If you’re a pet owner, particularly of dogs or cats, you might have heard of mange, a skin disease caused by parasitic mites. One of the common concerns among pet owners is whether Advantage, a popular topical flea treatment, can effectively kill mange mites. To answer this question, we delve into the specifics of Advantage, its efficacy against mange, and other essential details.
Yes, Advantage Multi, a version of Advantage, can effectively kill mange mites. It is a broad-spectrum treatment that protects against both common internal and external parasites in dogs and cats, including scabies and demodectic mange mites. However, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian before using it on your pet.
What Is Advantage?
Advantage is a topical flea treatment for pets. The active ingredient, imidacloprid, kills fleas on contact, which means they don’t need to bite your pet for the product to work. The solution spreads quickly across your pet’s skin and coat, killing fleas within one day. As your pet naturally sheds their skin and fur, the active ingredient is also shed, providing continuous protection against fleas.
Understanding Mange
Mange is a type of skin disease caused by parasitic mites. In dogs, the two common types of mange are sarcoptic mange and demodectic mange. Sarcoptic mange, also known as scabies, is highly contagious and causes severe itching, redness, rash, and hair loss. Demodectic mange, on the other hand, is caused by Demodex mites that live in the hair follicles of dogs and is not contagious.
Does Advantage Kill Mange Mites?
Advantage Multi, which contains imidacloprid and moxidectin, can effectively kill mange mites. It is a broad-spectrum treatment that protects against both common internal and external parasites in dogs and cats. Advantage Multi is effective in treating scabies and demodectic mange, as well as ear mites.
Comparing Advantage to Other Mange Treatments
When comparing Advantage Multi to other treatments for mange, it’s important to note that other treatments, such as NexGard, NexGard Spectra, and Bravecto, are also effective for sarcoptic mange. While Advantage Multi is an effective treatment for sarcoptic mange, the efficacy of Advantage Multi in treating demodectic mange is not explicitly mentioned in the search results.
Side Effects of Advantage
Potential side effects of using Advantage Multi for mange treatment in dogs include hematochezia, diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, inappetence, pyoderma, temporary hair loss, inflammation or scabs at or near the application site, itchiness, coughing, ocular discharge, and nasal discharge. More serious side effects include depression, salivation, dilated pupils, incoordination, panting, and generalized muscle tremors.
Precautions When Using Advantage
Advantage Multi is a prescription medication, and it’s important to consult your veterinarian before using it on your dog. Make sure your dog doesn’t ingest the product, and keep children away from the application site for two hours after application. Use caution with sick, debilitated, or underweight animals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Advantage Multi can be an effective treatment for mange, particularly sarcoptic mange, but it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the best course of action for your pet. Monitoring for side effects and taking the necessary precautions can ensure the safe and effective use of Advantage Multi for mange treatment in your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the active ingredient in Advantage Multi that helps kill mange mites?
The active ingredient in Advantage Multi that helps kill mange mites is moxidectin.
How often should I apply Advantage Multi for mange treatment?
Advantage Multi should be applied once a month, or as directed by your veterinarian.
Can Advantage Multi be used on cats for mange treatment?
Yes, Advantage Multi can be used on cats. However, it’s important to consult your veterinarian before using the product.
Can Advantage Multi be used on puppies or kittens?
Advantage Multi can be used on puppies and kittens, but they should be at least 7 weeks old and weigh at least 3 lbs for puppies and 2 lbs for kittens.
Are there any precautions to take when applying Advantage Multi?
Yes, you should avoid getting the product in the pet’s eyes or mouth and ensure children do not come into contact with the application site for two hours after application.
Can I use Advantage Multi if my pet is pregnant or lactating?
It’s recommended to consult with your veterinarian before using Advantage Multi on pregnant or lactating pets.