Trifexis vs Heartgard Plus

Choosing a parasite treatment is an important part of protecting your dog against irritating and potentially dangerous pests. Two of the best-known and most-loved options are Trifexis Chewable Tablets and Heartgard Plus. Each product offers its own unique set of advantages, which are described in detail below to help you choose the best option for your pet.

Trifexis Chewables for Dogs

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Heartgard Plus for Dogs

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What are the differences between Trifexis and Heartgard

Trifexis kills fleas, while Heartgard does not. Both are beef flavored chewable tablets. Heartgard can be prescribed to your pet dog as early as 6 weeks, while Trifexis is safe from an age of 8 weeks. With Trifexis, your pup needs to be at least 5 pounds.

Trifexis contains Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime. It begins to kill fleas in as little as 30 minutes, and it eliminates all fleas within 4 hours. Trifexis and Heartgard both eliminate parasitic infestations such as roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm, and they both prevent heartworm.

Both products are safe for dogs when used according to product directions. However, unlike Heartgard, Trifexis has not yet been evaluated for use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Trifexis is not available for cats, whereas Heartgard offers a feline option.

Trifexis and Heartgard both require a prescription from your veterinarian. Your vet should be able to answer any questions related to side effects, precautions, or special care for your dog.

Final Thoughts on Trifexis vs Heartgard

Trifexis is a more expensive option, but it does offer added flea protection. Certain pet owners may choose Heartgard to protect breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs.

If you still have questions on which oral flea and tick treatment is best for your furry friend, our pharmacists are standing by to offer pet parent consulting.

Feature Trifexis Heartgard Plus
Kills Fleas Yes No
Repels Fleas No No
Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae Yes No
Kills Ticks No No
Repels Ticks No No
Repels Mosquitoes No No
Prevents Heartworm Yes Yes
Other Parasites Roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm Hookworms and roundworms
Waterproof Yes since taken orally Yes
How Long to work Kills 100% of biting fleas in 4 hours Kills adults
Taste Beef Flavored Beef flavored
Active Ingredient Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime Ivermectin and Pyrantel Pamoate
RX Required Yes Yes
Application Type Chewable Tablet Chewable Tablet
Dosing 1 tablet per month 1 tablet per month
Age Puppies 8 weeks and older and weigh more than 5 lbs. Dogs 6 weeks and older
Manufacturer Elanco Animal Health Boehringer Ingelheim
Safety Not yet evaluated for use of in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Safe for pregnant or breeding females.

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