Imidaflea

Imidaflea Spot-On

What is Imidaflea?

Imidaflea spot on is a brand name of the drug imidacloprid, manufactured by Elanco. It’s a topical flea treatment that comes in a small pipette ready to be applied to the back of a dog, cat, or rabbit’s neck, often known as a ‘spot on’. It treats fleas and biting lice for 4 weeks.

What does Imidaflea do?

The key active ingredient in Imidaflea Spot on is imidacloprid. Imidacloprid eliminates adult fleas as it acts on their nervous system, leading to paralysis and quick death. This provides rapid relief from biting and itching within 24-48 hours.

Imidacloprid prevents future flea infestations as it also affects flea breeding by stopping eggs from hatching and larvae from maturing. This disrupts the flea cycle and offers long-lasting protection. 

In addition, Imidaflea spot on eliminates biting lice in dogs. Similar to its action on fleas, Imidacloprid tackles biting lice, offering relief from discomfort and preventing their spread.

After application, usually on the back of your pet’s neck, imidacloprid is absorbed through the skin and enters your pet’s bloodstream. It is then carried throughout your pet’s body. This provides a sustained release of imidacloprid, ensuring ongoing protection against fleas for four weeks.

When a flea bites, they ingest some imidacloprid, and are killed within 24 hours, before they can mate and lay eggs. 

What is Imidaflea for?

Imidaflea spot on prevents and treats flea infestations in dogs, cats and rabbits. It can also be used to treat biting lice in dogs. It also acts as a preventative, by killing fleas picked up from the environment before they have the opportunity to breed. Possible side effects of Imidaflea Spot-on include:

• Skin reactions: These are the most common, often occurring at the application site and typically resolving within a few days. They may include redness, discoloration, hair loss, itching, greasiness and temporary clumping of hair.
• Excessive salivation: This can occur if your pet licks the application site immediately after application. It’s usually brief and harmless.
• Nausea and vomiting: These are typically mild and short-lived.
• Nervous system signs: These are very rare and may include, increased sensitivity to touch, depression, lethargy, tremors and ataxia (incoordination)

Other less common side effects:

• Eye irritation: Avoid contact with your pet’s eyes.
• Allergic reactions: While rare, allergic reactions to Imidaflea Spot-on can occur. Signs may include, hives, difficulty breathing and facial swelling.

What are the possible side effects with Imidaflea?

Like all medications, Metacam can have side effects. These are generally rare when the drug is used properly.

How to give Imidaflea safely

Using Imidaflea Spot-on safely on your pet requires following proper application techniques and precautions to ensure their well-being and maximize the product’s effectiveness. Here are some tips to guide you:

Before application:

• Consult your vet: Discuss your pet’s health, any existing conditions, and whether Imidaflea Spot-on is the right choice for them. They will determine the appropriate dosage based on your pet’s weight and species.
• Read the product instructions carefully: Each version of Imidaflea Spot-on might have specific instructions. Familiarise yourself with the contents, dosage guidance, and application method to avoid errors.
• Gather supplies: You’ll need the Imidaflea Spot-on tube, gloves (optional), and a towel (optional).

Application process:

• Choose the application site: Apply the solution directly to the skin between your pet’s shoulder blades. This area is less accessible for licking and ensures optimal absorption.
• Part the fur: Gently part the fur to reveal the skin at the application site.
• Hold the tube upright: Point the nozzle away from your pet and yourself.
• Apply the solution: Squeeze the tube gently, depositing the required amount of solution directly onto the exposed skin. Avoid applying to broken skin or wounds.
• Do not massage: Allow the solution to spread naturally on your pet’s skin.
• Discard the used tube safely.

After application:

• Wash your hands thoroughly.
• Monitor your pet: Observe your pet for any immediate reactions like excessive scratching or discomfort. Contact your veterinarian if you notice any concerning signs.
• Keep your pet away from water for 24 hours: This allows the solution to dry and become effective.
• Do not bathe your pet for 2 days: Allow the medication to work its magic.
• Prevent licking: Use an Elizabethan collar (cone) if your pet tends to lick or chew at the application site.

Additional safety tips:

• Store Imidaflea Spot-on in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not overdose. Stick to the recommended dosage prescribed by your veterinarian.
• Do not apply Imidaflea Spot-on more frequently than recommended. Overuse can be harmful to your pet.

Imidaflea FAQs

Imidaflea Datasheet

All drugs have a manufacturer’s datasheet, which gives information about the drug’s use and possible side effects. There is usually one in your Imidaflea box, but if you have lost it you can click on the button below to be taken on an online version.

Confused about fleas? Try our free course

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Please note that the information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only. Although it has been written by a vet, we cannot consider the individual nature of your pet’s problems so it does not constitute veterinary advice. If you have questions about your pet’s medication or their health you should contact a vet, who will be able to help.

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