SelaSpot (selamectin) Topical for Puppies & Kittens

What is SelaSpot (selamectin) Topical for Puppies & Kittens?

SelaSpot™ (selamectin) for Puppies and Kittens is a prescription topical parasiticide specifically formulated for young pets weighing up to 5 lbs, starting as early as 6 weeks for puppies and 8 weeks for kittens. This broad-spectrum solution is absorbed systemically into the bloodstream and sebaceous glands to provide a full month of continuous protection against both internal and external threats. It is specifically indicated for the prevention of heartworm disease, the treatment and control of flea infestations (including eggs and larvae), and the elimination of ear mites, while also addressing hookworms and roundworms in kittens or sarcoptic mange and ticks in puppies.

Suitable for:

• Puppies (6 weeks of age or older, weighing up to 5lbs)
• Cats (8 weeks of age or older, weighing up to 5lbs)

Benefits:

• The active agent targets the parasite's nervous system, inducing paralysis and death by increasing the flow of chloride ions into nerve cells.
• Formulated with active selamectin, isopropyl alcohol, and BHT, it is safe for puppies from 6 weeks and kittens from 8 weeks.
• It prevents heartworm disease while eliminating ear mites and controlling flea infestations to ensure healthy growth in young pets.
• The low-volume 0.25 mL dose is specifically measured to prevent overexposure in animals weighing under 5 lbs.
• A single, non-greasy topical spot-on application provides 30 days of protection and is waterproof just two hours after use.

How does SelaSpot (selamectin) Topical for Puppies & Kittens work?

The clinical mechanism of SelaSpot™ (selamectin) involves binding to glutamate-gated chloride channels in the nerve and muscle cells of parasites, causing an influx of chloride ions. This influx leads to the hyperpolarization of the parasite's nervous system, resulting in rapid, flaccid paralysis and eventual death. Because these specific channels are absent in mammals and the medication does not easily cross the blood-brain barrier, it provides targeted protection that is safe for young puppies and kittens.

Caution:

Before administering SelaSpot, it is essential to have puppies tested for existing heartworm infections, as the medication is not effective against adult D. immitis or for the total clearance of circulating microfilariae. At the veterinarian's discretion, infected puppies should be treated to remove adult heartworms prior to starting a preventative regimen. While hypersensitivity reactions have not been observed in heartworm-positive puppies at three times the recommended dose, safety at higher levels has not been tested. For kittens, ensure they are at least 8 weeks of age and in good general health before application, as the product's safety has not been evaluated in those that are sick, debilitated, or underweight. 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 dogs six weeks of age and older and 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 treatment, consult your veterinarian to confirm that your puppy is at least six weeks old or your kitten is at least eight weeks old, as the product’s safety is only established for healthy pets meeting these age and weight requirements. It is equally important to conduct a diagnostic heartworm screening to ensure your pet does not have an existing infection, as SelaSpot™ is a preventative and will not treat adult heartworms. Additionally, your vet can determine if a current infestation of fleas or ear mites requires a supplemental 'knock-down' treatment alongside the initial dose 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 and dogs; these included gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea, as well as lethargy, salivation, rapid breathing, and muscle tremors. Since the product's release, additional reports have noted instances of itching, hives, and redness, along with rare cases of incoordination, fever, or seizures in dogs. 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 allowing them to swim for at least two hours for dogs and 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.