Moxidectin for Dogs and Cats

With all of the different types of flea, tick, and heartworm medications available for dogs and cats it’s sometimes difficult to keep track of the ingredients and which parasites they treat. Moxidectin is found in multiple products including Simparica Trio for Dogs, Advantage Multi for Cats, Advantage Multi for Dogs, and Bravecto Plus for Cats. Moxidectin is used in dogs and cats to prevent heartworm disease and treat and control infections of intestinal parasites including roundworms, and hookworms. Moxidectin itself does not kill fleas or ticks, but it is often combined with other active ingredients in topical and oral products that provide broad-spectrum protection against a host of parasites.

How Does Moxidectin Work?

Moxidectin is labeled for the prevention of heartworm disease in dogs and cats. It is important to know that Moxidectin only prevents heartworm disease and does not treat existing heartworm infections. This is because it is only effective in killing immature heartworm larvae (Dirofilaria immitis) and does not kill the adult heartworms found in animals with existing infections. It also treats and controls infections of intestinal parasites including hookworms and roundworms.

Products with Moxidectin

 

Does it Require a Prescription?

Products containing Moxidectin require a prescription from a veterinarian because of their ability to prevent heartworm disease. The American Heartworm Society and most veterinarians recommend an annual heartworm test before prescribing a heartworm preventative for your dog or cat. This is because dogs and cats with existing heartworm infections can have serious complications after taking preventatives. Learn more.

It is always recommended to speak with your veterinarian about the right parasite preventative product for your dog or cat’s needs. Your veterinarian can recommend the best product for your dog or cat based on your location and the type of parasites they may encounter.

 


This information is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease and is purely educational. Please seek advice from your pet’s veterinarian with any questions regarding the health of your pet.