NexGard Spectra is a popular pet medication, lauded for its efficacy in treating a variety of parasites, from fleas to heartworms. But what does NexGard Spectra not cover? It's essential to delve into the nitty-gritty because, while this drug is a powerful tool in your pet healthcare arsenal, it's not a panacea.
Key Takeaways
- NexGard Spectra is effective against a variety of parasites but isn't a cure-all.
- While NexGard Spectra has been shown to be 100% effective in preventing flea tapeworm infestation, it does not kill already present tapeworms.
- Additional treatments and supplements may be required for complete health coverage.
A Pillar of Modern Pet Healthcare: NexGard Spectra
NexGard Spectra has quickly become a cornerstone in preventative pet healthcare. Designed to combat fleas, ticks, and some worms, it's a multi-pronged approach to parasite prevention. However, it's essential to understand that while NexGard Spectra covers various bases, it's not all-encompassing.
The chewable medication primarily targets adult fleas, several tick species, and a range of common worms like heartworms, hookworms, and roundworms. Nevertheless, its protection umbrella does have some holes.
The Worms That Wriggle Through
While effective against specific types of worms, NexGard Spectra does not protect against all intestinal worms that may affect your pet. For instance, it lacks efficacy against killing already present tapeworms. To manage existing tapeworm infestations, a separate treatment would be required.
Tapeworms can be particularly problematic for pets that hunt or are prone to ingesting fleas. However, if you are concerned with protecting against tapeworms, NexGard Spectra has shown to be effective at preventing tapeworm flea infestation for a full month.
The Tick Box: Partially Checked
Yes, NexGard Spectra does a good job of knocking out a variety of tick species such as American Dog Ticks, Lone Star Ticks, and Backlogged Ticks among others with its active ingredient Afoxolaner. However, it does not offer full-spectrum protection against all ticks. Some species of ticks are resilient to the active ingredients in NexGard Spectra, requiring additional treatments for complete protection.
Your geographic location plays a significant role in the types of ticks you may encounter, making it crucial to consult with a local vet to determine the specific risks in your area.
Fungus Among Us: Not a Fungal Solution
A common misconception is that NexGard Spectra can help treat fungal infections. It cannot. Fungal issues like ringworm require a different line of treatment altogether.
So, while you're taking preventative steps for parasitic protection, don't overlook the necessity of combating potential fungal issues with the appropriate remedies.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Understanding what NexGard Spectra does not cover helps pet owners make informed decisions. Despite its limitations, it remains one of the most robust preventative treatments on the market. When used in conjunction with other treatments, NexGard Spectra can be part of a comprehensive approach to pet healthcare.
Always consult your vet to tailor a complete parasitic prevention plan, which could involve multiple products or treatments.
The Pawviva Advantage: A One-Stop Shop
At Pawviva, we're not just committed to providing you with reliable medications like NexGard Spectra; we aim to educate you for making informed choices. From supplements for your aging dog to probiotics for your sensitive cat, we've got your pet's health covered.
Draw upon our resources to fill in the gaps left by NexGard Spectra, ensuring a seamless and complete healthcare plan for your furry family members.
Final Thoughts: An Ounce of Prevention
NexGard Spectra is a powerful tool but may not be the only tool you need. Being aware of what it doesn't cover allows you to take a proactive approach to your pet's healthcare.