Simparica vs Capstar

Fleas and ticks can be a nuisance. They can also cause serious health issues. Pet parents often find themselves overwhelmed with the options for flea and tick treatment. Two of the top picks are Simparica Chewable Tablets and Capstar Flea Tablets. These products have a lot in common, but they also have several differences. See below for a table and more information to help you decide between these effective treatments!

Simparica

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Capstar Flea Treatment

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How do Simparica and Capstar differ?

At a glance, you might think these two medications are pretty similar, because they are both oral flea treatments. However, there are some key differences to be aware of before you make your decision. Arguably, the biggest difference between these products is that Simparica is formulated for dogs only; but Capstar is available for cats as well.

Both of these high-quality treatments are effective in killing fleas. However, Simparica also kills ticks. Simparica kills fleas within 3 hours and ticks within 8. Capstar kills 90% of fleas within 4 hours; 98% within 6 hours; and 100% within 24 hours. A primary feature to consider when choosing between these medications is the age of your puppy or dog. Capstar can be administered to puppies from an age of 4 weeks, while Simparica is only safe for puppies 6 months of age or older. Conversely, Capstar is proven safe for use in lactating, pregnant, or breeding dogs; while Simparica is not approved for use in these dogs.

Simparica contains an active ingredient of Saroloner, while Capstar uses Nitenpyram. The final major difference between these two products is that Capstar is administered on an as-needed basis and can be given as frequently as once daily. Simparica is administered monthly.

Capstar is available without a prescription, while Simparica requires a prescription from your veterinarian.

Key takeaways on Simparica vs. Capstar

As you have probably gathered via the information above, there are several factors that distinguish Capstar from Simparica. If you wish to gain rapid control of an active flea infestation, you might choose Capstar; while if you are searching for a long-term flea and tick preventative, you may opt for Simparica.

If your puppy is under 6 months old, Capstar is the best choice; and if your dog is over the age of 6 months, you can choose either product. If you plan to treat a pregnant, breeding, or lactating dog, Capstar could be a great option; and if your dog is not pregnant, breeding, or lactating, you can choose Simparica. If you want to treat your cat for fleas, Capstar is the way to go.

Both of these effective treatments are great, high-quality, and trustworthy options. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian and address any questions or concerns you have about treating your pet for fleas and/or ticks. The pharmacists at Allivet are also available for pet parent counseling if you have any further questions!

Feature Simparica Capstar
Kills Fleas Yes Yes
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae No No
Kills Ticks Yes 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 Kills fleas within 3 hours and ticks within 8 hours. Kills 90% of fleas in 4 hours
Taste Liver No flavor
Active Ingredient Sarolaner 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 6 months and older weighing at least 2.8 pounds Dogs 4 weeks and older that weigh at least 2 pounds
Manufacturer Zoetis Elanco
Safety Not approved for breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs. Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use.

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