Bravecto is a prescription medicine used to treat and prevent flea and tick infestations in dogs and cats. It is available in different forms and strengths. There is a flavored chewable tablet made for dogs, and there are topical solutions designed for both dogs and cats. Each product is made specifically for the species it is labeled for, and dosing is based on the pet’s body weight.
It is very important to use the correct product for the correct animal. A product labeled for dogs should never be used on cats, and a cat product should not be used on dogs. Using the wrong version can lead to poor results or even overdose. Bravecto is not available over the counter, so pet owners must speak with a veterinarian to get a prescription. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice and read the label carefully before giving the medication.
How Bravecto Works
The active ingredient in Bravecto is Fluralaner. This ingredient belongs to a group of medications called isoxazolines. These medicines work by affecting the nervous system of fleas and ticks.
When a flea or tick bites your pet, it ingests fluralaner. The ingredient overstimulates the parasite’s nervous system, which causes paralysis and death. In both dogs and cats, the medication begins working within hours to kill fleas already present on the body.
By killing fleas quickly, Bravecto helps reduce itching and skin irritation caused by flea allergy dermatitis. In some cases, veterinarians may also use Bravecto in an extra-label way to help treat certain types of mange, such as demodectic mange in dogs and sarcoptic mange in cats. Extra-label use means the medication is used in a way not specifically listed on the label but supported by veterinary judgment.
Possible Side Effects of Bravecto
Bravecto is usually well tolerated by both dogs and cats. However, like all medications, some pets may experience side effects. The most common signs of intolerance include vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, and low energy levels.
In some cases, pets may also show increased thirst or gas. With topical products, mild skin reactions such as itching or dry skin may occur at the application site. Some pets may drool if they accidentally lick the topical medication.
Medications in the isoxazoline class have been associated with rare neurologic side effects. These may include muscle tremors, unsteady walking, collapse, or seizures. Pet owners should tell their veterinarian if their dog or cat has a history of seizures or other neurologic conditions before starting Bravecto.
If any severe side effects are noticed, or if symptoms do not improve, contact your veterinarian right away.
Safety Information for Humans
Bravecto is made for animals only and should never be used by humans. People should not take medication prescribed for pets, and pets should not be given human medications unless directed by a veterinarian.
After giving Bravecto, it is recommended to wash your hands. Avoid touching the application area on your pet until it is completely dry. Children should not touch the treated area until it has dried fully. If someone accidentally swallows the medication or gets the topical solution in their eyes, they should contact a physician or call a poison control center immediately.
Monitoring and When to Call Your Veterinarian
Bravecto does not require special monitoring in most pets. However, your veterinarian may recommend routine testing depending on your pet’s health, other medications, or the reason for treatment.
You should call your veterinarian if you notice severe side effects, if your pet’s condition worsens, or if you suspect an overdose. It is also important to reach out if you have any concerns or questions about Bravecto, Bravecto 1-Month, or Bravecto Plus.
Overdose Information
Bravecto has a wide safety margin, which means it is generally safe when used as directed. However, large overdoses may cause symptoms. In pets that receive too much of the oral version, diarrhea or tremors may occur. If a pet accidentally eats a topical product, excessive drooling may be seen.
If you suspect your pet has received too much Bravecto or if the topical product was given by mouth, contact your veterinarian immediately or seek emergency veterinary care. You may also contact an animal poison control center for guidance. Consultation fees may apply.
Bravecto Chew for Dogs
The chewable form of Bravecto is a flavored tablet designed for dogs older than six months of age and weighing more than 4.4 pounds. It provides protection against fleas and several types of ticks for up to 12 weeks. These ticks include the black-legged tick, the American dog tick, and the brown dog tick. It also controls the Lone Star tick for up to eight weeks. In areas where Lone Star ticks are common, veterinarians may recommend giving the medication every eight weeks instead of twelve.
Most dogs take the chew willingly because of its flavor. If a dog refuses it, the tablet can be hidden in a small amount of food. It works best when given with a meal rather than on an empty stomach. If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you remember. Fleas and ticks may temporarily appear if a dose is delayed.
