Stronghold Plus for Cats - Dosage and Side Effects

Stronghold plus is an antiparasitic product that is composed of a combination of two macrocyclic lactones, selamectin and sarolaner:

• Selamectin: this compound is a type of avermectin that is responsible for killing and/or paralyzing various parasitic invertebrates. It works by interfering with their chlorine channel conductibilities, in turn this results in normal neurotransmission being interrupted. This affects the electrical activity of the muscle cells of arthropods and the nerve cells of nematodes, resulting in paralysis. Since they cannot function, the parasites die. In this regard, selamectin is particularly effective in disrupting the lifecycle of parasites, making it a valuable component in managing and preventing infestations.
  
  
• Sarolaner: this active ingredient of Stronghold Plus for cats is an isoxazoline. Its action against parasites is the blocking of chloride channel function. These channels are linked to glutamate and GABA receptors in the nervous system of parasites. Sarolaner produces an increase in nervous stimulation, resulting in their death. Moreover, this compound has shown efficacy in targeting a broad spectrum of parasites, making it a crucial element in comprehensive parasite control.

As we have stated already, this preventive drug works for both internal and external parasites. We discuss this further below, but you can also learn about the most common external parasites in cats with our related article.

Stronghold Plus is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic product for feline species. This means it kills and protects against a wide range of parasites. This is contrasted against other anthelmintic and insecticidal drugs which only kill a certain species or type. For this reason, Stronghold Plus is effective against the following parasites:

• Fleas: such as Ctenocephalides felis and Ctenocephalides canis with activity against eggs, larval forms and adults. This means it breaks the life cycle of the flea and can help eradicate infestations. In addition, skin flakes from the cat with Stronghold Plus kill the eggs and larvae of fleas in the environment upon contact. This activity begins 24 hours after application and lasts 5 weeks. Consequently, using Stronghold Plus regularly can significantly reduce the presence of fleas in your cat’s environment, thus offering a protective shield against reinfestation.
  
  
• Mites: such as Otodectes cynotis. It's crucial to note that mite infestations can lead to secondary infections if not treated promptly, hence the importance of an effective treatment like Stronghold Plus.
  
  
• Lice: such as Felicola subrostratus. Lice infestations, although less common, can cause significant discomfort and irritation to your feline companion, making prevention and treatment essential.
  
  
• Intestinal nematodes: such as hookworms (e.g. Ancylostoma tubaeforme) and roundworms (Toxocara cati). Learn more about the different types of worms in cats. These parasites can cause weight loss, digestive issues, and poor coat condition in cats, emphasizing the need for effective preventive measures.
  
  
• Filaria larvae: such as Dirofilaria immitis. This is a parasite known as heartworm which can be potentially fatal and is also controlled by other drugs such as Milbemax for cats. Protecting against heartworm is vital, especially in areas where mosquitoes, the carriers of this parasite, are prevalent.
  
  
• Ticks: such as Ixodes ricinus, Ixodes hexagonus, Rhipicephalus sanguineus and Dermacentor reticulatus. Ticks can transmit a variety of diseases, making their control an important aspect of overall feline health care.

There are various preparations of antiparasitic dewormers for cats, but Stronghold Plus comes as a pipette. This allows us to squeeze the liquid medication onto the skin of the cat. This is absorbed into the follicles to provide protection against external parasites, as well as entering the bloodstream for internal parasite protection.

Stronghold Plus pipettes are most effective when applied to the dorsal area of the neck between the shoulders. This is because the cat cannot reach this area for grooming, so the product has time to absorb and spread across their body. It is applied in a single application with the appropriate format according to the weight of the cat. Ensuring the correct application site is crucial for maximizing the efficacy of the medication.

Stronghold Plus for cats dosage

• Cats weighing less than 2.5 kg: a 0.25 ml pipette containing 15 mg of selamectin and 2.5 mg of sarolaner.
• Cats weighing 2.5-5 kg: a 0.5 ml pipette containing 30 mg selamectin and 5 mg sarolaner is used.
• Cats weighing between 5-10 kg: a 1 ml pipette containing 60 mg of selamectin and 10 mg of sarolaner.

To apply this Stronghold Plus pipette correctly, you will have to remove it from the packaging and separate the hair in the application area until the skin is visible. This is the area between the shoulder blades at the base of the neck. Once we have done this, we will have to apply the tip of the pipette until its entire contents are emptied into a single point. It should be noted that regular application as prescribed by a veterinarian can help maintain your cat's health and prevent the establishment of parasitic infestations.

Discover another type of deworming agent for felines with our article on ivermectin for cats.

Within 24 hours of applying Stronghold plus, caking of the hair may occur. We may also see dry white or greasy deposits in the application area. Although it does not usually cause adverse effects, this medication may cause temporary itching at the application site that may be accompanied by mild to moderate alopecia and erythema. It should be noted that regular observation of the application area can help identify any unusual reactions early.

In very rare occasions, cats may also drool or have neurological signs such as ataxia or epilepsy. Gastrointestinal signs such as diarrhea, anorexia or vomiting are likely if the product is ingested orally. Owners should ensure that the application site is not accessible for licking until the product has dried to prevent such occurrences.

Learn more about the causes of diarrhea and vomiting in cats.

As with all other veterinary medicines, Stronghold Plus has certain contraindications for use. They include the following:

• Do not use in underweight or weak cats
• Do not use in cats that are suffering from or being treated for any pathological process
• Do not apply to cats with known allergy or hypersensitivity to the active ingredients or excipients
• Do not use in pregnant or lactating cats

Although selamectin is considered safe for use in pregnant or lactating felines, its safety has not been proven for sarolaner. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian before using this product in such circumstances.

Stronghold Plus is a great broad-spectrum deworming treatment for cats, but it is not effective against all types of parasite. For example, the literature does not provide information about its protection against giardia in cats. Thus, consulting your veterinarian for comprehensive parasite management is always recommended.

This article is purely informative. AnimalWised does not have the authority to prescribe any veterinary treatment or create a diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian if they are suffering from any condition or pain.

If you want to read similar articles to Stronghold Plus for Cats - Dosage and Side Effects, we recommend you visit our Medicine category.