Advocate is a monthly spot-on for large cats (4-8kg) that treats and prevents fleas, ear mites and certain worm infections, and helps prevent heartworm disease, in a single easy-to-apply dose.
Composition: Imidacloprid 10% w/v (a neonicotinoid insecticide) and Moxidectin 1% w/v (a macrocyclic lactone), in a 0.8ml pipette.
Indications: Flea infestation (including flea larvae in the environment); ear mites; heartworm disease prevention; certain intestinal roundworm infections; supportive management of feline lungworm (Aelurostrongylus abstrusus).
Dosage: One 0.8ml pipette applied topically once a month, matched to the cat's 4-8kg weight band.
Directions for use: Part the fur at the back of the neck at the base of the skull until the skin is visible, then apply the full pipette contents directly to the skin.
How does the medicine work? : Imidacloprid targets the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the flea's nervous system, causing paralysis and death, while moxidectin is absorbed systemically and disrupts nerve signalling in heartworm larvae, mites and certain intestinal worms - together the combination is not absorbed into the bloodstream itself, remaining active in the skin's oil glands and hair follicles.
Possible side effects: Rare skin sensitisation or transient reactions (numbness, irritation, burning/tingling) are possible at the application site. People with known hypersensitivity to benzyl alcohol, imidacloprid or moxidectin should handle with caution.
