Keeping our pets safe and protected from fleas and ticks is a top priority for pet owners. These pesky parasites can not only cause discomfort for our furry friends but also transmit harmful diseases. Fortunately, there are several effective flea and tick medications available on the market.
In this article, we will compare two popular options: NexGard and Credelio. Both medications are known for their effectiveness in combating fleas and ticks, but they have their own unique features and benefits. Let’s dive into the details and find out which one may be the best choice for your pet.
What is NexGard?
NexGard is a chewable flea and tick medication that is widely used by pet owners around the world. It is a prescription-only medication that contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which belongs to the class of drugs known as isoxazolines. NexGard works by targeting the nervous system of fleas and ticks, resulting in their paralysis and death.
How does NexGard work?
When administered to your furry friend, NexGard quickly gets absorbed into their bloodstream. Once a flea or tick bites your pet, they ingest the medication, which then starts to disrupt the parasites’ nervous system. This ultimately leads to the elimination of fleas and ticks, preventing infestations and protecting your pet from potential diseases.
Benefits of NexGard
NexGard offers several benefits that make it a popular choice among pet owners:
- Long-lasting protection: NexGard provides protection against fleas and ticks for up to 30 days, ensuring continuous coverage.
- Easy administration: The chewable form of NexGard makes it easy to administer to your pet. Most dogs find it palatable, making the dosing process hassle-free.
- Fast-acting: NexGard starts killing fleas within 4 hours and ticks within 8 hours after administration, providing quick relief for your pet.
What is Credelio?
Credelio is another popular flea and tick medication that is available in a chewable tablet form. It contains the active ingredient lotilaner, which also belongs to the isoxazoline class of drugs. Credelio works by interfering with the parasites’ nervous system, leading to their paralysis and death.
How does Credelio work?
Once administered, Credelio gets absorbed into your pet’s bloodstream. When a flea or tick bites your furry friend, they ingest the medication, which then starts to disrupt the parasites’ central nervous system. This ultimately leads to their demise and prevents further infestations.
Benefits of Credelio
Credelio offers several advantages that make it a popular choice among pet owners:
- Long-lasting efficacy: Credelio provides protection against fleas and ticks for up to 30 days, ensuring continuous coverage and preventing reinfestations.
- Rapid action: Credelio starts killing fleas within 4 hours and ticks within 8 hours after administration, providing fast relief for your pet.
- Safe for puppies: Credelio is approved for use in puppies as young as 8 weeks old and weighing at least 4.4 pounds, making it suitable for young pets.
NexGard vs Credelio: A Comparison
Now that we have a basic understanding of NexGard and Credelio, let’s compare them on various factors to help you make an informed decision for your pet.
Effectiveness
Both NexGard and Credelio are highly effective in killing fleas and ticks. They provide rapid relief and long-lasting protection against infestations. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of these medications may vary depending on the specific needs of your pet and the severity of the infestation.
Administration
NexGard and Credelio are both available in chewable forms, making administration easy and convenient. Most dogs find the taste palatable, ensuring that they consume the medication without any issues. It is recommended to administer the medication with a meal to maximize its absorption.
Safety
Both medications have been extensively tested for safety and are approved by regulatory authorities. However, as with any medication, there may be some potential side effects. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before starting any flea and tick medication to ensure it is safe for your pet, especially if they have any underlying health conditions.
Price
The cost of NexGard and Credelio may vary depending on factors such as the size of your pet and the quantity of medication required. It is advisable to compare prices from different sources and consult with your veterinarian to determine the most cost-effective option for your pet’s needs.
Additional Protection
In addition to killing fleas and ticks, both NexGard and Credelio provide additional protection against other parasites. NexGard also helps in the prevention of mange mites, while Credelio helps in the prevention of heartworm disease caused by Dirofilaria immitis.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing between NexGard and Credelio, both medications offer effective and convenient solutions for protecting your pet from fleas and ticks. It is important to consider factors such as your pet’s specific needs, your budget, and any additional protection required. Consulting with your veterinarian will help you make an informed decision and ensure the health and well-being of your furry friend.
