Efficacy and Safety of Emodepside 2.1%/Praziquantel 8.6% Spot-on Formulation in the Treatment of Feline Aelurostrongylosis

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the antiparasitic spot-on formulation containing emodepside 2.1%/praziquantel 8.6% (Profender (R), Bayer) in the treatment of natural feline infection with the lungworm Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (Nematoda, Strongylida). Efficacy of Profender (R) given once at the licensed dose was tested in comparison to a control oral formulation containing fenbendazole 18.75% (Panacur (R), Intervet) given over three consecutive days at the licensed dose. Efficacy assessment was based on larvae per gramme of faeces (LPG) counts, measured on days 28+/-2 following treatment and compared to counts on days -6 to -2. In total 24 cats treated either with Profender (R) (n = 12) or with Panacur (R) (n = 12) were included in the assessment of efficacy and safety. Mean LPG post-baseline counts (days 28+/-2) were 1.3 LPG for both Profender (R) and Panacur (R), demonstrating similar efficacy of 99.38% for Profender (R) and 99.29% for the control product. No treated animals showed adverse events. This trial demonstrated that both Profender (R) spot-on formulation and oral paste Panacur (R) are safe and effective in the treatment of aelurostrongylosis in cats. Future practical perspectives in feline medicine and the major advantages of the spot-on product compared to the oral paste are discussed.