PetArmor vs. Nexgard
Pet owners are often faced with a barrage of choices when it comes to flea and tick prevention. Two popular choices that come up are PetArmor and Nexgard. But which one should you choose for your furry friend?
1. What are PetArmor and Nexgard?
PetArmor: PetArmor is a topical flea and tick treatment similar in formulation to Frontline. It is applied directly to the pet’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades, and offers a month of protection.
Nexgard: Nexgard is an oral chewable tablet designed to kill fleas and ticks. It starts working in 24 hours and offers a month of protection.
2. Efficacy: How Well Do They Work?
PetArmor: PetArmor uses fipronil as its active ingredient, which is known for its effectiveness against adult fleas and ticks. However, it might be less effective against flea eggs and larvae.
Nexgard: Nexgard uses afoxolaner as its active ingredient, which kills adult fleas before they lay eggs, thus preventing infestations. It also treats and controls three types of ticks: Lone Star ticks, Black-legged ticks, and American Dog ticks.
3. Ease of Administration: Topical vs. Oral
PetArmor: Being a topical solution, PetArmor might be a tad tricky to administer, especially on wriggly pets. There’s also the added caution of ensuring other pets or children don’t touch the application site until it’s dry.
Nexgard: As an oral treatment, Nexgard might be a preferable choice for those who have difficulty with topical applications. Many dogs also find the chewable tablet palatable.
4. Side Effects and Precautions
PetArmor: Some common side effects include temporary redness, itching, or hair loss at the application site. It’s crucial to choose the right dosage based on your pet’s weight.
Nexgard: Being an oral medication, Nexgard might cause digestive upset in some dogs, including vomiting or diarrhea. Again, selecting the appropriate dosage for your pet’s weight is essential.
5. Cost Comparison
PetArmor: Often praised for its affordability, PetArmor can be a more budget-friendly option, especially for those with multiple pets.
Nexgard: While it might be on the pricier side compared to PetArmor, Nexgard’s comprehensive protection against both fleas and a broader range of ticks might justify its cost for many pet owners.
6. Recommendations from Vets and Users
PetArmor: Often recommended for its affordability and the familiarity of its active ingredient, fipronil.
Nexgard: Highly recommended by many veterinarians for its efficacy and broad-spectrum protection. It also receives commendations from users for its ease of use and effectiveness.
7. Do Veterinarians Recommend PetArmor or Nexgard?
When evaluating products for flea and tick prevention, veterinarians consider multiple factors. Their recommendations are shaped by scientific studies, their clinical experiences, and patient-specific conditions. Here’s what vets have observed about PetArmor and Nexgard:
Efficacy and Spectrum of Protection
PetArmor: As mentioned earlier, PetArmor uses fipronil, a tried-and-tested ingredient that targets adult fleas and ticks. While effective, fipronil might not offer as broad a spectrum of protection against all life stages of fleas and various tick species.
Nexgard: Afoxolaner, the active ingredient in Nexgard, offers a more comprehensive protective barrier. It not only targets adult fleas but also prevents them from laying eggs. Moreover, Nexgard is effective against multiple tick species, providing a broader range of protection. Veterinarians often lean towards recommending treatments that offer comprehensive protection, making Nexgard a frequent choice.
Mode of Administration and Compliance
Pet owners’ compliance in administering treatments regularly and correctly is crucial. Veterinarians often factor in the ease of administration when making their recommendations.
PetArmor: While effective, topical treatments can sometimes be challenging to apply, especially if pets are uncooperative. There’s also the concern of ensuring that the solution doesn’t get washed off or that other pets don’t lick the treated area.
Nexgard: Being an oral chewable, Nexgard often has higher compliance rates. Dogs typically find it palatable, and there’s no mess or waiting time involved. This ease of administration can make it a more appealing recommendation for vets, especially for dogs that are frequently bathed or swim.
Safety Profile
While both products have been deemed safe for most pets, individual reactions can vary. Veterinarians always weigh the risk versus benefit for each patient.
PetArmor: Topical treatments can sometimes lead to localized reactions like redness, itching, or minor hair loss. Though these reactions are generally mild and temporary, they can be concerning for some pet owners.
Nexgard: Some dogs might experience digestive upsets, including vomiting or diarrhea, after consuming Nexgard. Rarely, more severe reactions like seizures have been reported, but it’s essential to note that such severe side effects are infrequent.
Feedback from Pet Owners
Veterinarians also factor in feedback from pet owners. Real-world experiences can offer additional insights into a product’s effectiveness and ease of use.
PetArmor: Many pet owners appreciate its affordability, especially for households with multiple pets. However, some have reported inconsistent results, particularly in regions with heavy flea infestations.
Nexgard: Many pet owners and veterinarians alike have reported consistent efficacy, even in challenging environments. The convenience of an oral chewable is often highlighted, along with its broader protection spectrum.
