As a dog owner, it’s important to know how to properly administer medication to your furry friend. One medication that may be prescribed for your dog is Ivermectin, which is used for the prevention of dirofilariasis or heartworm disease. However, it’s important to give your dog the correct dosage to avoid any potential adverse effects.
The recommended dosage for dogs is 0.0027 to 1.13 mg per pound of body weight, given once a month for the prevention of heartworm disease. Here is a handy dosage chart to help you determine the correct amount of Ivermectin to give your dog based on their weight:
Ivermectin can be administered orally in tablet form or mixed with food. It’s important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions regarding the dosage and administration of the medication. If you’re unsure about how to give Ivermectin to your dog, speak with your vet for guidance.
Potential Side Effects of Ivermectin in Dogs
Although most dogs tolerate Ivermectin well, some dogs may experience side effects such as vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. In rare cases, Ivermectin can cause neurologic side effects such as ataxia or seizures, especially in dogs with a genetic mutation that makes them more susceptible to the medication. If you notice any unusual symptoms in your dog after giving them Ivermectin, contact your veterinarian immediately.
FAQs about Ivermectin for dogs
Let’s dive into some of the most frequently asked questions.
What is Ivermectin?
Ivermectin is a medication that is commonly used to treat parasitic infections in dogs. It belongs to a class of drugs known as macrocyclic lactones, and it works by killing the parasites that are causing the infection.
What types of parasites does Ivermectin treat?
Ivermectin can be used to treat a wide variety of parasites in dogs, including heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and mange mites.
How is Ivermectin administered to dogs?
Ivermectin can be administered to dogs in several different ways. It can be given orally in the form of a tablet, liquid, or paste. It can also be applied topically as a spot-on treatment.
Is Ivermectin safe for all dogs?
While Ivermectin is generally safe for most dogs, it can be dangerous for some breeds. Certain breeds, such as Collies, Shelties, and Australian Shepherds, have a genetic mutation that makes them more sensitive to the medication. It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog Ivermectin.
What are the side effects of Ivermectin?
The most common side effects of Ivermectin include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. In rare cases, dogs can experience neurological symptoms, such as tremors, seizures, and loss of coordination. If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog after giving them Ivermectin, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Yes, Ivermectin is often used as a monthly preventative medication to protect dogs from heartworms. It’s important to administer the medication regularly and to have your dog tested for heartworms on a yearly basis.
How long does it take for Ivermectin to work?
The effectiveness of Ivermectin can vary depending on the type of parasite being treated. In general, it can take several days to a few weeks for the medication to fully eradicate the parasites.
Can Ivermectin be used on pregnant or nursing dogs?
It’s important to consult with your veterinarian before giving Ivermectin to pregnant or nursing dogs. While the medication is generally safe, there may be specific precautions that need to be taken.
Where can I get Ivermectin for my dog?
Ivermectin is available through veterinarians and online pet supply stores. It’s important to ensure that you are purchasing a reputable brand and that the medication is being used properly.
Can Ivermectin be used to treat other animals besides dogs?
Yes, Ivermectin can be used to treat a variety of parasites in other animals, including cats, horses, cattle, and sheep. However, the dosage and administration of the medication may differ depending on the species.
Can Ivermectin be used on puppies?
Ivermectin can be used on puppies, but it’s important to consult with your veterinarian first. Puppies may require a lower dosage or a different form of the medication than adult dogs.
What happens if I accidentally overdose my dog on Ivermectin?
An accidental overdose of Ivermectin can be dangerous for dogs, especially those that are sensitive to the medication. Symptoms of an overdose may include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and seizures. If you suspect that your dog has overdosed on Ivermectin, seek veterinary care immediately.
While Ivermectin is not specifically designed to treat fleas, it can be effective in reducing flea populations. The medication can kill fleas that are feeding on a dog’s blood, but it will not prevent new fleas from infesting the dog.
Can Ivermectin be used to treat ticks?
Ivermectin is not typically used to treat ticks in dogs. Instead, tick preventatives such as Frontline or Nexgard are recommended.
How often should I give my dog Ivermectin?
The frequency of Ivermectin administration will depend on the type of parasite being treated and the specific product being used. Some products are given monthly, while others may be given less frequently. It’s important to follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian or on the product label.
Can Ivermectin be used in combination with other medications?
In some cases, Ivermectin may be used in combination with other medications to treat parasitic infections. However, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before combining medications, as some combinations may be dangerous or ineffective.
What should I do if my dog has an adverse reaction to Ivermectin?
If your dog experiences an adverse reaction to Ivermectin, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or neurological symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. In severe cases, emergency treatment may be necessary.
Is Ivermectin effective against all types of heartworms?
While Ivermectin is effective against most types of heartworms, some strains may be resistant to the medication. It’s important to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for heartworm prevention and to have your dog tested for heartworms regularly.
Hannah Elizabeth is an English animal behavior author, having written for several online publications. With a degree in Animal Behaviour and over a decade of practical animal husbandry experience, Hannah's articles cover everything from pet care to wildlife conservation. When she isn't creating content for blog posts, Hannah enjoys long walks with her Rottweiler cross Senna, reading fantasy novels and breeding aquarium shrimp.
