Interceptor vs Trifexis
Cat lovers and dog lovers might disagree on which pet is best, but they can all agree on one thing - your pet deserves to live a healthy and happy life. That's why picking the best parasite treatment is such an important task. A couple of the best-loved options are Interceptor and Trifexis. While both of these medications will protect your pet against dangerous and irritating parasites, they are also quite different from one another. We’ve put together a comparison table and some more information to help you with your important decision.
How are Interceptor and Trifexis different from one another?
First, let’s discuss the differences between these two incredible products. One key difference is that Interceptor has been proven safe for use in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs, while Trifexis has not been evaluated for safety in these dogs. Interceptor is safe for puppies weighing at least 2 pounds with a minimum age of 4 weeks, and Trifexis should only be given to puppies weighing at least 5 pounds with a minimum age of 8 weeks.
While both of these products contain the active ingredient Milbemycin Oxime, Trifexis also contains Spinosad. This ingredient offers added protection against fleas. It works to kill 100% of biting adult fleas within just 4 hours of administration.
It’s clear that there are many differences between these two medications. However, they are also similar in a number of ways. Chief among these similarities is that both products require a prescription from your veterinarian. They are both administered monthly, and they both come in a convenient, chewable, beef-flavored tablet. They also both protect against heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.
Final thoughts on Interceptor vs. Trifexis
One important factor to consider when choosing between these formulas is whether or not your pet is already taking a different flea and tick preventative. If your pet is already protected against these dangerous parasites, you may opt to administer Interceptor to protect against heartworms, whipworms, hookworms, and roundworms because Trifexis also protects against fleas. However, if your pet is not taking a flea treatment and fleas are a concern for you and your pet, Trifexis may be your best option.
If you will be treating a cat, a puppy between 2 and 5 pounds, a puppy between 4 and 8 weeks old, or a pregnant, lactating, or breeding dog, Interceptor is the safest option for your pet.
Now that you’ve narrowed your search down to Interceptor or Trifexis, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. Be sure to come prepared with all the concerns and questions you can think of. Your vet will be able to answer all of your questions and help you choose between these products. If you think of any other questions, simply reach out to the Allivet pharmacists for a pet parent consultation over the phone!
| Feature | Interceptor | Trifexis |
|---|---|---|
| Kills Fleas | No | Yes |
| Repels Fleas | No | No |
| Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae | No | Yes |
| Kills Ticks | No | No |
| Repels Ticks | No | No |
| Repels Mosquitoes | No | No |
| Prevents Heartworm | Yes | Yes |
| Other Parasites | Hookworms, Whipworms, Roundworms | Roundworm, Hookworm, and Whipworm |
| Waterproof | Yes since taken orally | Yes |
| How Long to work | N/A | Kills 100% of biting fleas in 4 hours |
| Taste | Beef Flavored | Beef Flavored |
| Active Ingredient | Milbemycin Oxime | Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime |
| RX Required | Yes | Yes |
| Application Type | Chewable Tablet | Chewable Tablet |
| Dosing | 1 tablet per month | 1 tablet per month |
| Age | 4 weeks or older and weighing 2 lbs. or greater | Puppies 8 weeks and older and weigh more than 5 lbs. |
| Manufacturer | Elanco | Elanco Animal Health |
| Safety | Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use. | Not yet evaluated for use of in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. |