Advantix vs Nexgard

Dog owners worldwide often find themselves overwhelmed with the plethora of flea and tick prevention options available. Two of the most popular brands, Advantix and Nexgard, frequently become the topic of debate.

The Importance of Flea and Tick Prevention

Fleas and ticks are not only irritating for your pet, but they can also transmit harmful diseases. As prevention is always better than cure, it’s crucial to choose an effective product to keep these pests at bay.

Advantix: An Overview

Key Features

• Type: Topical
• Active Ingredients: Imidacloprid, Permethrin, and Pyriproxyfen
• Effect: Kills and repels fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, biting flies, and lice.

Advantages

• Acts fast, usually within 12 hours.
• Provides broad-spectrum protection.
• Repels pests before they bite, thus reducing the risk of disease transmission.

Limitations

• Shouldn’t be used on cats.
• Requires careful application to ensure effectiveness.
• Might be washed off if the dog is frequently bathed or swims.

Nexgard: A Closer Look

Key Features

• Type: Oral
• Active Ingredient: Afoxolaner
• Effect: Kills adult fleas and ticks.

Advantages

• Easy administration with a tasty chewable tablet.
• Provides protection for an entire month.
• Not affected by bathing or swimming.

Limitations

• Only acts when the pests bite the dog.
• Some dogs may experience digestive issues.

Advantix vs Nexgard: Head-to-Head Comparison

Mode of Administration

While Advantix is a topical solution applied to the dog’s skin, Nexgard is an oral medication consumed by the dog.

Onset of Action

Advantix begins to repel and kill pests within 12 hours, whereas Nexgard requires the pests to bite the dog before they are affected.

Effect Duration

Both products offer month-long protection.

Safety Profile

Both products are generally safe when used as directed. However, it’s essential to consult with your vet regarding any pre-existing conditions your pet might have.

Convenience

Nexgard’s oral administration is generally seen as more convenient, especially for dogs who love water, as it won’t wash off.

Combining Advantix and Nexgard

Many vets and pet experts suggest that for those living in areas with high pest prevalence, combining both products can offer an enhanced protection strategy. However, always consult your vet before starting any combined treatment.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice

Both Advantix and Nexgard offer effective protection against fleas and ticks. The best choice largely depends on the lifestyle of your dog and your personal preferences. Those seeking a repellent effect might lean towards Advantix, while others who prefer the convenience of an oral treatment might opt for Nexgard. No matter your decision, ensuring your dog remains protected is of utmost importance.

FAQs: Advantix vs Nexgard

1. How frequently should I administer Advantix or Nexgard to my dog?

Both Advantix and Nexgard are designed to offer protection for a month. However, in regions with a high incidence of pests or during peak flea and tick seasons, checking with your vet about the ideal frequency is a wise choice.

2. Can I use Advantix on my cat if I have leftover doses?

No. Advantix contains permethrin, which is toxic to cats. If you have both cats and dogs, ensure the cat doesn’t come in contact with the dog immediately after applying Advantix.

3. Are there any potential side effects with these treatments?

While both products are generally safe, side effects can occur. Nexgard might lead to digestive issues, lethargy, or itching in some dogs. Advantix can cause skin irritation at the application site. If you notice any severe or prolonged side effects, contact your vet immediately.

4. What should I do if my dog has an allergic reaction to either product?

If you notice signs like swelling, intense itching, redness, or difficulty breathing, your pet might be having an allergic reaction. Wash off any topical treatment with mild soap and water and consult your vet promptly.

5. Can puppies be treated with Advantix or Nexgard?

Advantix can be used on puppies as young as 7 weeks old. For Nexgard, it’s safe to administer to puppies 8 weeks and older, weighing at least 4 pounds.

6. How do these treatments interact with other medications?

There’s no widely documented interaction between these products and other common dog medications. However, always inform your vet about any other treatments or medications your dog might be on.

7. Does rain or swimming affect the efficiency of Advantix?

Advantix remains effective after a single swimming session or after exposure to rain. However, frequent water exposure shortly after application might reduce its efficacy. It’s best to avoid water activities for 48 hours post-application.

8. How does Nexgard work if it’s ingested orally?

Nexgard contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which circulates in the dog’s bloodstream. When fleas or ticks bite the dog, they ingest the afoxolaner, leading to their eventual death.

9. Can I split a Nexgard chewable between two dogs for cost-saving?

It’s not recommended. Dosages are tailored according to a dog’s weight to ensure effectiveness. Splitting might lead to an inadequate dose, rendering the treatment ineffective or even risking potential side effects.

10. If my dog shows no signs of fleas or ticks, can I skip doses?

Even if your dog seems free of pests, prevention is pivotal. Fleas and ticks can infest rapidly, and the diseases they carry can be serious. Consistent monthly treatments are essential to ensure your pet’s safety and health.

