Amitrazine for dogs
Amitrazine is a veterinary drug used to kill ticks infesting dogs. It is highly effective and eliminates ticks even when other treatments fail. The drug is manufactured by several companies, so it can be found in almost any veterinary pharmacy, regardless of region.
Content
Composition and features
The drug is available in two versions: Amitrazine and Amitrazine-Plus. The main active ingredient is amitraz. This substance has a pronounced acaricidal effect against ticks that infest pets. The "Plus" version also contains decamethoxin, which has antifungal and antiseptic properties.
The medication appears as an oily liquid. The excipients are vegetable oil and dimethyl sulfoxide. These substances facilitate better distribution of the liquid in parasite-infected areas and enhance the action of the active ingredient. The medicinal liquid is characterized by a yellow color and a pungent odor.
The tick-repellent medication is packaged in polymer bottles. Typically, 10 ml bottles are used, but 15 and 20 ml bottles are also available. The bottles typically come with a built-in dropper, making the solution easy to use. treatment of otodectosis (Instill into the ear canal). Each bottle is individually packaged in a cardboard box and comes with instructions for use. Amitrazine-Plus is packaged in glass bottles sealed with rubber stoppers.
How it works
The drug works by inhibiting the parasite's receptors. Amitraz disrupts the nervous system, leading to paralysis and death of the ticks. A unique feature of the drug is its ability to accumulate in the upper layers of the skin, sweat glands, and fur. This allows Amitrazine to maintain its effect over a long period, effectively eliminating ticks and preventing re-infestation.
Rapeseed oil stimulates regenerative processes, so when using this medication, skin integrity is restored faster. Dimethyl sulfoxide can relieve pain. The medication not only addresses the cause of the condition but also reduces the severity of symptoms. Furthermore, it reduces inflammation and prevents complications.
Please note! Amitrazine contains toxic components, so the dosage must be strictly observed. This is especially true when using the solution on puppies and small breed dogs.
When and how to apply
According to the instructions for use, Amitrazine for dogs is used in the treatment of otodectosis, demodicosis And scabies, caused by ticks. The drug can be used to treat diseases regardless of their stage—acute or chronic.
Features of use for scabies and demodicosis
If demodectic and sarcoptic mites are detected in an animal, then the medicine is used as follows:
- The affected areas are first cleaned of scabs and any crusts that have formed. To do this, gently wipe the affected areas of the epidermis with a gauze pad soaked in warm water. For greater effectiveness, special lotions can be used instead of plain water.
- Then, using another gauze pad, apply a thin layer of the medicinal solution, working from the edge to the center.
- When treating, it's essential to include 1 cm of healthy tissue. This will help prevent further spread of the disease.
- Avoid licking the solution, so after applying the solution, place a collar, muzzle, or tape on your pet. These can be removed after 20-30 minutes, once the solution has completely dried.
The dosage is calculated as follows: 0.2-0.5 ml of solution per kilogram of body weight, depending on the severity of the parasite infestation. If using regular Amitrazin, the procedure is repeated every 5-7 days. A total of up to 5 treatments may be required. When using Amitrazan-Plus, the affected areas should be cleaned every three days. A total of 6-8 treatments are required, depending on the severity of the infestation. If the infection has become chronic, the pet is additionally prescribed immunostimulants to improve overall health.
Please note! If tick infestations are extensive, treatment is carried out in two stages. First, wipe the affected areas with the solution on one side, and then on the other side the following day. Otherwise, overdose and poisoning may occur.
Treatment of otodectosis
If ear mites are detected in your dog, you should follow these steps:
- Clean the animal's ears of scabs and crusts using a special lotion and a gauze swab.
- Place 2-3 drops of the solution in each ear. For larger dogs, the dose may be increased. The exact dosage should be determined by your veterinarian based on the animal's weight, the extent of the infestation, and its overall condition.
- The auricle should be carefully folded in half and lightly massaged so that the drug is distributed evenly.
- If there are affected areas on the head, they should be wiped with a swab soaked in Amitrazine.
- The procedure should be repeated after 7 days. A total of 2-6 treatments may be required.
If otodectosis is complicated by otitis, the doctor may additionally prescribe an antibacterial agent.
Please note! Even if a tick is found in one ear, the drops should be applied to both ear canals.
Contraindications and side effects
Due to the content of toxic components, Amitrazine is not recommended for use in the following cases:
- during pregnancy;
- during the period of feeding offspring;
- in case of exhaustion;
- for infectious diseases.
The drug can also be harmful to animals weakened by chronic conditions. It is also prohibited for use in puppies under 2 months of age. Individuals with intolerances should also avoid using the acaricide.
Dogs tolerate the medication well if the dose is not exceeded. A burning sensation may occur immediately after application if there are scratches or other skin lesions. This sensation resolves on its own and does not require special treatment. Allergic reactions may occur if the patient is intolerant to the ingredients. in the form of hives, severe itching, and rashes. If such symptoms are detected, your pet should be thoroughly bathed with shampoo and given an anti-allergy medication.
If the solution accidentally enters the body, the following symptoms may occur:
- vomit;
- nausea;
- diarrhea;
- profuse salivation.
Nervous system dysfunction may also occur, manifesting as apathy, impaired coordination, and other similar symptoms. If you are certain or suspect that the medication has been ingested, perform a gastric lavage and administer an enterosorbent, such as activated charcoal, to help flush out the toxic substance.
Price
The price of a medicine depends on the type:
- Amitrazine – 95-120 rubles for 10 ml;
- Amitrazine-Plus – 80-100 rubles for 10 ml.
A doctor's prescription is not required to purchase this medication. It can be purchased at your nearest veterinary pharmacy or ordered online through a special portal.
Owner reviews
Olga, owner of a dog and two cats:
"I used Amitrazin drops on my pets when they contracted ear mites. The medication is effective. I've used it several times, and it always gets rid of the mites, but my pets don't like the procedure. My dog, seeing the bottle in my hands, tries to run away. My cats resist less, but it's clear they're uncomfortable with the medication. It's a shame that an opened bottle only lasts for a month. It's good that it's inexpensive."
Victoria, the pug's owner:
"I used Amitrazin-Plus to treat my dog's ear mites. After the first application, she went deaf, and now I don't know what to do. There are a lot of negative reviews on forums and related websites. I regret not reading them before using it. I advise other dog owners never to buy this medication."
Veterinarian Reviews
Nikolay Andreevich, a veterinarian with 15 years of experience:
"Amitrazine is an effective medication that completely eliminates ticks. I've been using it on cats and dogs for many years and can confidently say it's one of the most effective medications on the domestic market. Side effects only occur if used incorrectly. Consult a veterinarian before use to avoid having to resuscitate your pet from poisoning caused by an overdose."
Anton, a veterinarian with 8 years of experience:
"Amitrazine is quite toxic, albeit effective. If used incorrectly, it can cause severe poisoning. It should be used with extreme caution in puppies. I usually prefer to choose imported medications that don't cause serious side effects in pets."
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