NexGard vs. Bravecto: Which Flea Treatment Is Best?
When it comes to protecting your pet from fleas and ticks, choosing the right treatment is essential for their comfort and their long-term health. Two of the most popular and trusted options on the market today are NexGard and Bravecto, both prescription oral medications designed to provide effective, fast-acting relief. But how do you decide which one is right for your furry friend? In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between NexGard and Bravecto, comparing their ingredients, duration, safety.
What Are NexGard and Bravecto?
NexGard and Bravecto are both prescription oral flea and tick treatments that help protect dogs (and in some formulations, cats) from harmful parasites. These chewable medications are convenient alternatives to topical treatments and collars, offering pet owners an easier, mess-free way to maintain their pet’s protection.
NexGard is a monthly chewable tablet containing the active ingredient afoxolaner, which starts killing fleas within 4 hours and ticks within 8 hours of administration.
Bravecto is a flavored chew that provides extended protection thanks to its active ingredient, fluralaner, which begins working within 2 hours and offers long-lasting defense.
Both treatments work by disrupting the nervous system of fleas and ticks, leading to their elimination before they can bite or transmit disease. While both are effective, they differ in how long they last and how often they need to be administered.
How Long Does Each Treatment Last?
One of the key differences between NexGard and Bravecto is duration.
NexGard must be given once every month to maintain consistent protection. This makes it easy to pair with other monthly routines like heartworm preventatives.
Bravecto provides protection for up to 12 weeks (approximately 3 months) with a single dose. Some pet parents appreciate the longer-lasting coverage, especially if they tend to forget monthly dosing.
If you prefer a more hands-off approach, Bravecto’s extended duration may offer added convenience. However, NexGard's monthly dosing can make it easier to remember and integrate into a regular schedule.
Which Protects Better Against Fleas and Ticks?
Both products are highly effective at killing fleas and ticks, but there are some nuanced differences in protection:
NexGard offers strong defense against fleas, American dog ticks, black-legged ticks, and lone star ticks.
Bravecto protects against fleas, black-legged ticks, American dog ticks, and brown dog ticks, and in some regions, it’s also approved to kill lone star ticks (especially in dogs).
If your region has a high prevalence of certain tick species, your veterinarian may recommend one product over the other. Always consider your pet’s lifestyle, risk of exposure, and any seasonal patterns of flea and tick activity when choosing a treatment.
Safety and Side Effects: What Pet Owners Should Know
Both NexGard and Bravecto are FDA-approved and considered safe when used as directed. However, like all medications, they may carry the risk of side effects:
- Common side effects for NexGard may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and itching.
- Bravecto can occasionally cause vomiting, decreased appetite, diarrhea, or lethargy.
Neither product is recommended for pets with a history of seizures or neurological disorders without first consulting your veterinarian. It's important to monitor your pet after administering any new medication and to discuss any concerns with your vet right away.
Both NexGard and Bravecto provide trusted flea and tick protection. Your choice depends on preference for monthly or longer-lasting dosing. Talk to your vet to decide what’s best for your pet. For safe, convenient ordering, explore both options at PetPawsRx.com, your partner in pet health.