Comfortis vs Sentinel

Pet parents can all agree that it’s essential to keep your dog or cat healthy and happy. That’s why it is so important to pick the right flea and/or tick treatment for your specific pet. Two of the best products available are Comfortis Chewable Tablets and Sentinel. It might be hard to weigh the options, but we’ve put together a comparison table and more information to arm you with the knowledge you need to make a great choice for your cat or dog.

What are the differences between Comfortis and Sentinel?

it might appear that these two parasite treatments are pretty similar. After all, they are both once-monthly, oral medications, and they are both available only with a prescription. They are also both safe for use in puppies - Comfortis from an age of 14 weeks, and Sentinel 4 weeks and up. However, that’s where many of the similarities end.

The parasites controlled by each treatment vary. Comfortis is formulated to kill fleas. Sentinel controls roundworms, whipworms, and hookworms. It also puts a stop to developing flea larvae and eggs. Finally, it offers heartworm prevention. Comfortis starts killing fleas within 30 minutes, while Sentinel is not formulated to control existing infestations.

Comfortis contains Spinosad, and Sentinel contains Lufenuron and Milbemycin Oxime. Sentinel is safe for use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs, while Comfortis has not been proven safe for use in such dogs.

Key takeaways on Comfortis vs. Sentinel

As you’ve read above, the features and benefits of these two treatments are very different. Therefore, weighing your dog’s needs is a great way to make a choice between these medications. Your veterinarian might even prescribe both treatments for broad-spectrum parasite protection.

Once you’ve decided whether or not one or both of these medications is a good choice for your dog, it’s time to make an appointment with your veterinarian. Your vet will assess your pet’s health and answer any questions you might have. If you find yourself with any lingering concerns or questions, just reach out to the Allivet pharmacists for a pet parent consultation!

Feature Comfortis Sentinel
Kills Fleas Yes No
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae No Stops development
Kills Ticks No No
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm No Yes
Other Parasites No Roundworms, Whipworms, and Hookworms
Waterproof Yes since taken orally Yes since taken orally
How Long to work Begins to kills fleas in 30 minutes Breaks cycle of fleas and eggs. Does not kill existing flea infestation.
Taste Beef flavored Savory Beef
Active Ingredient Spinosad Milbemycin Oxime and Lufenuron
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 4 weeks and older
Manufacturer Elanco Animal Health Virbac
Safety Not evaluated for safe use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use.