FDA Grants First-Ever EUA for Treating New World Screwworm in Cats: What Pet Owners Need to Know
The U.S. FDA has issued a historic Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for Elanco’s Credelio™ CAT (lotilaner) to treat New World screwworm (NWS) in cats. This is the first time the agency has granted an EUA for NWS treatment in felines, marking a major moment in animal health.
With NWS cases now detected near the U.S.-Mexico border, veterinarians and cat owners finally have a ready-now treatment option in case the parasite reaches the United States.
Why This EUA Matters Right Now?
New World screwworm is not a typical parasite.
It causes rapidly progressing, severe tissue damage.
Even small wounds, including tick bites, can attract the fly.
The FDA’s action ensures the veterinary community has an immediate tool available should the fly enter U.S. borders.
What the EUA Covers
Credelio CAT is not approved for treating NWS under normal conditions.
However, the EUA allows its emergency use based on scientific evidence showing potential efficacy against:
- Old World screwworm in cats
- New World screwworm in dogs
The EUA remains active only while the emergency declaration is in place.
Why NWS Is a Serious Threat?
The NWS fly lays eggs on open wounds of live animals. One female can lay up to 3,000 eggs in her short lifespan. Larvae then burrow into healthy tissue, causing escalating damage and life-threatening infections if untreated.
Key risks include:
- Tiny wounds from grooming or scratching
- Injuries from outdoor activities
- Tick bites that go unnoticed
This makes year-round flea and tick control critical for prevention.
What Experts Are Saying?
Dr. Ellen de Brabander, EVP of Innovation & Regulatory Affairs, Elanco:
“Elanco welcomes the FDA’s swift action, calling the EUA a historic step for feline care. She emphasizes the company’s mission to create solutions for cats that match the options available for dogs.”
Dr. Casey Locklear, Texas-based veterinarian, adds:
“Minor wounds can be enough to attract NWS. Preventing scratches and parasite exposure is essential. Credelio CAT helps reduce scratching triggered by fleas and ticks.”
A Growing Commitment to Feline Health
Cats often receive less veterinary attention compared to dogs.
Research shows:
- 90% of dog owners visit veterinarians
- Only 40% of cat owners do the same
Elanco aims to close this gap through innovation. This EUA follows another milestone: last month, the FDA granted the first-ever EUA for treating NWS in dogs using Credelio.
Together, these moves strengthen Elanco’s strategy for addressing emerging threats in companion animals.
Prevention: The Best First Line of Defense
Before NWS reaches the U.S., veterinarians and pet owners can take proactive steps:
1. Prevent wounds
- Maintain flea and tick control to reduce scratching
- Treat minor injuries immediately
- Keep outdoor cats monitored closely
2. Reduce parasite exposure
The USDA recommends protecting pets from wound-causing parasites such as:
- Ticks
- Flies
- Biting insects
3. Monitor high-risk animals
Cats in outdoor or rural environments face higher exposure.
Credelio CAT: What It Is Already Approved For
Credelio CAT has existing FDA approvals for:
- Killing adult fleas
- Treating and preventing flea infestations for one month
- Treating and controlling black-legged ticks for one month in cats over six months of age
Important Safety Information
(Cat Owners Should Read This)
Lotilaner belongs to the isoxazoline drug class. This class has been associated with neurologic reactions such as:
- Tremors
- Incoordination
- Seizures
Use with caution in cats with neurological histories.
Common side effects include:
- Weight loss
- Rapid breathing
- Vomiting
Discuss safety with your veterinarian before use.
About Elanco
Elanco Animal Health is a global leader in veterinary innovation. With 70 years of experience, the company develops products that protect and enhance the lives of pets and farm animals worldwide.
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