SelaSpot (selamectin) Topical for Cats

What is SelaSpot (selamectin) Topical for Cats?

SelaSpot™ (selamectin) for Adult Cats is a monthly, topical prescription medication designed to provide comprehensive protection against a wide range of internal and external parasites. The formula is absorbed systemically through the skin, where it circulates in the bloodstream and resides in the sebaceous glands to offer continuous defense for thirty days. It is specifically indicated to prevent heartworm disease, kill adult fleas and prevent flea eggs from hatching, and treat and control ear mites, roundworms, and hookworms.

Suitable for:

• Cats (Adults, weighing 5+ lbs)

Benefits:

• This macrocyclic lactone works by disrupting the nervous system of parasites, causing rapid paralysis and death through increased chloride ion permeability.
• This alcohol-based topical solution contains the active ingredient selamectin and the preservative BHT for long-term formula stability.
• It prevents heartworm disease while treating ear mites and controlling intestinal hookworm and roundworm infections.
• The adulticide, larvicide, and ovicidal properties break the flea life cycle for a full thirty days per application.
• The simple 'spot-on' application to the skin is waterproof and safe for cats within two hours of drying.

How does SelaSpot (selamectin) Topical for Cats work?

SelaSpot™ (selamectin) works by binding to glutamate-gated chloride channels in the nerve and muscle cells of parasites, causing a continuous influx of chloride ions. This disruption triggers the hyperpolarization of the parasite's nervous system, leading to rapid flaccid paralysis and death. In adult cats, the formula is highly bioavailable, circulating through the bloodstream and sebaceous glands to provide comprehensive protection while remaining safe for the feline central nervous system.

Caution:

It is vital to adhere to specific age and health guidelines to ensure a safe treatment experience. SelaSpot is not recommended for use in cats that are currently sick, debilitated, or significantly underweight. Additionally, because the formula contains alcohol, you should avoid applying the solution to broken or irritated skin to prevent stinging, and always ensure the pet’s haircoat is completely dry before application to allow for proper absorption. For human safety, avoid contact with skin and eyes during application, washing hands immediately with soap and water if contact occurs. Finally, because the solution is flammable, ensure it is kept away from heat, sparks, open flames, or other sources of ignition.

How should I store this product?

Keep the individual applicators in their original protective blister packaging until you are ready to use them. This protects the medication from light and moisture, which can cause the formula to break down. Store the product at or below 25˚C (77˚F).

What is the most important information I should know about SelaSpot?

SelaSpot (selamectin) Topical Parasiticide is available as a colorless to yellow, ready to use solution in single dose tubes for topical (dermal) treatment of cats eight weeks of age and older. The content of each tube is formulated to provide a minimum of 2.7 mg/lb (6 mg/kg) of body weight of selamectin. SelaSpot™ (selamectin) is a prescription-only medication that provides a full month of 'all-in-one' protection against both internal and external parasites.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving SelaSpot to my pet?

Before starting a monthly regimen, discuss whether a heartworm test is necessary to ensure your adult cat is not harboring an existing infection that the medication cannot treat. Because SelaSpot™ is a preventative, your veterinarian must confirm your pet is clear of adult worms to ensure the long-term safety and effectiveness of the product. You should also mention if your cat has access to the outdoors or lives with other animals, as these environmental factors significantly increase the risk of parasite exposure. If your cat is currently suffering from a heavy flea burden or ear mites, ask if a supplemental 'knock-down' treatment or manual cleaning is needed for more immediate relief.

How should SelaSpot be given/administered?

To apply SelaSpot, start by firmly pressing the cap down until you hear a click, which confirms the seal has been punctured, then remove the cap to verify the tip is open. Part the hair at the base of the neck until the skin is visible and squeeze the tube three or four times to dispense the entire contents in a single spot. While keeping the tube squeezed, drag it away from the liquid and lift to ensure it is completely empty. Do not massage the solution into the skin or apply it if the haircoat is wet or the skin is broken.

What are the potential side effects of SelaSpot?

In pre-approval clinical trials, roughly 1% of cats experienced temporary hair loss at the application site, occasionally accompanied by minor inflammation. Other reactions were rare, appearing in fewer than 0.5% of treated cats; these included gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea, as well as lethargy, salivation, rapid breathing, and muscle tremors. While extremely rare reports of death have occurred, the vast majority of pets tolerate the treatment without significant complications.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of SelaSpot?

If you miss a dose of SelaSpot™ (selamectin), apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not wait for the next scheduled date or 'double up' on doses to make up for the lapse.

What happens if I overdose my pet on SelaSpot?

If you have administered significantly more than prescribed call your veterinarian or a pet poison control center for guidance.

What special precautions are there?

If a pet ingests SelaSpot™ (selamectin), usually by licking the application site while it is still wet, they will likely experience heavy drooling or temporary vomiting due to the bitter taste and alcohol base. While these localized reactions are common and typically resolve once the taste is flushed out with water or food, the medication itself is formulated to be safe for mammals and rarely causes systemic toxicity. If your pet exhibits more severe signs such as extreme lethargy, muscle tremors, or a loss of balance, you should contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance.

What should I avoid while giving SelaSpot to my pet?

When administering SelaSpot™ (selamectin), you must avoid applying the solution to a wet haircoat or to skin that is broken, irritated, or wounded. To ensure the medication is not licked off, do not apply it to areas your pet can reach, and avoid massaging or rubbing the liquid into the skin after it is dispensed. Keep children and other household pets away from the treated area until it is completely dry to prevent accidental skin contact or ingestion. For maximum effectiveness, avoid bathing your pet or for at twenty-four hours for cats.

What other drugs will affect SelaSpot?

SelaSpot™ is a trusted treatment that works safely with most other pet medications. It’s designed to be used alongside common treatments like vaccines, antibiotics, steroids, and dewormers without any issues. For your pet’s safety, always check with your veterinarian before combining SelaSpot™ with other medications.