Advantage Multi vs Advantage II

Informed decisions can help guide you through life. Pet parenthood is no exception! Choosing a flea treatment for your pet is an essential part of keeping them healthy and happy. Two of the top picks for parasite protection are Advantage Multi and Advantage II Both of these products have their own distinct advantages and features. Below, we’ve outlined some of those differences to help you make the best decision for your dog.

Advantage Multi for Dogs

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Advantage II for Dogs

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What makes Advantage Multi different from Advantage II?

Both of these effective topical treatments are made by Bayer, a trusted name in both human and veterinary pharmaceuticals. They are similar to one another, but they do have some distinct differences that might help you decide which one is best for your dog.

Let’s begin by discussing the similarities between these two products. They are each safe for use in puppies ages 7 weeks and up. (Advantage Multi should only be used on puppies and dogs weighing over 3 pounds.) You should not use either product on a pregnant, lactating, or breeding dog unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian. Each product begins killing fleas within 12 hours, and they are both effective against fleas.

While both products contain the active ingredient Imidacloprid, they each contain one other unique ingredient, which is what causes their modes of action to differ. Advantage Multi contains Moxidectin. This ingredient prevents heartworms, hookworms, roundworms, and ear mites. Advantage II uses Pyriproxyfen to kill flea larvae and eggs, prevent heartworms, and treat lice. Advantage Multi requires a prescription, while Advantage II is an over-the-counter product.

Choosing between Advantage Multi and Advantage II

As you can see, you truly can’t go wrong with either of these trustworthy, effective treatment options. However, a couple of factors might help you choose between them. If you’d prefer an over-the-counter treatment, you’ll probably want to choose Advantage II. If you would feel more comfortable with a prescription medication, Advantage Multi is a great choice.

If you don’t have a preference between prescription or over-the-counter treatments, the choice will simply come down to which parasites your dog is most susceptible to. If you find reinfesting fleas to be an issue, you might choose Advantage II for its ability to kill fleas in the egg and larvae stages, breaking the flea life cycle. If your dog is prone to lice, Advantage II might be an ideal option as well. However, if your dog could benefit from protection against intestinal parasites like roundworms and hookworms, or if your dog is susceptible to ear mites, you might decide to go with Advantage Multi.

Your veterinarian is a great resource. They can help you decide between these products, discuss pros and cons, and make the right decision for your individual dog. If you find yourself with any residual questions or concerns, simply reach out to the incredible Allivet pharmacists for a pet parent consultation!

Feature Advantage Multi Advantage II
Kills Fleas Yes 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 Ear mites, roundworms, and hookworms Treats lice
Waterproof Yes Yes
How Long to work Begins to kill fleas within 12 hours Begins to kill fleas within 12 hours
Taste N/A N/A
Active Ingredient Imidacloprid and Moxidectin Imidacloprid and Pyriproxyfen
RX Required Yes No
Application Type Topical Topical
Dosing 1 application per month 1 application per month
Age Dogs 7 weeks and older that weight at least 3 pounds Dogs 7 weeks and older
Manufacturer Bayer Animal Health Bayer Animal Health
Safety Speak to your vet about risks associated with breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs Speak to your vet about risks associated with breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs

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