Bravecto 1-Month for Dogs
Bravecto 1-Month is another chewable option for dogs. It contains a lower dose of fluralaner and is approved for puppies and dogs eight weeks of age and older who weigh at least 4.4 pounds. It offers the same flea and tick coverage as the standard Bravecto chew but is given monthly.
Veterinarians may start young puppies on Bravecto 1-Month and later switch them to the regular Bravecto chew when they reach six months of age. Like the standard chew, it should be given with food for best results.
Bravecto Topical Solution
Bravecto topical solution provides up to 12 weeks of protection against fleas and ticks in both dogs and cats. This product is applied directly to the skin and should never be given by mouth.
In Dogs, it is used in puppies and adult dogs older than six months and weighing more than 4.4 pounds. It controls several tick species for up to 12 weeks and Lone Star ticks for eight weeks.
In cats, the topical solution kills adult fleas and prevents flea infestations for 12 weeks. It also treats and controls black-legged ticks for 12 weeks and American dog ticks for eight weeks. It is approved for cats six months of age and older who weigh at least 2.6 pounds.
Bravecto Plus for Cats
Bravecto Plus is a topical product made specifically for cats. It contains fluralaner combined with another ingredient called moxidectin. In addition to controlling fleas and ticks, Bravecto Plus prevents heartworm disease and treats and controls intestinal roundworms and hookworms.
Moxidectin works by killing immature heartworms and intestinal parasites. Because serious side effects can occur in cats that already have heartworm disease, veterinarians may perform a heartworm test before prescribing Bravecto Plus.
This product provides flea protection for two months in cats and also covers certain ticks during that time.
Storage Instructions
Bravecto and Bravecto 1-Month chewable tablets should be stored at controlled temperatures below 86 degrees Fahrenheit. The topical solutions, including Bravecto Topical Solution and Bravecto Plus, should be stored at or below 77 degrees Fahrenheit and kept away from heat, sparks, and open flames because they are flammable.
Keep all products in their original blister packaging until ready to use to protect them from moisture and light. Store them out of reach of children and pets.s
FAQs
Can my dog still get fleas after taking Bravecto®?
You may still see fleas on your dog shortly after giving Bravecto®. The medication works after fleas bite your pet, so fleas can be visible for a short time before they die. Bravecto® starts killing fleas quickly and helps control infestations for up to 12 weeks. If fleas continue to appear after treatment, speak with your veterinarian to determine if additional flea control for your home or yard is needed.
How often should Bravecto® be given to dogs?
Bravecto® chewable tablets are typically given once every 12 weeks to control fleas and most ticks. However, for certain tick species such as Lone Star ticks, treatment may be recommended every eight weeks. Your veterinarian can advise the best schedule for your dog based on your location and the types of parasites in your area.
Can Bravecto® be used with other flea and tick medications?
Bravecto® is designed to control fleas and ticks on its own, so additional flea and tick medications are usually not required. Using multiple treatments at the same time may increase the risk of side effects or unnecessary exposure to medications. Always consult your veterinarian before combining parasite control products.
Is Bravecto® safe for puppies?
Bravecto® chewable tablets can generally be used in puppies that are at least 6 months old and meet the minimum weight requirement listed on the product label. Your veterinarian can help determine whether Bravecto® is the right choice for your puppy based on age, weight, and overall health.
What should I do if my dog vomits after taking Bravecto®?
If your dog vomits shortly after taking Bravecto®, contact your veterinarian for advice. In some cases, another dose may be recommended if the medication was not fully absorbed. Your veterinarian can help determine the best course of action and whether a different flea and tick treatment may be more suitable.
Does Bravecto® prevent flea infestations in the home?
Bravecto® helps control fleas on your pet and prevents them from reproducing by killing them quickly. However, if fleas are already present in your home or yard, additional treatment such as cleaning, vacuuming, or environmental flea control may be necessary. Your veterinarian can help you develop a complete flea control plan.
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