Treatment Option for Feline Health: An Expert Review by Elizabeth Racine, DVM, Assessed by Brittany Kleszynski, DVM on March 28, 2025, and Published on March 9, 2023.
Got a scratchy-eared kitty? If your feline friend's ears are driving them mad with itch or you spot some tell-tale signs like head bobbing, a visit to the vet is in order. They might end up prescribing Tresaderm, a popular treatment for ear infections and ear mites in cats. So, what the heck is Tresaderm, and how does it help our furry friends find relief?
What's This Tresaderm Thing All About?
Tresaderm is a topical solution that packs a punch, combining a steroid (dexamethasone), an antifungal (thiabendazole), and an antibiotic (neomycin). This powerful combo helps combat various infections and soothe irritated ear canals or skin in both dogs and cats. The name-brand Tresaderm is Merial Ltd's baby, but there's an FDA-approved generic, too, manufactured by Putney, Inc., called thiabendazole, dexamethasone, neomycin sulfate solution.
Tresaderm: A Cat-Friendly Medication
Tresaderm is safe for topical use for cats and is widely prescribed to our feline friends without raising any serious concerns. Most cats tolerate it well, and side effects, when they occur, are typically mild[4]. You'll need a prescription from your vet to get your paws on the stuff.
What Does Tresaderm Look Like?
The brand-name Tresaderm comes in a white dropper bottle, available in 7.5 mL or 15 mL sizes. It's important to keep Tresaderm refrigerated until use[2]. The generic version of thiabendazole, dexamethasone, neomycin sulfate solution may come packaged differently.
How Tresaderm Works Its Magic
Tresaderm’s ingredients work together to tackle infections and soothe inflammation:
- Dexamethasone: A corticosteroid that eases inflammation and itching.
- Neomycin sulfate: An antibiotic that battles bacteria.
- Thiabendazole: An antifungal and antiparasitic agent effective against fungi and some parasites[1].
Common Reasons Vets Prescribe Tresaderm
Tresaderm is approved by the FDA to treat various skin and ear infections in cats and dogs. The vet might recommend it for conditions like:
- Bacterial ear infections
- Yeast ear infections
- Ear mites
- Skin infections
Applying Tresaderm for Cat Ear Infections
For ear infections, Tresaderm is squirted directly into the ear canal. With the tip of the bottle pointed down, gently squeeze the desired number of drops into the ear[4]. Afterward, rub your cat’s ear base for a few seconds to help the med work its way in[3]. Be prepared for some head-shaking action – it's all good! If your vet tells you to treat both ears, apply the treatment to the second ear the same way.
Using Tresaderm for Cat Skin Infections
For skin infections, Tresaderm is applied as a light layer to affected areas. Hold the bottle vertically, squeeze gently to dampen the area (around 2-4 drops per square inch of infected skin), and avoid letting your cat lick it off[3]. You might need to use a protective collar, like an e-collar or Elizabethan collar, to keep your kitty from licking the area.
Potential Side Effects When Using Tresaderm
While Tresaderm is generally safe for cats, it can cause local reactions at the application site in some cats, including redness[2], hearing loss if given to cats with ruptured eardrums, and temporary discomfort if applied to irritated or exposed skin[4]. If you suspect your cat is experiencing side effects, stop treatment and talk to your vet immediately.
Interaction of Tresaderm with Other Medications
Since Tresaderm is only used topically and isn't significantly absorbed into the system, it's less likely to interfere with other medications your cat might be taking[3].
Tresaderm Dosage for Cats
Your cat's dose will vary depending on their size and the severity of their infection, but treatments for ear infections and skin infections usually require drops applied twice daily as prescribed by your vet[3]. It's crucial to follow dosage instructions carefully and to complete the entire course of treatment, even if your cat appears to feel better before finishing the medication[3].
Skipping a Dose
If your cat misses a dose, administer it as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due soon, skip the missed dose and continue with the scheduled doses. If your cat has missed multiple doses, contact your vet for guidance[3].
Cost of Tresaderm for Cats
The cost of Tresaderm depends on your location and your cat's prescription size, but expect to pay around $25-50 for this product. The generic version of Tresaderm may cost less[4].
Storing Tresaderm
When you're not using Tresaderm, keep it refrigerated at a temperature between 36-46°F (2-8°C)[2].
Sources:1. Merial Product Information2. PetMD3. VCA Hospitals4. Cats.com5. Merck Veterinary Manual
Tresaderm, apart from being a popular treatment for ear infections and ear mites in cats, also aids in the management of skin infections due to its combination of a steroid, antifungal, and antibiotic properties. It's a health-and-wellness solution that promotes skin-care for both cats and dogs, ensuring they find relief from various infections and irritations.
