Zoetis Stronghold Plus 60 mg/10 mg for cats 5–10 kg is a broad-spectrum spot-on for cats weighing 5 to 10 kg. According to the description, it kills adult fleas, ear mites, lice and several hard tick species, acts against roundworms and hookworms and is used to prevent heartworm disease. The main active ingredient named in the listing is selamectin. It can be used from 8 weeks of age in cats weighing at least 1.25 kg, and its effect lasts 4–5 weeks. The title states a pack of 1 ml × 3 pipettes.
What the manufacturer claims
The listing calls Stronghold Plus a treatment for external and internal parasites and a heartworm preventive. The drops dry quickly, leave no smell and, according to the description, the cat can be bathed 2 hours after application. For flea and tick protection they are applied once a month during the parasite season.
Key specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Form | spot-on |
| For | cats 5–10 kg |
| Dose in the title | 60 mg / 10 mg |
| Active ingredient per description | selamectin |
| Parasites | fleas, ticks, ear mites, lice, roundworms, hookworms |
| Age | from 8 weeks, from 1.25 kg |
| Duration | 4–5 weeks |
| Pack | 1 ml × 3 pipettes |
Pros
- Broad spectrum. Fleas, ticks, ear mites, lice and some worms in one pipette.
- Heartworm prevention. Regular use during mosquito season.
- From 8 weeks. Suitable for young cats.
- Convenient form. A spot-on instead of tablets.
- No smell. Dries quickly.
- Three pipettes. Enough for a 3-month season.
Cons and what to watch
- Mixed description. Parts of the text come from regular Stronghold, and the second ingredient is not named.
- Contradiction about dogs. First "not toxic to cats and dogs", then "do not use on dogs".
- Not for pregnant and breeding cats. As stated in the contraindications.
- Pack confusion. The title says 3 pipettes, the page address says 1.
What is in the pipette
The listing describes only selamectin in detail — it kills fleas, ear mites and lice and acts on several worms. The figures "60 mg/10 mg" in the title point to two active ingredients: Stronghold Plus adds sarolaner to selamectin, and sarolaner is responsible for the action against ticks. The shop description does not mention sarolaner, so check the leaflet in the pack before use.
Choosing the pipette by weight
This pipette is for cats from 5 to 10 kg. The manufacturer makes three strengths by body weight. Weigh your cat before buying: under 5 kg you need a lower strength, and too small a dose for a large cat reduces effectiveness. Kittens from 8 weeks and 1.25 kg take the lowest strength.
How to apply
Part the fur at the base of the neck between the shoulder blades so the skin is visible. Squeeze the contents of the pipette directly onto the skin in one spot where the cat cannot lick it. Do not rub it in or apply it to wet or damaged skin. After application, do not let other animals lick the treated area until it has dried.
Treatment schedule
Against fleas and ticks, the drops are applied once a month during the parasite season. For heartworm prevention, every 4–5 weeks, starting a month before mosquitoes appear and ending a month after they disappear. For ear mites, clean crusts and wax from the ears before applying; repeat after a month if needed. Ask a vet about the worming schedule. More in worms in cats and dogs: prevention.
If fleas are already present
The drops kill adult fleas within a day and disrupt their reproduction. To break the cycle, treat every animal in the home and vacuum the places where the cat sleeps regularly. More tips are in fleas on a cat: how to get rid of them.
Precautions
The product must not be used on kittens under 8 weeks or under 1.25 kg, and it is not recommended for pregnant and breeding cats. Do not use it on dogs or other animals. When switching from a product with a different active ingredient, the description calls for a one-month break. If drooling, vomiting, lethargy or skin irritation appears after application, see a vet.
Alternatives
Other spot-ons for cats are Advocate and Vectra Felis, and for dogs there is a separate Stronghold. The full range is in flea treatments for cats and flea drops for cats.
Who it suits
The drops suit cats weighing 5–10 kg that need comprehensive protection against fleas, ticks and ear mites plus heartworm prevention — especially cats that go outdoors. Pregnant, breeding and weakened cats should be treated only after consulting a vet.
Verdict
Stronghold Plus for cats 5–10 kg is a comprehensive spot-on against fleas, ticks, ear mites and some worms, and for heartworm prevention. The downsides are a listing description mixed up with regular Stronghold, an unnamed second ingredient and contradictions about dogs and the pack size, so rely on the leaflet.
FAQ
What weight is this pipette for?
Cats from 5 to 10 kg.
From what age can it be used?
From 8 weeks and at least 1.25 kg — in the appropriate strength.
How often should it be applied?
Once a month during flea and tick season; for heartworm, every 4–5 weeks.
Can it be used on dogs?
No, it is for cats only.
When can the cat be bathed?
According to the description, 2 hours after application.
Does it help with ear mites?
Yes, according to the description; clean the ears first.
Can pregnant cats use it?
Not recommended; decide only with a vet.
