Cydectin FAQ

Why cydectin?

The primary resource for tackling feather mites as of 2022 can be found here, written by Marieke Brys (University of Ghent), where the use of topical moxidectin is recommended following an extensive study into feather mites in CPL horses. Cydectin pour-on 0.5% for cattle. At a dose of 1.5mg/kg body weight. 1ml of Cydectin contains 5mg of moxidectin. It was found conclusively to eradicate mites at the first application (second application is still recommended to catch the newly hatched eggs) with an unexpected but remarkable side effect of descaling hyperkeratosis from the legs over the following days and weeks.

Consult your vet before use.

Dose calculation for a 500kg horse:

500 x 1.5 = 750
750 ÷ 5 = 150
150 ÷ 4 = 37.5ml per leg

FAQ

Which Cydectin do I need?
Cydectin pour-on 0.5% for cattle

How/where do I apply it?
Using an oral syringe is easiest to draw up and dispense, below the knee and hock

Where can I get Cydectin from?
It is used off-license in equines (as are all mites treatments, including Dectomax injections) so you need a prescription from your vet

My vet is sceptical, what can I do?
Send them the study linked at the top of this page

Is it only sold in large amounts?
Yes, because it is sold for treating herds of livestock, in 1L and 2.5L bottles (perhaps the vet could buy a bottle for their own stock and dispense the appropriate amount?)

What is the treatment interval?
Short term (to catch newly hatched mites) 7-10 days
Long term, reinfestation was not noted until six months after eradication with Cydectin

When is it not appropriate to use Cydectin?
Do not use on youngstock or very thin/malnourished horses
Do not turn the horse out in direct sun after application, because of the oily nature of the liquid

Do I have to stable my horse after application?
Only until it has dried onto the leg

How long after application can I wash the legs?
Try to leave it as long as possible before washing, but 24-48 hours minimum.

Can I use it at the same time as an oral dewormer?
Your horse will be dewormed by the Cydectin application as it absorbs through the skin. So it is best not to use another dewormer at the same time unless your vet instructs you to. Remember, routine deworming causes resistance so always get a Faecal egg count or saliva test done to check for worms before treating with oral medication

I am in the USA and we only have purple-staining Cydectin. How long does the stain last?
Members of the CPL Facebook group state that the purple stain only lasts 2-3 days

General considerations: wear appropriate PPE (personal protective equipment), patch test if necessary, beware horses can have individual sensitivities/reactions to any active ingredient. ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR VET FOR NEW MEDICATIONS.