Comfortis vs. NexGard

When it comes to protecting our furry friends from pests, the battle against fleas remains at the forefront of every pet owner’s mind. Two products that frequently come up in conversations are Comfortis and NexGard. But how do they compare, and which one is right for your dog?

What are Comfortis and NexGard?

Comfortis: An oral flea preventative, Comfortis starts working within 30 minutes, eliminating over 98% of fleas in just four hours. Its active ingredient, spinosad, targets adult fleas, ensuring that they can’t reproduce.

NexGard: Not only is NexGard effective against fleas, but it also combats ticks. As a chewable tablet, it disrupts the life cycle of both pests, offering protection for a full month.

Efficacy: Which Works Better?

Flea Prevention

Both products are extremely effective against fleas. Comfortis has the edge in speed, starting its action in as little as 30 minutes, while NexGard usually takes a few hours. However, both guarantee almost complete elimination of adult fleas within 24 hours.

Ticks Prevention

NexGard has an advantage here, as it’s also a tick preventative. Comfortis does not offer protection against ticks, meaning if ticks are a concern in your area, NexGard might be the better choice.

Side Effects: What to Look Out For

Every medication has the potential for side effects, and these flea preventatives are no exception.

Comfortis: The most common side effect observed is vomiting, especially if the dog hasn’t eaten before taking the tablet. Other side effects might include reduced appetite, lethargy, or diarrhea.

NexGard: Some dogs might experience vomiting, diarrhea, dry or flaky skin, and lethargy. Although rare, more serious side effects can occur, so always monitor your pet after administering a new medication.

Cost: Breaking Down the Price

The price of both medications varies depending on where you purchase them, the size of the pack, and any discounts or promotions. Generally, NexGard tends to be more expensive given its dual-action against fleas and ticks. However, the peace of mind knowing your pet is protected might be worth the extra cost.

Considerations for Specific Breeds

Certain breeds, like Greyhounds, are known for their sensitivities to medications. While both Comfortis and NexGard are considered safe for most breeds, always consult with your veterinarian before making a choice, especially if you own a breed with known sensitivities.

The Final Verdict

Ultimately, the choice between Comfortis and NexGard boils down to your specific needs:

  • If you’re looking for a rapid-action, flea-only treatment and are on a tighter budget, Comfortis might be your pick.
  • If you want comprehensive protection against both fleas and ticks, and are okay with a slightly higher price tag, NexGard is the way to go.

Either way, always make informed decisions based on your dog’s health, breed, age, and environment. And remember, regular check-ups with your vet are the best way to ensure the well-being of your beloved pet.

FAQs on Comfortis vs. NexGard

1. How do Comfortis and NexGard work?

Comfortis: The active ingredient, spinosad, targets the nervous system of adult fleas, rendering them paralyzed and leading to their eventual death. Since it targets only adult fleas, it prevents them from reproducing.

NexGard: NexGard contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which interferes with the nervous system of fleas and ticks, causing over-stimulation and eventual death.

2. Can I use Comfortis and NexGard concurrently?

It’s essential to avoid mixing flea and tick medications without consulting your veterinarian. Each medication is designed with specific dosages in mind, and combining them could lead to an overdose or potential negative interactions.

3. How should I administer these medications?

Both Comfortis and NexGard are oral treatments. Administering with food can help decrease the chances of stomach upset and ensure better absorption of the medication.

4. How often should I give my dog these treatments?

Comfortis: It’s a monthly treatment, which means you should give your dog a new dose every 30 days.

NexGard: Similarly, NexGard is also administered monthly. Ensure consistent monthly dosing for continued protection.

5. Are there any age or weight restrictions for these medications?

Comfortis: Suitable for dogs and puppies 14 weeks of age and older.

NexGard: Suitable for dogs and puppies 8 weeks of age and older, weighing 4 pounds or more.

6. Can pregnant or breeding dogs take Comfortis or NexGard?

If you have a pregnant, lactating, or breeding dog, always consult with your vet before administering any medication. The safety of Comfortis in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs has not been established. NexGard’s studies have shown no evidence of adverse effects on breeding dogs.

7. What if I miss a dose?

If you forget a dose, administer the medication as soon as you remember and maintain a regular schedule from there. Missing a dose can leave your dog vulnerable to fleas or ticks during the interim.

8. How long should I continue treatment?

Both Comfortis and NexGard offer monthly protection. However, flea and tick threats can vary by season and region. It’s advisable to maintain a year-round prevention routine, ensuring optimal protection against infestations.

9. Are there any storage recommendations?

Store both medications in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Always keep out of reach of children and other pets.

10. What if my dog shows adverse reactions?

If your dog exhibits any unusual symptoms or reactions after taking either medication, consult your veterinarian immediately. Monitoring your pet for a few hours post-administration can help detect early signs of discomfort or adverse reactions.

