Interceptor Plus vs Sentinel

Life is all about trying to make good decisions, and pet parenthood is no exception. Choosing the best parasite and heartworm prevention for your dog is an essential part of keeping your pup healthy and happy. Two of the top picks for parasite protection are Interceptor Plus and Sentinel. These products each have a number of unique features and advantages that set them apart from one another. Below, we have outlined those differences to help you make a great decision for your beloved canine family member.

How do Interceptor Plus and Sentinel differ?

First, we’ll discuss how the similarities that these two treatments share. Because they both contain Milbemycin Oxime, they offer a few of the same advantages. Chief among these similarities is that they both protect against heartworms, hookworms, whipworms, and roundworms. They are both once-monthly, prescription-only, chewable tablets. Interceptor Plus offers a chicken flavor, and Sentinel is a beef-flavored tablet.

Both products are safe for use in puppies. Interceptor Plus can be safely administered to puppies from an age of 6 weeks weighing at least 2 pounds, while Sentinel is safe for puppies over 4 weeks of age. Finally, both products are safe for use in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs.

Now, let’s talk about the differences between these two treatment options. Interceptor Plus contains a second active ingredient called Praziquantel. This ingredient delivers effective protection against tapeworm infections. Conversely, Sentinel contains Lufenuron as its second active ingredient. This ingredient works to break the flea life cycle by inhibiting the development of flea eggs and larvae.

If you’re searching for a heartworm preventative for your cat, be sure to check out Interceptor for Dogs and Cats. Interceptor Plus and Sentinel are formulated only for use in dogs.

How can I make a choice between Interceptor Plus and Sentinel?

As you can see, each of these incredible products offers a number of impressive advantages. However, you’ll probably want to have a decision in mind when you make an appointment with your dog’s veterinarian. Your choice might come down to your puppy’s age. If you plan to treat a puppy between 4 and 6 weeks old, Sentinel is the safe option. If you wish to protect your pet against tapeworms, you might opt for Interceptor Plus. If fleas are more concerning for you and your dog, Sentinel may be the best choice.

Your veterinarian can help you decide between these parasite preventatives and answer any questions you may still have. However, you might find yourself with an unexpected concern or question after you get your dog’s prescription. That’s where the Allivet pharmacists come in! They are standing by to consult with pet parents, and they are knowledgeable on each and every Allivet product.

Feature Interceptor Plus Sentinel
Kills Fleas No No
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae No Stops development
Kills Ticks No No
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm Yes Yes
Other Parasites Hookworms, Roundworms, Tapeworms and Whipworms Roundworms, Whipworms, and Hookworms
Waterproof Yes since taken orally Yes
How Long to work N/A Breaks cycle of fleas and eggs. Does not kill existing flea infestation.
Taste Chicken flavor Savory Beef
Active Ingredient Milbemycin Oxime and Praziquantel Milbemycin Oxime and Lufenuron
RX Required Yes Yes
Application Type Chewable Tablet Chewable Tablet
Dosing 1 tablet per month 1 tablet per month
Age Dogs ages 6 weeks and 2lbs or more Dogs 4 weeks and older
Manufacturer Elanco Merck Animal Health
Safety Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use. Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use