Frequently Asked Questions: PetArmor vs. Nexgard
1. How quickly do PetArmor and Nexgard start working?
PetArmor: Begins its action within 24 hours, targeting adult fleas and ticks. However, it may not eliminate the entire infestation immediately since it primarily targets adult pests.
Nexgard: Begins killing fleas within 4 hours of administration and ticks within 12 hours. By 24 hours, almost 100% of fleas are eradicated.
2. Can I use these products on pregnant or lactating dogs?
PetArmor: While fipronil has not been found to harm pregnant or nursing dogs, it’s crucial to consult a vet before using any medication on them.
Nexgard: Studies have shown that Nexgard is safe for use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. However, as always, a vet’s advice is essential.
3. Are there any known drug interactions with PetArmor and Nexgard?
PetArmor: There are no widely recognized drug interactions. However, always inform your vet about any treatments or medications your pet is currently receiving.
Nexgard: No specific drug interactions have been identified. But again, providing a complete medical history to your vet ensures your pet’s safety.
4. Can I use these products for cats?
PetArmor: Yes, there’s a variant of PetArmor specifically formulated for cats. It’s essential never to use dog-specific products on cats as it can lead to severe adverse reactions.
Nexgard: Nexgard is not formulated for cats. For feline protection, consider other products that are cat-specific.
5. How often should I administer PetArmor and Nexgard?
PetArmor: Typically applied once a month. Regular monthly application ensures continuous protection against fleas and ticks.
Nexgard: Given once a month. Being an oral chewable, it offers protection for an entire month from the day of consumption.
6. What if my dog has a known food allergy? Can they still take Nexgard?
Nexgard: The chewables are beef-flavored, and while they don’t contain actual beef, dogs with severe food allergies should be monitored when first introduced to the medication. Discuss any food allergies with your vet before administering Nexgard.
7. How should these products be storedZ?
PetArmor: Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Ensure it’s kept out of children’s reach and away from pets’ access.
Nexgard: It’s best stored at room temperature, in its original packaging, and away from children and pets.
8. Are there age restrictions for using PetArmor and Nexgard?
PetArmor: It’s suitable for dogs and puppies as young as 8 weeks, provided they weigh more than 5 lbs.
Nexgard: Suitable for puppies and dogs aged 8 weeks and older, weighing at least 4 lbs.
9. My dog didn’t chew the Nexgard tablet but swallowed it whole. Is it still effective?
Nexgard: Yes, Nexgard will still provide its full protection even if swallowed whole. The chewable is designed to be palatable, but its efficacy is not dependent on chewing.
10. What if my pet has a bad reaction after application or ingestion?
PetArmor: While rare, some dogs might show signs of skin irritation like redness, itching, or rashes. If these symptoms persist or if your pet shows signs of lethargy, vomiting, or unusual behavior, consult your vet immediately.
Nexgard: In rare cases, dogs might experience side effects like diarrhea, vomiting, dry/flaky skin, or lethargy. If any of these symptoms are severe or persist, it’s essential to get in touch with your vet.
11. Can I bathe my dog after applying PetArmor?
PetArmor: While the product remains effective after a bath or swimming, it’s recommended to wait at least 24-48 hours post-application before bathing your dog. This ensures optimal distribution and adherence of the medication to the skin.
12. Are there any breed-specific concerns when using Nexgard?
Nexgard: Some breeds, particularly the herding breeds like Collies or Australian Shepherds, have shown sensitivity to certain drugs. It’s always crucial to discuss any breed-specific concerns with your veterinarian.
13. Can I use other flea and tick products alongside PetArmor or Nexgard?
PetArmor: Using other flea and tick products simultaneously might increase the risk of over-medication or potential side effects. Always discuss with your vet before combining treatments.
Nexgard: Combining Nexgard with other treatments isn’t typically recommended without professional advice, to ensure your pet doesn’t experience an overdose or adverse reactions.
14. Do these products protect against heartworm?
PetArmor: No, PetArmor specifically targets fleas and ticks. It’s essential to use a separate heartworm preventative alongside it.
Nexgard: While Nexgard is potent against fleas and ticks, it doesn’t offer protection against heartworm. A combination of treatments or a comprehensive medication may be needed.
15. Can I use PetArmor or Nexgard on a dog with a compromised immune system?
PetArmor: If your dog has a health condition or compromised immune system, it’s vital to discuss any treatments with your vet to ensure they’re safe.
Nexgard: Similarly, any dog with a health condition should only be given Nexgard after thorough consultation with a veterinarian to ensure it won’t exacerbate the condition or interact with other medications.
16. How do these treatments impact the environment?
PetArmor: Fipronil, the main ingredient, can be toxic to aquatic life. It’s essential to ensure that dogs do not swim in natural water bodies for a few days post-application.
Nexgard: As an oral medication, Nexgard has less direct environmental impact. However, always ensure unused portions or packaging are disposed of correctly.
17. Is resistance a concern with prolonged use of these products?
PetArmor & Nexgard: Over time, some parasites may develop resistance to certain treatments. Regularly switching between different modes of action, under vet guidance, can help mitigate resistance.
