13 Spring 2026 | Animal Health Solutions 13
Topical preventatives:
The primary option for
feline patients
(e.g., fipronil, selamectin, moxidectin,
imidacloprid, sarolaner, etc.)*
Topical preventatives are mostly
liquid spot-on treatments applied
between the shoulder blades or at
the base of the skull, though certain
parasiticide collars and sprays
could also fit into this category.
Topical options exist for both dogs
and cats, but they're definitely the
current mainstay of feline parasite
prevention. Approved oral options
for cats are significantly more limited,
and long-lasting injectables aren't
approved for cats at this time.
When considering topical
preventatives for canine patients,
the veterinary team has a lot of other
options to weigh the formulation
against. Topical products have their
own benefits and drawbacks to keep
in mind when making this decision.
BENEFITS
• Can be administered at
home by clients who prefer
self-administering their
pet's prevention
• Options are available that
cover heartworms, fleas,
ticks, certain mites, and
intestinal parasites
• Options are available for
both dogs and cats
• All-in-one products exist
for cats
• Easily administered to
animals who do not take oral
medications well or who are
resistant to needle pokes
• May be a good option for pets
with food allergies that react to
flavors in oral preventatives
THINGS TO CONSIDER
• More frequent application
may be riskier if client struggles
with compliance
• A residue is left on the fur, which
may be unpleasant to pet parents
or risky for children and other pets
• Products with permethrin may not
be safe in households with cats
• Cannot bathe the animal or allow
swimming for around 24–48 hours
after application
• May cause topical skin reactions
• Improper placement on the pet's
body or failure to place directly on
the pet's skin may affect efficacy
• Canine patients will usually
require a combination of products
for full coverage
