Comfortis vs Frontline Plus

As a pet parent, you’re constantly searching for the best way to protect your dog or cat. That’s why parasite treatment is such an important task. With all the options available, it might be tough to choose which treatment is best for your pet. Two of the most popular products are Comfortis Chewable Tablets and Frontline Plus. Both of these options offer dependable and safe protection, but there are a number of differences to note. Keep reading for more information, and your decision might become a little easier!

What are the key differences between Comfortis and Frontline Plus?

While both of these products are highly effective and reliable, they are quite different from one another. The first obvious distinction between these treatments is that Comfortis is an oral flea medication, while Frontline Plus is a topical flea treatment. Comfortis contains Spinosad as the active ingredient, and Frontline Plus combines (S)-Methoprene and Fipronil. Both medications are administered monthly.

Comfortis is available only with a prescription from a veterinarian, while Frontline Plus is available over-the-counter. Comfortis is safe for use in cats and dogs ages 14 weeks and older, and Frontline Plus is formulated for puppies and dogs over 8 weeks of age. Frontline Plus is safe for use in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs, but Comfortis has not been proven safe for use in these dogs.

The differences in coverage are, arguably, the most notable. Comfortis solely targets fleas, working within 30 minutes to begin killing fleas and eradicating the infestation. Frontline Plus is also effective against fleas, but it also kills flea larvae and eggs. In addition to flea control, this product also treats lice and kills ticks.

Choosing between Comfortis and Frontline Plus

In some cases, your pet’s medical condition might make the decision for you. If your dog is pregnant, breeding, or lactating, you’ll want to opt for Frontline Plus. If not, you’re free to choose either option. If your primary concern is flea control, Comfortis is a great way to get a handle on an existing infestation. If your dog requires added protection against flea larvae, flea eggs, lice, and/or ticks, Frontline Plus is an excellent treatment option. If you’re looking for a way to gain rapid control of parasites without making a veterinary appointment (although you should still consult with your veterinarian before starting your pet on a new medication), Frontline Plus is a good option.

No matter which option you’re leaning toward, you should speak to your veterinarian to confirm that it’s the best choice for your pet. Once you get a prescription or the all-clear, you’re set to begin treatment! If you find yourself with any additional questions or concerns about oral flea and tick treatments, give the pharmacists at Allivet a call. They are available to consult with pet parents about all the medications and products Allivet carries.

Feature Comfortis Frontline Plus
Kills Fleas Yes Yes
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae No Yes
Kills Ticks No Yes
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm No No
Other Parasites No Treats lice
Waterproof Yes since taken orally Yes
How Long to work Begins to kills fleas in 30 minutes 12 hours to kill fleas and 48 hours to kill ticks
Taste Beef flavored N/A
Active Ingredient Spinosad Fipronil and (S)-Methoprene
RX Required Yes No
Application Type Chewable Tablet Topical
Dosing 1 tablet per month 1 topical application per month
Age Dogs and cats 14 weeks and older Dogs 8 weeks and older
Manufacturer Elanco Animal Health Boehringer Ingelheim
Safety Not evaluated for safe use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use.