Both Frontline Plus and NexGard are considered safe and effective for flea and tick control when used as directed, but they have different safety profiles. Frontline is a topical, lower-risk option for sensitive pets, while NexGard is an oral chew that offers faster, more effective protection but may have more, albeit generally minor, side effects like vomiting and, in rare cases, neurologic issues.

Is NexGard safer than Frontline?

Both products are safe for dogs when following directions and Nexgard has been approved by the FDA to treat and prevent flea and tick infestations. However, unlike Frontline Plus, Nexgard has not yet been evaluated for use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating dogs. Nexgard chewable tablets are not available for cats.

Why not give your dog NexGard?

While generally considered safe and effective by the FDA, NexGard (afoxolaner) can cause side effects, most commonly vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and itching, with rarer but serious neurological issues like tremors or seizures reported, especially in dogs with pre-existing neurological conditions, prompting caution in those pets and owners should monitor for adverse reactions like muscle tremors, loss of balance, or seizures, as noted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). 

Is Frontline actually safe for dogs?

Frontline is indeed a very safe product, with minimal risk of toxicity to dogs, cats, or humans. It is likely one of the safest options available!

What is the safest flea and tick medication for dogs?

There are several oral prescription flea and tick medications that are safe for dogs. These preventatives come in pill and chew forms. Your vet can help you find the right one for your pup's age. Credelio Quattro is an excellent choice for flea and tick protection.

How Frontline Works

Does Frontline go into dogs' bloodstream?

This medication is absorbed into the dog's sebaceous glands, not into the bloodstream. Can I use Frontline Gold for dogs on cats or rabbits? Never use this medication on any animal that isn't a canine. Frontline Gold for dogs contains ingredients that can cause deadly reactions in felines and rabbits.

What are the disadvantages of NexGard?

NexGard® and NexGard® PLUS Possible Side Effects in Dogs

Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite) Dry or itchy skin. Low energy (lethargy) Allergic reactions: hives or facial swelling.

Can I skip NexGard in the winter?

The answer is yes, flea and tick preventatives need to be applied year-round in order to keep your pets safe. Read on to learn more about how fleas and ticks operate, the dangers they can harbor, and how best to protect your dogs and cats.

Does my dog really need flea and tick medication?

“Ticks and mosquitoes are dangerous to the health of people as well as pets,” says veterinarian Dr. Jill Lopez. “For that reason, flea and tick protection is essential for all dogs and cats that live with you.”

Which flea treatment to avoid?

You should avoid flea treatments with dangerous pesticides like pyrethrins/pyrethroids (especially for cats), older flea collars with TCVP or propoxur, certain isoxazoline drugs (like Bravecto, NexGard, Credelio) if your pet has neurological issues, and toxic essential oils like tea tree oil, while also being wary of fake products and always using species-appropriate formulas. Always read labels and consult your vet to prevent toxicity, as some powerful treatments carry higher risks for certain pets. 

Is Frontline for dogs being discontinued?

As many of you know, Frontline Gold was discontinued last year. However, Frontline Plus is still on the market and available for purchase on our online webstore for those of you who prefer topical applications! We still have some doses of Frontline Gold for Dogs in clinic available for purchase.

Is there anything better than Frontline for dogs?

The best product depends on your dog's specific needs and the parasite populations in your geographic location. K9 Advantix II has a broader spectrum of activity than Frontline Plus, as it kills and prevents ticks, fleas, chewing lice, mosquitoes, and biting flies.

What is the most vet recommended flea treatment for dogs?

Popular, vet-recommended flea and tick medicines for dogs include chewables Simparica and Credelio, plus Bravecto topical, all of which are prescription medicines. Your vet can help you choose the best flea and tick medication for your individual dog based on their specific needs.

What is better than NexGard for dogs?

Comfortis uses Spinosad and begins to kill fleas within 30 minutes, Comfortis is intended to prevent fleas from being able to lay eggs before they die causing prolonged irritation to your loved one. Nexgard is slower acting yet is the only FDA approved option for preventing infections that cause Lyme disease.

Who should not take NexGard?

What dogs should not take NexGard? Dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders, or those who are breeding, pregnant, or lactating, should not take NexGard without veterinary supervision.

When should I not give my dog NexGard?

Use NexGard PLUS with caution in dogs with a history of seizures or neurologic disorders. For more information, click here for full prescribing information. Following the use of HEARTGARD Plus (ivermectin/pyrantel) in dogs, digestive and neurologic side effects and itching have been reported.

Do indoor dogs need flea prevention?

Year-round prevention is also important because fleas can thrive indoors, where they remain protected from the cold, outdoor temperatures.

Is it okay to switch flea medicine?

It's essential that the old medication has worn off before administering a new type of flea medicine — this is the case even if the treatment is no longer working for your pet. Dosing your dog with a new medication when their old medication hasn't worn off could cause your pet to have an accidental overdose.

Which is safer for dogs, NexGard or Frontline?

Considering the composition, Frontline Plus and Nexgard, both are safe and reliable treatments. Either of these treatments is equally effective in protecting dogs from fleas and infestations caused by fleas including flea allergy dermatitis. When it comes to controlling ticks, Nexgard offers more.

Is NexGard safe every month?

NexGard chews have been shown to provide effective protection for a complete month: it is not required or recommended to treat more frequently than this. To ensure your dog is always protected, aim to dose your dog on the same day every month.

What are the side effects of Frontline?

Side effects with any of the topical Frontline® products are uncommon but may include itching, redness, or irritation at the site of application. If any signs of skin irritation occur, bathe your pet with mild soap and large amounts of water. Rarely, additional side effects may include: Drooling.

Is FRONTLINE PLUS toxic for dogs?

True toxicity from ingestion of Frontline Plus is rare in dogs. But if it happens, more serious signs, in addition to the ones listed above, may include: Tremors. Seizures.

What kills ticks on dogs instantly?

Rubbing alcohol: Rubbing alcohol can kill ticks for good. Once you remove the tick, put it in a cup of alcohol and cover it up with a lid to prevent the tick from escaping. Water and mow your lawn: Ticks flourish in warm, dry environments, which is why they can be found in thick grasses and wooded regions.

Can I shower my dog after Frontline?

Ensure your pet is totally dry before applying FRONTLINE PLUS or FRONTLINE SPRAY products. Do not bath or shampoo your dog for at least 48 hours after application of FRONTLINE PLUS or FRONTLINE SPRAY. Cats may be bathed from 24 hours after application of FRONTLINE PLUS or 48 hours after application of FRONTLINE SPRAY.

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