Comfortis vs Capstar

Informed decisions guide you through life. Pet parenthood is no exception! Choosing a flea and/or tick treatment for your cat or dog is an important part of keeping them happy and healthy. Two of the top picks for parasite protection are Comfortis Chewable Tablets and Capstar Tablets 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 pet.

Comfortis Chewables for Dogs

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Capstar for Dogs

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What are the key differences between Comfortis and Capstar?

At a glance, these medications might seem similar because of a few main features. First of all, both Comfortis and Capstar are oral flea treatments. They both come in the form of a convenient, chewable tablet. Each of these medications work rapidly (Comfortis starts killing fleas within 30 minutes, and Capstar kills 90% of fleas within 4 hours).

One difference between these treatment options is that Comfortis is safe for use in cats and dogs ages 14 weeks and up, while Capstar is made for dogs and cats at least 4 weeks old weighing 2 pounds or more. Comfortis has not been proven safe for use in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs, but Capstar is safe for these dogs.

Capstar is available without a prescription, while Comfortis is available only with a prescription from a veterinarian. Comfortis contains the active ingredient of Spinosad, and Capstar uses Nitenpyram. Finally, Capstar is safe to administer as frequently as once daily, and Comfortis is a once-monthly treatment.

Closing thoughts on Comfortis vs. Capstar

Some of the first considerations to weigh are the age of your pet, the type of pet you have, and whether or not your pet is lactating, breeding, or pregnant. If your dog is pregnant, lactating, or breeding, you’ll want to choose a safe option like Capstar. If you need to treat a cat, Comfortis a safe choice for both dogs and cats. Capstar also offers a separate product made specifically for use in cats. If you have a puppy between the ages of 4 weeks (weighing at least 2 pounds) and 14 weeks, Capstar is an ideal solution.

Another factor to consider when choosing between these two effective products is whether or not your pet requires ongoing protection. If you just want to find an as-needed treatment option, Capstar is a great way to eradicate flea infestations safely and quickly without the need for ongoing administration. However, if your pet is susceptible to re-infestation, Comfortis might be a great way to maintain protection.

When choosing a new medication for your pet, it’s important to consult your veterinarian. Your vet has all the information and knowledge you need to make the best choice for your pet, and they can also answer all your questions and address any concerns you might have. If you find yourself with any other questions, take advantage of pet parent consultations by reaching out to the pharmacists at Allivet!

Feature Comfortis Capstar
Kills Fleas Yes Yes
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 No
Other Parasites No No
Waterproof Yes since taken orally Yes since taken orally
How Long to work Begins to kills fleas in 30 minutes Kills 90% of fleas in 4 hours
Taste Beef flavored No flavor
Active Ingredient Spinosad Nitenpyram
RX Required Yes No
Application Type Chewable Tablet Chewable Tablet
Dosing 1 tablet per month Safe for as often as once per day
Age Dogs and cats 14 weeks and older Dogs 4 weeks and older that weigh at least 2 pounds
Manufacturer Elanco Animal Health Elanco
Safety Not evaluated for safe use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use.

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