Capstar vs Heartgard

An essential part of keeping your dog happy and healthy is controlling irritating and potentially harmful parasites. A couple of the top options for protecting your dog from pests are Capstar and Heartgard Plus. Each of these parasite treatments works in a different way to combat pests, and they each offer a unique set of advantages that might clarify the best option for your dog. See below for information and a table comparing these two effective products.

What are the key differences between Capstar and Heartgard Plus?

One big difference between these chewable oral treatments is that Capstar is administered on an as-needed basis to eradicate an existing flea infestation. It is a great product for pet parents to keep on-hand to eliminate fleas as the need arises. Capstar is available over-the-counter and can be administered as often as daily. Heartgard Plus contains Pyrantel Pamoate and Ivermectin. It is a prescription-only medication administered monthly as a heartworm preventative, but it offers added protection against roundworms and hookworms.

Both products are safe for use in breeding or pregnant female dogs, and Capstar is also safe for lactating dogs. Heartgard Plus can be given to dogs as young as 6 weeks, while Capstar is safe for use in puppies over the age of 4 weeks weighing at least 2 pounds.

Takeaways on Capstar vs. Heartgard Plus

If you’re on the hunt for an effective way to provide your cat or dog with prompt relief of a flea infestation, Capstar is a great option. If you’re looking for ongoing protection against heartworms and intestinal parasites, you might choose Heartgard Plus. Because these products serve two different purposes, your veterinarian might recommend that you administer both to your pet to provide a broader range of protection.

Talk to your veterinarian about these effective treatment options. Your vet will be happy to address any concerns and answer all your questions. Together with your veterinarian, you can make the best decision for your pet’s care. If you think of any additional questions, contact the Allivet pharmacists for a pet parent consultation!

Capstar for Dogs

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Heartgard Plus

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Feature Capstar Heartgard Plus
Kills Fleas Yes No
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae No No
Kills Ticks No No
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm No Yes
Other Parasites No Hookworms and roundworms
Waterproof Yes since taken orally Yes
How Long to work Kills 90% of fleas in 4 hours N/A
Taste No flavor Beef flavored
Active Ingredient Nitenpyram Ivermectin and Pyrantel Pamoate
RX Required No Yes
Application Type Chewable Tablet Chewable Tablet
Dosing Safe for as often as once per day 1 tablet per month
Age Dogs 4 weeks and older that weigh at least 2 pounds Dogs 6 weeks and older
Manufacturer Elanco Boehringer Ingelheim
Safety Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use. Safe for pregnant or breeding females.

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