Comfortis vs Heartgard Plus

Pet parents are sure to find themselves looking for the best parasite treatment to keep their cats or dogs protected against potentially harmful parasite infestations. Two of the best-loved options include Comfortis Chewable Tablets and Heartgard Plus Chewables.At first glance, these products might appear pretty similar. However, there are plenty of differences that might help you decide between the two! To help you weigh your options, we have put together the following information and table.

How do Comfortis and Heartgard Plus differ?

To begin, let’s talk about the similarities between these two options. Firstly, they are both once-monthly,orally-administered treatments. They both require a prescription from a veterinarian, and they are both safe for use in puppies. Comfortis is safe for kittens and cats 14 weeks and older, while Heartgard Plus is made for puppies and dogs over the age of 6 weeks.

Now, let’s address the many differences between these products. Heartgard Plus is safe for use in breeding or pregnant female dogs, while Comfortis has not been evaluated for safe use in pregnant, breeding, or lactating dogs. Comfortis contains Spinosad as its active ingredient, and Heartgard Plus uses a combination of Pyrantel Pamoate and Ivermectin.

The most important distinction to make is the parasites controlled by each of these medications. Comfortis is formulated to kill fleas. Heartgard Plus is used as a heartworm preventative, and it also controls roundworms and hookworms.

Final thoughts on Comfortis vs. Heartgard Plus

As you can see, there are many differences between these two medications. Your veterinarian might recommend one or the other, or they might prescribe both treatments to give your pet broad-spectrum protection.

Be sure to tell your veterinarian if you have any concerns or questions about administering one or both of these products. Your vet will make the determination if one or both of these treatments is best for your pet based on their lifestyle, needs, and medical history. If you have any additional questions about your pet’s medications, give the Allivet pharmacists a call! They are available to consult with pet parents about all the fine products carried by Allivet.

Feature Comfortis 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 Begins to kills fleas in 30 minutes N/A
Taste Beef flavored Beef flavored
Active Ingredient Spinosad Ivermectin and Pyrantel Pamoate
RX Required Yes Yes
Application Type Chewable Tablet Chewable Tablet
Dosing 1 tablet per month 1 tablet per month
Age Dogs and cats 14 weeks and older Dogs 6 weeks and older
Manufacturer Elanco Animal Health Boehringer Ingelheim
Safety Not evaluated for safe use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. Safe for pregnant or breeding females.