Bravecto for Cats

Bravecto is a topical flea and tick medication that protects cats from common cat parasites including the cat flea , black-legged ticks, and American dog ticks. This medication is available by prescription only for felines over 6 months that weigh more than 2.6 pounds. Bravecto is a topical medication, meaning it is applied directly to the skin and seeps into the tissue fluids under the skin's surface. When parasites bite the Bravecto-treated feline, they ingest the medication and start to die off within hours.

Dosage

Bravecto comes pre-dosed in single-use tubes and should be administered once every 12 weeks. Bravecto is available in 3 dosages for different weight groups:

• 2.6 – 6.2 pounds: one 112.5-milligram tube 

• >6.2 – 13.8 pounds: one 250-milligram tube

• >13.8 – 27.5 pounds: one 500-milligram tube

The dosage amount is 18.2 milligrams of fluralaner per pound of body weight. If your cat weighs more than 27.5 pounds, ask your vet for advice on measuring and applying the correct dosage.

Dosage instructions 

Giving this medication is very simple. First, you’ll open the pouch and remove the tube. Twist the tube cap to open the tip (keep in mind that the cap does not come off, so do not pull or pry on it).

Part your cat’s fur at the base of the skull and squeeze the tube’s contents onto the area. You will need to apply the entire tube. Do not touch the application site for a few days until the medication has time to absorb.

 The medication instructions advise against eating, drinking, smoking, or touching the eyes when administering this medication since it is harmful to humans. Wash your hands well after handling this medication.

Cost 

Bravecto ranges between $40 and $50 depending on the dosage and your cat's weight.

Efficacy

In a comprehensive study of flea-infested cats, Bravecto eliminated all fleas within 8 hours and continued to protect cats from fleas for 12 weeks. Bravecto was a little less effective against ticks, demonstrating 94% and 98% effectiveness against black-legged and dog ticks respectively within 48 hours of treatment. However, Bravecto’s effectiveness against ticks declined substantially after 8 weeks. In this same study, cats with flea allergy symptoms saw symptomatic improvement after treatment with Bravecto.  

Active ingredients

Fluralaner is the active ingredient in Bravecto for cats.  

Side effects 

The side effects of Bravecto for cats are usually mild, with itching being the most common. Other side effects of Bravecto for cats include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Itchy skin

• Diarrhea

• Hair loss

• Loss of appetite

• Lethargy

• Lesions or scabs

Considerations

There are some things to consider when giving Bravecto for cats. First, there are no studies of the safety of this drug in pregnant or nursing cats. Talk to your vet if your cat becomes pregnant while using this as a primary flea and tick preventative since there may be safer alternatives. 

Secondly, there are reports of facial dermatitis in humans after having contact with this medication after application — this is why it’s so important to wash your hands after handling this product. Moreover, this medication is a known eye and skin irritant. If accidentally you get Bravecto in your eyes, flush them with cold water immediately.

Thirdly, Bravecto topical liquid is a highly flammable product. Do not store or use it in the presence of sparks or an open flame. 

Drug interactions

According to Bravecto’s information pamphlet, there are no reports of drug interactions with this medication. 

Allergic reactions and sensitivity

There are reports of sensitivities with this medication. The FDA issued a warning in 2019 after a small percentage of felines became ataxic after taking Bravecto and other flea control products in the isoxazoline class. Ataxia is a condition categorized by loss of coordination and strange body posture. Specifically, the cat in the study had a head tilt which resolved after treatment with antibiotics. 

Frequently asked questions

How do you store Bravecto for cats?

You should store this medication in its original packaging in a cool, dry place below 77 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not open the pouch until you intend to use it. This medication is highly flammable, so do not store or use it near a direct flame. 

Can you buy Bravecto over the counter?

No, this medication is only available by prescription from a licensed veterinarian.

How often should I apply Bravecto to my cat?

Vets recommend that you give this medication every 3 months. 

How long does it take for Bravecto to start working?

Bravecto begins working within 2 hours. 

What is the difference between Bravecto and Bravecto plus?

Bravecto only protects cats against fleas and ticks, whereas Bravecto Plus also protects against heartworms, intestinal worms, and ear mites.

Got a question about Bravecto for cats? Submit it below, or chat with a vet now.