Safety and efficacy of a new spot-on formulation of selamectin plus sarolaner in the treatment and control of naturally occurring flea infestations in cats presented as veterinary patients in Australia

Abstract

Background: The safety and efficacy of a new spot-on formulation of selamectin plus sarolaner were evaluated for the treatment and control of natural flea infestations on cats in two non-randomised, multi-centre clinical trials conducted in 8 different locations in Queensland, Australia. Methods: One hundred and four cats from 65 different households were enrolled across the two studies. Demographic characteristics of cats in the two studies were similar. The new spot-on formulation of selamectin and sarolaner was administered topically once a month for 3 consecutive months at a minimum dosage of 6 mg/kg selamectin (dose range 6-12 mg/kg) plus 1 mg/kg sarolaner (dose range 1-2 mg/kg). Cats were dosed on Days 0 (pre-treatment), 30 and 60 and physical examinations and flea counts were conducted on Days 0, 30, 60 and 90. Efficacy assessments were based on the percentage reduction in live flea counts post-treatment compared to Day 0. Results: In Study A, at enrolment, primary cats had flea counts ranging from 6 to 107 (arithmetic mean 21.0). The selamectin and sarolaner spot-on formulation resulted in arithmetic mean efficacy of 98.0%, 100% and 100% on Days 30, 60 and 90, respectively. In Study B, at enrolment, primary cats had flea counts ranging from 6 to 22 (arithmetic mean 10.0). The selamectin and sarolaner spot-on formulation resulted in arithmetic mean efficacy of 99.7%, 100% and 100% on Days 30, 60 and 90, respectively. Conclusions: The new spot-on formulation of selamectin plus sarolaner topically administered at monthly intervals at the minimum dosage of 6.0 mg/kg selamectin and 1.0 mg/kg sarolaner was safe and highly effective against natural infestations of fleas under a range of geographical conditions, representative of both tropical and subtropical regions of Australia.

Effectiveness of a fluralaner spot-on formulation in a case of feline demodicosis due to Demodex cati

“…The most common adverse effects reported in cats are vomiting, pruritus, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and alopecia at the site of application. [31][32][33][34][35] These are sporadic in nature and usually self-limiting. Potential exists for neurological adverse effects including tremors, ataxia and seizures, even in cats without a history of neurological disorders.…”

Benefits and Risks of Pesticide Usage in Pets

“…The macrocyclic lactones are administered topically, and are swiftly absorbed through the dermal route. Selamectin exhibits effective control against the flea, Ctenocephalides felis [57,58], biting lice (Felicola subrostratus) and ear mites (Otodectes cynotis), among others in cats [59].…”

Recent Advancements in the Control of Cat Fleas

“…In Australia, 104 cats were enrolled in clinical studies. A topical application of selamectin + sarolaner for 3 consecutive months provided 98, 100, and 100% control of cat fleas at days 30, 60, and 90, respectively [ 76 ].…”