When it comes to protecting our furry friends from fleas and ticks, there are numerous options available on the market. Two popular choices are NexGard and Comfortis. Both products are designed to effectively and safely eliminate fleas and ticks from dogs, but they differ in their active ingredients and administration method. In this article, we will compare NexGard and Comfortis to help you make an informed decision about which treatment is best for your pet.
What is NexGard?
NexGard is a chewable flea and tick treatment for dogs. It is formulated with a powerful active ingredient called afoxolaner, which belongs to the isoxazoline class of drugs. Afoxolaner works by targeting the nervous system of fleas and ticks, leading to their paralysis and eventual death. This oral treatment is highly effective in killing adult fleas before they have a chance to lay eggs, helping to break the flea life cycle.
How Does NexGard Work?
When a dog ingests NexGard, the active ingredient is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream. Once fleas or ticks bite the dog, they are exposed to afoxolaner, which disrupts their nervous system. This causes paralysis and death within hours, providing fast relief from flea and tick infestations. NexGard continues to protect dogs for a full month, ensuring continuous flea and tick prevention.
Is NexGard Safe for Dogs?
NexGard has been extensively tested and is considered safe for use in dogs. However, as with any medication, there may be some potential side effects. The most commonly reported side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and lack of appetite. These side effects are usually mild and transient. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before starting your pet on NexGard to ensure it is suitable for their specific needs.
What is Comfortis?
Comfortis is another popular flea and tick treatment that comes in the form of a chewable tablet. Unlike NexGard, Comfortis contains the active ingredient spinosad, which belongs to the class of drugs known as spinosyns. Spinosad works by targeting the nervous system of fleas, causing hyperexcitation and eventual death.
How Does Comfortis Work?
When a dog ingests Comfortis, the active ingredient spinosad is absorbed into the bloodstream. Fleas that bite the dog are exposed to spinosad, which leads to their rapid demise. Comfortis starts killing fleas within 30 minutes and provides a full month of protection against flea infestations.
Is Comfortis Safe for Dogs?
Comfortis is generally safe for use in dogs, but as with any medication, there may be potential side effects. The most commonly reported side effects of Comfortis include vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. These side effects are usually mild and transient. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before starting your pet on Comfortis to ensure it is the right choice for them.
NexGard vs Comfortis: A Comparison
Now that we have discussed the basics of NexGard and Comfortis, let’s compare them based on various factors:
Effectiveness
Both NexGard and Comfortis are highly effective in killing fleas. However, NexGard also provides protection against ticks, making it a better choice for dogs that are at risk of tick infestations. If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors or in wooded areas, NexGard may offer better protection against ticks.
Administration
NexGard and Comfortis differ in their administration method. NexGard is a chewable tablet that dogs can easily consume, while Comfortis is a chewable tablet that can be given with or without food. Some dogs may prefer one form over the other, so it is important to consider your pet’s preferences when choosing a flea and tick treatment.
Safety
Both NexGard and Comfortis are considered safe for use in dogs, but they may cause mild side effects in some cases. It is important to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your pet does not have any underlying health conditions that may contraindicate the use of these medications.
Price
The price of NexGard and Comfortis can vary depending on the size of your dog and the quantity of tablets required. It is advisable to compare prices and consider any ongoing promotions or discounts before making a purchase.
Convenience
Both NexGard and Comfortis provide convenient monthly protection against fleas. However, NexGard offers the added benefit of tick prevention, which may be a more convenient option for dog owners who want comprehensive protection against both fleas and ticks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both NexGard and Comfortis are effective flea and tick treatments for dogs. NexGard provides protection against both fleas and ticks, making it a suitable choice for dogs at risk of tick infestations.
Comfortis, on the other hand, is solely focused on eliminating fleas. Ultimately, the choice between NexGard and Comfortis depends on your pet’s specific needs and preferences. It is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the most suitable option for your furry friend.
