Elanco has announced the results of a survey it conducted amongst European dermatology diplomates which found that nearly 90% of them consider Comfortis (spinosad) is the first choice of flea control for cats and dogs.

The research was conducted at the European Society of Veterinary Dermatology (ESVD) and European College of Veterinary Dermatology (ECVD) Congress 2013. 49 Dip ESVD holders from around Europe were asked:

• When recommending a flea control product, where do you place Comfortis? 
  71% said first choice. 22% said second choice. 
• When diagnosing a pruritic animal, a first step should be to rule out fleas as a cause
  86% strongly agreed. 12% agreed.  
• When treating pruritic animal... would an oral parasiticide be your first choice?
  69% said yes. 10% said no. 14% abstained. 6% said it depends on the case. 
• When treating a pruritic animal... would Comfortis be your first choice?
  86% said yes. 2% said no. 12% said it depends on the case. 
• In your experience, Comfortis has significantly improved the control of fleas
  63% strongly agreed. 35% agreed.  
• In your experience, Comfortis has significantly helped in treating pruritic animals
  45% strongly agreed. 51% agreed, 
• In your experience, Comfortis has significantly helped bring relief to animals
  43% strongly agreed. 51% agreed. 

Research has shown that dermatological cases account for approximately 20% of small animal consultations conducted by general practitioners¹. According to Elanco, further industry investigations have found that skin diseases are two to three times more common than the next disease category, and dermatological problems are a common secondary reason for an examination.

Anna Jackson, national veterinary manager at Elanco Companion Animal Health, said: “Skin diseases are a huge part of a practicing vet’s workload and one which can prove challenging to effectively address. By creating a fast acting oral flea control product that can work alongside other topical dermatological treatments, we’re helping to alleviate the discomfort and consequences of flea allergy dermatitis, which is one of the most common causes of skin disease. It’s fantastic to receive such strong endorsements from some of the leading dermatologists in Europe and this underlines the benefits of using Comfortis for flea control.”

Reference

1. Hill P B et al (2006) Survey of the prevalence, diagnosis and treatment of dermatological conditions in small animals in general practice. Veterinary Record 158:533-539

PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.