Cats
First things first, you’ll want to part your cat’s fur. Find a spot on the back of their neck, right between the shoulder blades. This is a good place because cats generally can’t reach it to lick it off. Once you’ve got the fur parted, apply the liquid directly to the exposed skin. It’s important to apply it to the skin, not just the fur. If your cat needs a second dose (which depends on their weight), you’ll apply the second dose in the same spot, the same way. Just make sure you avoid the application site for about four hours after you put it on, as it needs time to dry and absorb properly. Don’t let your cat or any other pets lick the spot while it’s wet.
Dosage and Frequency
NexGard® COMBO is typically given once a month, year-round. It’s formulated for cats that are at least eight weeks old and weigh 1.8 pounds or more. Always follow the specific instructions from your veterinarian or the product packaging. Giving it consistently each month is key for ongoing protection.
Missed Doses
Life happens, and sometimes you might miss a dose. If you forget to apply NexGard® COMBO, the best thing to do is contact your veterinarian. They’ll likely tell you to apply it as soon as you remember and then get back on your regular monthly schedule. Just don’t give a double dose to try and make up for the missed one. That could cause problems.
It’s really important to stick to the monthly schedule for NexGard® COMBO. This ensures your cat stays protected against the parasites it’s designed to treat, including ear mites when used as directed by your vet. Consistency is key for effective parasite control.
Safety and Side Effects of NexGard® COMBO
When using NexGard® COMBO for your cat, it’s good to know what to expect regarding safety and potential side effects. Most cats handle this medication really well, but like with any treatment, there are a few things to watch out for.
Common Side Effects in Cats
While not super common, some cats might show mild reactions. These can include things like:
- Vomiting
- Changes in the fur at the spot where you apply the medication
- A decrease in appetite
- Feeling a bit sluggish or less energetic (lethargy)
It’s also possible for cats to drool a lot if they accidentally get the medication in their mouth or lick the application site before it dries. Just keep an eye on your cat after application.
Neurological Side Effects
There’s a small chance of neurological side effects, especially with medications in this drug class. If your cat has a history of seizures or any other neurological issues, it’s extra important to be aware of this. Signs to watch for include:
- Muscle tremors
- Trouble with balance or walking
- Seizures
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian right away. It’s always best to err on the side of caution when it comes to your pet’s health.
Human Safety Precautions
This medication is strictly for cats, not for people! Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after applying NexGard® COMBO. Be careful not to get it in your eyes; if you do, rinse them well with water. If you accidentally ingest the medication or get it on your skin, it’s a good idea to call your doctor or the Poison Control Center.
Keep all pet medications stored safely and out of reach of children and other pets. Never share medications between pets or use human medications on your cat.
Remember, NexGard® COMBO is a prescription medication, so always follow your vet’s specific instructions. If you have any concerns about side effects or how to use the product, your veterinarian is the best resource. You can find more information about NexGard COMBO topical treatment for cats on their website.
Important Considerations for NexGard® COMBO
When you’re using NexGard® COMBO for your feline friend, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure it’s used safely and effectively. It’s not just a matter of applying it and forgetting about it; there are some important details to consider.
Veterinary Prescription Requirement
First off, NexGard® COMBO is a prescription medication. This means you can’t just pick it up at the store like you might some other pet products. You’ll need to get it from your veterinarian. They’ll assess your cat’s health and determine if NexGard® COMBO is the right choice for them, especially if you’re considering it for ear mites, which is an extra-label use. Working with your vet is key to making sure your cat gets the best care.
Storage Recommendations
Proper storage is also pretty important. You should keep NexGard® COMBO at room temperature, specifically between 59–86°F (15–30°C). It’s okay if it gets a little warmer for a short time, up to 104°F (40°C), but you don’t want to store it in really hot places. Always keep the medication in its original packaging, like the blister pack, until you’re ready to use it. This helps protect it from moisture and light, which can affect its potency. And, of course, keep it out of reach of both children and other pets.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
There are definitely times when you should reach out to your vet. If you notice any severe side effects after applying NexGard® COMBO, like extreme lethargy, vomiting, or any unusual neurological signs such as loss of balance or tremors, you need to call your vet right away. Also, if your cat’s condition doesn’t seem to be improving, or if you suspect they might have gotten too much of the medication, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Your vet is your best resource for any questions or concerns you might have about using NexGard® COMBO for your cat.
Wrapping Up: NexGard Combo for Your Cat’s Ear Mites
So, if your cat is dealing with those pesky ear mites, NexGard Combo could be a good option to talk about with your vet. It’s a prescription treatment, meaning you’ll need to get it from your veterinarian, who can also guide you on the right way to use it for your specific cat. While it’s approved for other things, vets sometimes use it for ear mites too, which is called ‘extra-label’ use. Just remember to follow your vet’s advice closely and keep an eye out for any changes in your cat after using it. It’s always best to have a chat with your vet to make sure it’s the right choice for your furry friend’s health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is NexGard COMBO for cats?
NexGard COMBO is a special liquid treatment applied to your cat’s skin, usually on the back of their neck. It’s designed to fight off nasty pests like fleas, ticks, heartworms, and different types of worms. While it’s mainly for those issues, vets sometimes use it to help cats with ear mites too, even though it’s not listed on the label for that specific problem.
How does NexGard COMBO get rid of ear mites?
NexGard COMBO works by using powerful ingredients that target the nervous systems of fleas, ticks, and worms. These ingredients cause paralysis and then death to the pests. For ear mites, it’s used in a way not originally written on the package, but vets have found it can be effective in clearing them out.
Can NexGard COMBO be used to treat ear mites in cats?
Yes, NexGard COMBO can be used to treat ear mites in cats. This is called ‘extra-label’ or ‘off-label’ use, meaning vets can prescribe it for conditions not specifically mentioned on the product’s instructions. Your vet will decide if this is the best option for your cat’s ear mite problem.
How should I apply NexGard COMBO to my cat?
You’ll apply the liquid directly to your cat’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades where they can’t lick it off. It’s important to part the fur to get it onto the skin. Always follow your vet’s specific instructions on how much to use and how often.
Are there any side effects I should know about?
NexGard COMBO is generally safe for most cats. However, some might experience mild side effects like drooling if they lick the application spot, or less commonly, vomiting, changes in their fur, not wanting to eat, or seeming tired. In rare cases, more serious issues like tremors or difficulty walking can occur, so it’s crucial to tell your vet if you notice anything unusual.
Do I need a prescription to buy NexGard COMBO for my cat?
You absolutely need a prescription from your veterinarian to get NexGard COMBO. It’s not something you can buy over the counter. Your vet needs to examine your cat and confirm the diagnosis before prescribing it, especially if it’s for ear mites.
