Making the right choice when it comes to flea control products for our pets is always a challenge. Two popular brands on the market today are Capstar and Advantus. Which is better, Capstar or Advantus? This article aims to provide an in-depth comparison of both products, to help you make an informed decision.
What is Capstar?
Capstar is an oral tablet that kills adult fleas on dogs and cats. It contains the active ingredient nitenpyram, which belongs to the chemical class of neonicotinoids.
How Does Capstar Work?
Upon ingestion, nitenpyram starts killing adult fleas within 30 minutes. It’s extremely fast-acting but doesn’t offer long-term protection; its effects only last for 24 hours.
What is Advantus?
Advantus, like Capstar, is an oral flea treatment for dogs. It contains imidacloprid, a chemical that also belongs to the neonicotinoid class.
How Does Advantus Work?
Similar to Capstar, Advantus starts killing fleas within one hour of administration and eliminates 96% of adult fleas within four hours. It doesn’t provide long-term protection, and its effects last for 24 hours.
Capstar Versus Advantus: The Battle
Now that we know the basics of both Capstar and Advantus let’s dive deeper and compare their effectiveness, safety, and cost.
Effectiveness
Both Capstar and Advantus are fast-acting and start working within an hour. Capstar claims to kill 90% of adult fleas within 4 hours for dogs and 6 hours for cats. Advantus claims to eliminate 96% of adult fleas within 4 hours. With such similar effectiveness rates, it’s tough to pick a clear winner in this category.
Safety
Capstar and Advantus are both safe to use on dogs and cats. However, Capstar can be used on puppies and kittens as young as four weeks old, while Advantus is only recommended for dogs and puppies aged 10 weeks and older.
Cost
In general, Advantus is slightly more expensive than Capstar. But prices can vary depending on the size and quantity you purchase.
The Verdict: Which is Better, Capstar or Advantus?
Both Capstar and Advantus are effective and safe for controlling fleas on pets. They work quickly but don’t provide long-term protection. Your choice might come down to the specific needs of your pet and your budget.
Considering All Factors
If you have young puppies or kittens, Capstar may be the better choice since it can be used on animals as young as four weeks. If cost is a significant factor for you, Capstar is generally cheaper. However, if you’re looking for slightly higher effectiveness, Advantus might be worth the extra cost.
Conclusion
In choosing between Capstar and Advantus, it ultimately comes down to your pet’s specific needs and your individual preferences. Both products are safe and effective for flea control. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any new flea treatment regimen.
