Trifexis vs Seresto
Your family - both fur and human - deserve the very best treatment. With that in mind, we have created a comparison chart between two popular parasite treatment options, Trifexis Chewable Tablets and Seresto. Armed with this and the information below, we believe you'll be able to make an informed choice to protect your pet.
What are the differences between Trifexis and Seresto
The most notable difference between these products is that Seresto is a collar, designed to fit comfortably around your pet’s neck. Trifexis is a chewable tablet given to your pet. Seresto enables you to only change out the collar as infrequently as every 8 months, while Trifexis is given once a month. Puppies must be at least 7 weeks old to apply the collar, while using Trifexis requires them to be at least 8 weeks and 5 pounds.
Trifexis contains Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime, and it begins to kill fleas in as little as 30 minutes. It eliminates all fleas within 4 hours. Seresto's collar contains the active ingredients of Flumethrin and Imidacloprid, which are slowly released in low concentrations to kill fleas within 24 hours and ticks within 6 hours. Trifexis has the added benefit of killing off intestinal parasites such as hookworm, and roundworm, and it prevents heartworm. Meanwhile, the Seresto collar prevents fleas and ticks from latching on. This gives your pet a shield against pesky critters. Seresto also treats chewing lice and sarcoptic mange.
Both products are safe for use in dogs when used according to label directions. However, unlike Seresto, Trifexis has not yet been evaluated for use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Nexgard is not available for cats. However, Seresto makes a collar for cats, and its benefits are comparable to the canine counterpart.
Trifexis is only available with a prescription from your veterinarian. Seresto is available over-the-counter. 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 Seresto
The cost associated with both products is comparable to other prescription and over-the-counter medications. Your veterinarian might recommend that you administer both to your pet for broad-spectrum protection. Some pet owners and their veterinarians may decide to switch over to Seresto to protect breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs.
For protection against internal parasites, Trifexis is a great choice. If sarcoptic mange, chewing lice, and ticks are the primary concern, Seresto might be the best option.
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 | Seresto |
|---|---|---|
| Kills Fleas | Yes | Yes |
| Repels Fleas | No | Yes |
| Kills Flea Eggs and Larvae | Yes | Yes |
| Kills Ticks | No | Yes |
| Repels Ticks | No | Yes |
| Repels Mosquitoes | No | No |
| Prevents Heartworm | Yes | No |
| Other Parasites | Roundworm, hookworm, and whipworm | Chewing Lice and Sarcoptic Mange |
| Waterproof | Yes since taken orally | Yes |
| How Long to work | Kills 100% of biting fleas in 4 hours | Kills fleas in 24 hours and repels or kills re-infesting ticks within 6 hours |
| Taste | Beef Flavored | N/A |
| Active Ingredient | Spinosad and Milbemycin Oxime | Flumethrin and Imidacloprid |
| RX Required | Yes | No |
| Application Type | Chewable Tablet | Collar |
| Dosing | 1 tablet per month | 1 collar lasts up to 8 months |
| Age | Puppies 8 weeks and older and weigh more than 5 lbs. | Dogs 7 weeks and older |
| Manufacturer | Elanco Animal Health | Bayer Animal Health |
| Safety | Not yet evaluated for use of in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. | Breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs may use. |