11. How does resistance develop, and are Comfortis or NexGard affected?

Over time, parasites like fleas and ticks can develop resistance to certain treatments due to genetic mutations. However, as of now, there have been minimal reports of resistance towards the active ingredients in both Comfortis and NexGard. Regularly alternating between different classes of preventatives can help delay resistance development.

12. Are these treatments safe for all breeds?

While both Comfortis and NexGard are safe for most breeds, some dogs might be more sensitive than others. Breeds with known drug sensitivities, like Collies or Australian Shepherds, should be monitored closely or prescribed alternative treatments.

13. Can I administer these to cats?

Comfortis: Yes, Comfortis has a formulation specifically designed for cats. Ensure you purchase the correct dosage based on your cat’s weight.

NexGard: Currently, NexGard is only approved for use in dogs. Always avoid giving dog-specific treatments to cats as it can result in severe adverse reactions.

14. How do environmental factors affect the efficacy of these treatments?

Environmental infestations can impact the perceived effectiveness of these treatments. Even if your pet is on preventative treatments, a heavily infested environment can continuously expose them to new fleas or ticks. Regular cleaning, vacuuming, and treating outdoor areas can augment the efficacy of oral preventatives.

15. Can I give these treatments to a dog with health conditions?

If your dog has existing health issues like liver or kidney problems, or a history of seizures, consult your vet before starting any new medication. They will evaluate the potential risks and benefits, offering alternatives if needed.

16. How do these medications interact with other drugs?

While both Comfortis and NexGard have wide margins of safety, they might interact with other drugs. Especially when administering multiple treatments or if your pet is on long-term medication, always consult your vet for potential drug interactions.

17. Are there any food restrictions while using these treatments?

No specific food restrictions are associated with these medications. However, administering with a meal often enhances absorption and minimizes gastrointestinal disturbances.

18. What’s the onset of action for Comfortis and NexGard?

Comfortis: Begins killing fleas within 30 minutes of ingestion, and 98%+ are dead in 4 hours.

NexGard: Starts killing fleas within 24 hours and ticks within 48 hours after ingestion.

19. Do these treatments have a repellent property?

Neither Comfortis nor NexGard repels fleas or ticks. Instead, these parasites must bite the host to ingest the drug, after which they are affected and eventually die.

20. What happens if my dog chews or swallows more than the recommended dose?

Overdosing can be harmful. If you suspect an overdose, contact your vet or an emergency clinic immediately. Symptoms might include vomiting, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

21. How often should I switch between flea and tick treatments?

Switching treatments isn’t always necessary unless you notice reduced effectiveness or if there’s a specific reason, such as breed sensitivities. Consult your veterinarian for personalized guidance tailored to your pet’s needs.

22. Can pregnant or lactating dogs take Comfortis or NexGard?

Comfortis: Clinical testing for safety in breeding females has not been completed, so it’s best to consult with your vet.

NexGard: It’s deemed safe for use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs, based on limited data. However, always discuss with your vet before making a decision.

23. What should I do if my dog shows no improvement after using these treatments?

If your dog continues to suffer from flea or tick infestations even after treatment, consider other factors. Environmental infestations, interactions with untreated animals, or resistance could be contributing. Schedule a vet appointment for a comprehensive evaluation.

24. Can puppies take Comfortis or NexGard?

Comfortis: Puppies aged 14 weeks and older can safely take Comfortis.

NexGard: Suitable for puppies aged 8 weeks and older, weighing at least 4 pounds.

25. How do storage conditions affect the potency of these drugs?

Store both drugs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures or moisture can compromise their effectiveness. Always check the expiry date before administration.

26. Can I use these treatments if my dog is on a heartworm medication?

Many pet owners combine flea and tick treatments with heartworm preventatives. However, always check with your vet to ensure there are no potential drug interactions.

27. How long do I need to wait between administering Comfortis and NexGard?

Both are monthly treatments. It’s advisable to wait a month between switching products unless directed otherwise by a vet.

28. Are there any natural alternatives to these treatments?

While there are natural remedies touted for flea and tick prevention, such as diatomaceous earth or essential oils, their efficacy and safety haven’t been as extensively researched as pharmaceutical treatments. Always use natural products with caution and under a vet’s advice.

29. Can these medications cause allergic reactions?

Allergic reactions are rare but possible. Symptoms might include hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling. If you notice any of these signs post-administration, seek veterinary attention immediately.

30. How does the cost of Comfortis compare to NexGard?

Prices can vary based on location, retailer, or promotions. It’s best to compare costs at local veterinary clinics, pharmacies, or authorized online retailers to find the most affordable option.

HELP US PUT FOOD ON THE TABLE

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to Top