Introducing new feline topicals Vectra™ for Cats & Kittens and Vectra™ for Cats

First topical products available that kill fleas in just 6 hours

February 11, 2008, Fort Lee, N.J. – Vectra™ for Cats & Kittens and VectraTM for Cats feature a combination of Dinotefuran and Pyriproxifen that delivers rapid, effective and more complete relief for cats and kittens.

The new Vectra product:

  • Kills adult fleas within six hours.
  • Kills fleas that may transmit disease, including bartonellosis, tapeworm and tularemia.
  • Controls the development of all flea stages: eggs, larvae and pupae for at least one month.
  • Can be used on kittens as young as 8 weeks of age.

Dinotefuran is a novel, fast-acting third generation neonicotinoid not previously used on felines with a unique mode of action. Pyriproxifen, a superior second-generation insect growth regulator, controls the development of immature fleas and exhibits long-lasting activity on cats and kittens.

In side-by-side comparisons, Vectra outperformed the two leading feline treatments at two, six and 12 hours post treatment, in terms of adulticidal speed of kill. In flea reduction and egg hatchability studies, of the few eggs collected from Vectra-treated cats, all (100%) failed to hatch.

“Veterinarians have been waiting for a product like Vectra for Cats & Kittens and Vectra for Cats,” said Dr. Albert H. Ahn, DVM, senior director of veterinary services. “The chronic nature of flea control contributes to the potential for resistant fleas. Our feline product is a novel formulation fleas have never encountered.”

Vectra is colorless, odor-free, non-greasy and quick-drying. The unique, patented applicator features an elongated tip that makes it easy to apply to a feline’s skin through the haircoat. The rounded tip minimizes risk of skin abrasions. The easy-to-open applicator eliminates splash back and spilling, and the contoured shape makes it easier to handle. With the one-piece applicator, there is no need to use scissors to open or remove a cap, making application fast, efficient and easy.

“We've received rave reviews from veterinarians and pet owners about our applicator,” said Ahn. “It not only makes application easier and cleaner, the applicator makes it easier to reach the cat’s skin so that product is not spilled during the application.”

Vectra™ for Cats & Kittens and Vectra™ for Cats are protected with Ceva’s BloodhoundTM Technology - an innovative, proprietary track and trace system that ensures veterinary exclusivity of the product. Each package of Vectra can be traced from the point of manufacture to veterinarian purchase. Bloodhound Technology allows Ceva to maintain the integrity of its products through a secure distribution channel, as well as guarding against counterfeiting.

“By securing our supply chain, we are able to protect the veterinary professional, maintain authenticity of our products, and enhance the role of veterinarians in the lives of the animals they treat. Through our Bloodhound Technology, we can help keep companion animal health exactly where it belongs — in the hands of professionals,” says Julia Stephanus, Vice President, Companion Animal Global Marketing for Ceva.

The new cat formula in the Vectra family of products is available to pet owners only through licensed veterinarians.

Vectra for Cats & Kittens is available in 3-dose and 6-dose packages: 0.8 mL for cats and kittens 8 weeks and older and less than 9 lbs. Vectra for Cats is available in 3-dose and 6-dose packages: 1.2 mL for cats weighing 9 lbs. and over.

Vectra for Cats & Kittens, Vectra for Cats and Vectra 3D for Dogs are available to veterinarians through Ceva and Abbott Animal Health sales representatives, as well as from the following distributors: Associated Medical Supply, Great Western Animal Health, Midwest Veterinary Supply, Inc., Merritt Veterinary Supplies, Inc., Henry Schein Animal Health, NLS Animal Health, Northeast Veterinary Supply Company (NEVSCO), PCI Animal Health, Sanum Puerto Rico, and Victor Medical Company.

About Ceva Animal Health: Ceva’s key companion animal products include the Vectra® line of parasiticides, D.A.P.® and Feliway® pheromone behavior aids and Senilife® neuroprotection for aging pets.  Ceva Biomune’s key poultry products include CEVAC® Transmune IBD, Vectormune® FP and Vectormune® HVT.  Ceva Biomune Campus and the North America Zone headquarters are both located in Lenexa, Kansas.  Visit www.ceva.us.

About Ceva Santé Animale: Ceva’s parent company is a global veterinary health company focused on the research, development, production and marketing of pharmaceutical products and vaccines for pets, livestock, swine and poultry.  Its headquarters is in Libourne, France. Visit www.ceva.com.

For more information, please contact Carolyn Gilliland at carolyn.gilliland[at]ceva.com or 913.945.4448.

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