Covinan for cats

Covinan is a veterinary drug based on a synthetic hormone used to regulate estrus in cats. This contraceptive helps prevent unwanted pregnancies in pets. Although the medication is considered safe when used correctly, it should only be used after consulting a doctor. This is because it affects the animal's hormonal balance.

Key Features

Covinan is a sterile, white suspension used for injection. The manufacturer packages it in 20 ml glass vials. To maintain the sterility of the liquid, the vials are sealed with rubber stoppers, which are then sealed with aluminum caps.

The main ingredient is proligestone, a synthetic steroid hormone. Each ml of liquid contains 100 mg of this substance, which affects the hormonal and reproductive systems. The composition also includes various auxiliary components.

Kovinan should be stored in a dry place protected from sunlight. No special storage conditions are necessary. The key is to keep the temperature between 4 and 25˚C and keep it out of the reach of children. The medication can be stored in an unopened container for 3 years. The manufacturing date can be found on the packaging.

Please note! Do not store the suspension in an opened bottle.

Operating principle

When entering the animal’s body, the synthetic hormone has the following effect:

• prevents the maturation of follicles in the ovaries;
• inhibits the release of hormones that regulate the functioning of the reproductive system;
• suppresses the secretion of mammary glands;
• prevents the flow of heat.

Furthermore, the main component increases the viscosity of uterine mucus, which prevents the implantation of a fertilized egg. If administered during the resting period between periods of sexual activity, the medication prevents estrus.

The unique feature of this medication is that the synthetic hormone can be "stored" in the body. It accumulates in fatty tissue and the liver, resulting in a long-lasting contraceptive effect. When discontinued, its effectiveness gradually diminishes. On average, the cat's reproductive cycle is restored within six months. Sometimes this process can take up to 12 months, while other times it occurs more quickly—within two to three months. The synthetic hormone enters the intestines along with bile, so it is mostly excreted in the feces, and only partially in the urine.

Indications and features of use

According to the instructions, Kovinan is used in cats as a contraceptive, that is, to prevent unwanted pregnancy. The drug helps regulate the female's heat cycle.

The medication is administered exclusively subcutaneously in the following doses:

• for cats weighing less than 7 kg – 1 ml;
• for animals weighing over 7 kg – 1.5 ml.

For occasional regulation of estrus, a single injection is given, always during the "resting" period (between estrus cycles). To ensure a sustained, long-term period of sexual calm, the following treatment regimen is used:

1. The first injection of the hormonal agent is given during a period of complete rest.
2. The second injection is repeated 3 months after the first procedure.
3. The third injection is given after 4 months.
4. The fourth and subsequent injections are given at intervals of 5 months.

It's important not to skip an injection if you're taking it regularly, as this will negatively impact the medication's effectiveness. If an injection is missed on time, it should be corrected as soon as possible. Subsequent injections should be administered according to the previously prescribed schedule.

How to give injections correctly?

When giving injections of Covinan, you should adhere to a number of rules:

1. Do not allow the suspension to be injected into scar tissue or fat deposits located under the epidermis.
2. Intradermal injections are not permitted.
3. Before administration, the liquid must be shaken well to make it homogeneous.
4. The injection site must be treated with medical alcohol.

Please note: If you lack the skills to administer the injection yourself, it's best to have the procedure performed by a doctor.

When is use prohibited?

The instructions indicate that Kovinan for cats has numerous contraindications. Its use should be discontinued in the following cases:

• during pregnancy;
• during sexual activity;
• during the lactation period (milk production stops);
• in pathologies of the genitourinary system;
• in case of vaginal discharge that is observed over a long period;
• before the first heat.

If the animal diabetes mellitusWhen using Covinan, you should monitor your sugar levels.

Please note! It is strictly forbidden to use Covinan in combination with other hormonal medications. There is no information about interactions between the medication and other drugs in the instructions.

Side effects

Since the medication affects not only the reproductive system but also the animal's hormonal balance, it can cause serious side effects. For this reason, it is not recommended to use the medication without consulting a doctor.

The injection sites may be painful. Sometimes, the hair in these areas may lighten or even fall out. Covinan may also cause other side effects:

• increased appetite;
• weight gain;
• thickening of the endometrium;
• pyometritis;
• breast enlargement;
• apathy.

Medication can have a significant impact on a cat's behavior. Owners often notice an increased appetite in their cat. In this case, it's important not to give in to the cat's behavior. The diet, portion size, and feeding frequency should remain unchanged. Furthermore, the animal may become more aggressive, disobedient, or, conversely, excessively apathetic or depressed. Consult a doctor about the advisability of continuing to use the medication or the possibility of choosing an alternative method of contraception.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage of the drug is its ability to restore hormonal balance after discontinuing use. Its high effectiveness, confirmed by numerous reviews from veterinarians and owners, is also a plus.

The drug has significantly more disadvantages:

• The packaging is inconvenient for cat owners. Only 20% of the bottle is used; the rest has to be thrown away.
• There are a number of contraindications. This medication may not always be suitable for use. Before using it, it's important to consult a doctor and undergo a comprehensive examination.
• Serious side effects. The reproductive system may be affected, and behavioral changes may occur.
• Injections are difficult. Special care should be taken when administering the drug. Inexperienced people may administer the injection incorrectly.
• High cost. A single bottle of Kovinan costs around 2,000 rubles.

Covinan is an effective contraceptive, but it should only be used when absolutely necessary. If breeding is not planned, veterinarians recommend spaying the female cat.

Owner reviews

Marina, owner of a mixed-breed cat:

"We gave our cat two injections of Kovinan. It was effective. She didn't have any heat cycles, but then we decided on surgery. After the surgery, it was discovered that the uterine walls had thickened, indicating endometritis—one of the drug's side effects—had begun to develop. I wouldn't recommend using this medication unless absolutely necessary if your pet's health is important."

Valentina, owner of a Persian cat:

"We used Kovinan for our Jetta for medical reasons. I didn't notice any significant behavioral changes during this period. After the course, we mated her during her second heat. The kittens were born healthy and fully developed. We then mated her five more times. When we decided to spay her (remove her uterus and ovaries), no reproductive system issues were found. It's a good contraceptive, although it's expensive."

Veterinarian Reviews

Vladimir, a veterinarian with 13 years of experience:

"We've been using Kovinan for over five years. This gentle hormonal medication is safe for animals when used correctly. Complications are almost never encountered. Endometrial hyperplasia has occurred a couple of times. During the second or third heat cycle, the animal can be bred, and the litter will be healthy. I use this medication not only for my patients but also for my 11-year-old cat."

Maria, a veterinarian with 16 years of experience:

"This is an effective hormonal medication that can be easily purchased at any veterinary pharmacy. I am categorically opposed to such medications being available without a prescription, as they are not suitable for all animals. I am writing this because in my practice, I have seen several cases where thoughtless owner behavior led to serious problems with the hormonal and reproductive systems of cats."

Read also:

• Puberty in cats: when and how long does heat last?
• Do they perform abortions on cats and dogs?
• Gestrenol – drops and tablets for cats