Key Takeaways
- NexGard is primarily used for the treatment and prevention of flea and tick infestations in dogs.
- NexGard Spectra, the advanced variant, not only handles fleas and ticks but also deals with intestinal worms and heartworms.
- Both treatments come in the form of beef-flavored chewables, offering ease of administration.
- NexGard contains a single active ingredient, Afoxolaner, while NexGard Spectra combines Afoxolaner with Milbemycin Oxime for a broader spectrum of protection.
- Before choosing between NexGard and NexGard Spectra, understanding your pet's specific health needs and consulting with a veterinarian is crucial.
When deciding on a parasitic treatment for your pet, the choice often narrows down to NexGard versus NexGard Spectra. These are two popular products that have been trusted by pet owners for years. The main distinction between the two is the range of parasites they act against; while NexGard focuses on ectoparasites such as fleas and ticks, NexGard Spectra works against both ectoparasites and endoparasites, including various worms. Let's delve deeper to understand each product's features and functionalities.
NexGard: Your Shield Against Fleas and Ticks
Manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim, NexGard is a beef-flavored chewable tablet formulated to kill fleas and ticks in dogs. The main active ingredient in this product is Afoxolaner, which targets the nervous systems of these parasites, causing hyperexcitation and, eventually, death.
NexGard not only disrupts flea cycles but also effectively kills several species of ticks, including the Black Legged Deer Tick, the American Dog Tick, and the Lone Star Tick. It operates swiftly, beginning to kill existing fleas within 8 hours of administration, providing a relief that lasts for a whole month.
NexGard Spectra: A Comprehensive Parasitic Solution
On the other hand, NexGard Spectra comes as an advanced solution, with a wider range of protection against parasitic infections. It not only contains Afoxolaner for flea and tick treatment but also includes Milbemycin Oxime, an active ingredient that fights against endoparasites such as various intestinal worms.
This dual-action formula ensures comprehensive protection, dealing with both external and internal parasitic problems. It is renowned for its efficacy against heartworm infections, provided it is administered regularly, giving it a significant edge in safeguarding your pet's health.
Dosage and Administration
Both NexGard and NexGard Spectra are known for their ease of administration, thanks to their palatable beef-flavored formulation. They provide a hassle-free experience as opposed to topical treatments, especially for pet owners with fidgety dogs.
However, while both products offer a similar level of convenience, it is important to adhere to the specified dosage guidelines based on your dog's weight. It is generally advised to administer these treatments monthly to maintain effective protection against parasites.
Safety and Side Effects
While both products are deemed safe for dogs, it is important to monitor for any side effects when administering any new treatment. Some of the known side effects include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and lack of appetite.
Particular attention should be paid if your pet has a history of neurological disorders or seizures. NexGard and NexGard Spectra should only be used in puppies that are at least 8 weeks old and weigh more than 4 pounds.
FAQs: Your Queries Answered
Before you settle on either NexGard or NexGard Spectra, you might have a range of questions about their efficacy, safety, and administration. In our FAQ section, we strive to answer the most common questions that pet owners have regarding these products, providing detailed insights to help you make an informed choice.
What are NexGard and NexGard Spectra?
NexGard is a beef-flavored chewable tablet designed to protect dogs from fleas, ticks, and mites, thanks to its active ingredient afoxolaner which targets the nervous system of these parasites, eventually eliminating them.
NexGard Spectra is an extended version of NexGard, formulated with an additional active ingredient, milbemycin oxime. This means it not only tackles fleas, ticks, and mites but also protects against heartworms and various intestinal worms, offering a broader spectrum of protection for your pet.
What is the primary difference between NexGard and NexGard Spectra?
The fundamental distinction between the two is the protection they offer against different kinds of parasites. While NexGard focusses on exterminating ectoparasites like fleas, ticks, and mites, NexGard Spectra provides a more comprehensive protection by eliminating both ectoparasites and endoparasites including various intestinal worms, and it also prevents heartworm infection.
How do NexGard and NexGard Spectra work?
Both NexGard and NexGard Spectra are oral treatments that work systematically. After administration, the active ingredients - afoxolaner (present in both) and milbemycin oxime (only in NexGard Spectra) circulate in the pet's bloodstream. When a parasite bites the pet, it ingests the blood containing these active ingredients, which then act on the nervous system of the parasites, causing hyperexcitation and eventual death.
How should these medications be administered?
Both NexGard and NexGard Spectra are oral treatments and are administered as chewable tablets. These should be given once a month, and it's important to adhere to this schedule to ensure ongoing protection for your pet. Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines to understand the correct dosage for your pet, which is determined based on the pet's body weight.
Can they be used for puppies?
Yes, both NexGard and NexGard Spectra can be administered to puppies. However, they should be at least 8 weeks old and weigh a minimum of 4 pounds. It is recommended to consult with your vet before starting any new medication, especially with puppies to ascertain the correct dosage and to ensure it's safe for your puppy's specific needs.
What if my pet is currently on another treatment?
Both NexGard and NexGard Spectra are generally considered safe to use alongside other pharmaceutical products. Nevertheless, always consult your vet before combining treatments to ensure there are no adverse reactions or contraindications with other medications your pet may be taking. Additionally, it is never recommended to administer more than one form of pharmacological protection for specific parasites within the span of the medication’s effective duration.
Are there any side effects I should be aware of?
While most dogs tolerate NexGard and NexGard Spectra quite well, there can be side effects, including vomiting, itching, lethargy, diarrhea, and reduced appetite. In rare cases, it can affect dogs with a history of neurological disorders or seizures. It is always recommended to keep a watchful eye on your pet after administering any new medication and to consult your vet if you notice any adverse reactions.
Can I give NexGard or NexGard Spectra to my cat or other pets?
No, both NexGard and NexGard Spectra are specifically designed for dogs and should not be administered to cats or other pets. There are other products available that are formulated specially to protect cats and other pets from parasites.
Where can I purchase NexGard and NexGard Spectra?
You can purchase NexGard and NexGard Spectra from our site Pawviva. Both products are available without the need for a prior vet prescription and can be delivered to your door for free. To ensure your pup is always protected, choose PawPass and save 35% on your first order and 5% on all future orders.
Conclusion
In the quest to maintain your pet's health, choosing the right anti-parasitic treatment plays a pivotal role. Whether you opt for NexGard or NexGard Spectra, both products stand tall as reliable options. The ultimate decision rests on your pet's specific health requirements.
Remember, a healthy pet is a happy pet, and taking proactive measures against parasitic infections is a step in the right direction. With the detailed information provided here, we hope you find the perfect match in NexGard or NexGard Spectra for your furry friend. Feel free to ask any question and let's work towards a parasite-free, healthy life for your pet!