How long does it take for Bravecto to work on cats? - briefly
Bravecto is designed to provide immediate and continuous protection against fleas and ticks in cats. The active ingredient begins working within hours of administration, effectively killing parasites within 12-24 hours.
How long does it take for Bravecto to work on cats? - in detail
The effectiveness of Bravecto in cats is determined by several factors, including the type of parasite and the cat's physiological response to the medication. Bravecto is a topical solution that contains fluralaner, an insecticide and acaricide that works by binding to specific receptors in the nervous system of parasites, leading to their paralysis and eventual death.
Upon application, Bravecto begins to take effect relatively quickly. The active ingredient, fluralaner, is absorbed into the cat's bloodstream within 24-48 hours after administration. Once in the bloodstream, it distributes throughout the body, including the skin and hair follicles, where many parasites reside.
The onset of action varies depending on the type of parasite:
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Fleas: Bravecto starts killing fleas within 8 hours of application and provides 100% efficacy against new infestations for up to 12 weeks. This rapid action is due to the high concentration of fluralaner in the cat's bloodstream, which quickly reaches lethal levels for fleas.
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Ticks: The onset of action against ticks is slower compared to fleas. Bravecto begins killing ticks within 48 hours of application and provides effective control for up to 12 weeks. This delayed response is because ticks feed more slowly than fleas, allowing the cat's bloodstream to reach a higher concentration of fluralaner before it becomes lethal to the tick.
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Mites: Bravecto also effectively controls mites, with an onset of action similar to that of fleas. It starts killing mites within 8 hours and provides continuous control for up to 12 weeks.
It is essential to note that while Bravecto begins working quickly, the complete elimination of parasites may take longer depending on the size and severity of the infestation. In some cases, it may take several days or even a couple of weeks to see a significant reduction in the number of parasites. However, with consistent use as directed by your veterinarian, Bravecto offers reliable protection against fleas, ticks, and mites for cats.
In summary, Bravecto starts working within 8-48 hours after application, depending on the type of parasite. It provides continuous control and prevention of reinfestations for up to 12 weeks, making it an effective and convenient option for managing common feline parasites. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice tailored to your cat's specific needs.