11. How do environmental factors affect the potency of these treatments?

Environmental elements like humidity, temperature, and landscape can impact the population of fleas and ticks. While both products are designed to remain effective in varied conditions, areas with dense woods or high humidity might see an increase in tick and flea populations. Regular grooming and pest checks can help in early detection.

12. Can pregnant or nursing dogs use Advantix or Nexgard?

For pregnant or nursing dogs, always consult with your veterinarian before administering any treatment. The safety of Nexgard in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs hasn’t been evaluated. Advantix should also be used under a vet’s guidance in such cases.

13. How long should I wait between switching from one product to the other?

Typically, it’s advisable to wait until the previous treatment’s duration ends before beginning another. So, if you’re switching from Advantix to Nexgard, wait for a month from the last Advantix application before administering Nexgard.

14. Can these treatments cause resistance in fleas and ticks?

There’s no significant evidence suggesting fleas and ticks develop resistance to these treatments. However, always rotating treatments yearly can help in reducing any minor chances.

15. How are storage conditions vital for these treatments?

Storing treatments in extreme temperatures can degrade their effectiveness. Ensure you keep both Nexgard and Advantix in cool, dry places, away from direct sunlight.

16. If my dog gets a bath frequently, will Advantix remain effective?

While Advantix is water-resistant, frequent bathing with medicated or degreasing shampoos can strip its effectiveness. Limiting baths or using gentle shampoos can help maintain its efficacy.

17. Are there any breeds that are sensitive to these treatments?

Some herding breeds, like Collies or Australian Shepherds, can be sensitive to drugs that affect the central nervous system. Though rare, it’s essential to monitor your dog after the first administration and consult your vet for breed-specific concerns.

18. How do these treatments compare in terms of cost-effectiveness?

Both treatments can be considered investments in your pet’s health, potentially saving on future vet bills. Nexgard, being oral, might be priced slightly higher than Advantix. However, considering convenience and pet preferences, choosing one over the other can differ for individual pet owners.

19. If my dog has had a history of seizures, are these treatments safe?

Nexgard’s manufacturer mentions rare reports of seizures. If your dog has a history of seizures, consult your vet before using Nexgard or any other medication.

20. How do I dispose of expired products safely?

Expired medications and treatments shouldn’t be disposed of in regular trash or flushed. Consult with your local veterinary office or pharmacy about safe disposal methods to prevent environmental contamination.

21. Are these treatments safe for puppies and senior dogs?

Advantix is safe for puppies as young as seven weeks old. Nexgard, on the other hand, can be given to puppies that are at least eight weeks old and weigh 4 pounds or more. Senior dogs should not have any specific adverse reactions solely based on their age, but always consult a vet considering their overall health and potential age-related sensitivities.

22. How do these treatments interact with other medications?

Neither Advantix nor Nexgard is known to have widespread interactions with other common canine medications. However, always provide your vet with a comprehensive list of treatments and supplements your pet is taking before starting a new preventive measure.

23. Can these products be used on cats?

Advantix is strictly for dogs and can be lethal if applied to cats. It’s essential to keep treated dogs away from cats for 24 hours. Nexgard is dog-specific, too, but a feline version called Nexgard Spectra for cats is available in some regions.

24. If my dog only stays indoors, do they still need these treatments?

Yes. Fleas and ticks can enter homes on clothes, other pets, or even come in from a neighboring infested area. An indoor lifestyle doesn’t make dogs immune to these pests, so preventive measures are advised.

25. What are the environmental impacts of these treatments?

Both treatments, when used as directed, have minimal environmental impact. However, it’s essential not to wash dogs in natural water bodies immediately after application. This prevents the chemicals from entering the ecosystem.

26. Are there any reported side effects concerning the dog’s coat, like discoloration?

Advantix might cause temporary discoloration or a greasy appearance at the application site. It’s not common but has been reported. Nexgard, being an oral medication, doesn’t have any topical effects on the coat.

27. How quickly do these treatments start working after administration?

Nexgard begins killing fleas within 3 hours and ticks within 8 hours after administration. Advantix starts repelling and killing ticks within 10 minutes and stops fleas from biting in less than 5 minutes.

28. If I see a tick on my dog after using these treatments, should I be alarmed?

No treatment is 100% foolproof. If you find a tick, remove it properly and monitor the site. These treatments significantly reduce the risk of disease transmission from the tick to the dog.

29. Are there any geographical locations where one treatment outperforms the other?

Both treatments are designed for broad effectiveness, but local vets might have insights on specific pests common in their area. They could recommend one product over another based on regional pest resistance or prevalence.

30. Is weight a determining factor in choosing between these treatments?

Both treatments come in various dosages based on weight brackets to ensure safety and effectiveness. Always ensure you’re administering the correct dose related to your dog’s weight.