Is NexGard a Dewormer for Dogs? Understanding Its Capabilities
NexGard is primarily a flea and tick preventative for dogs, and while effective against these parasites, it is not a comprehensive dewormer. It targets specific internal parasites but doesn’t cover the full spectrum of worms that can affect canines.
Unpacking NexGard: What It Does and Doesn’t Do
NexGard is a popular oral medication for dogs, known for its effectiveness in preventing flea and tick infestations. However, it’s crucial to understand its limitations regarding internal parasites. Knowing what NexGard covers and what it doesn’t will help ensure your dog receives the appropriate preventative care.
The Active Ingredient: Afoxolaner
The primary active ingredient in NexGard is afoxolaner. Afoxolaner works by interfering with the nervous system of fleas and ticks, causing paralysis and death. This mechanism makes it highly effective at eliminating these external parasites.
Internal Parasite Coverage: What Worms Does NexGard Treat?
NexGard offers limited deworming capabilities. Specifically, it’s effective against:
- Hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum, Ancylostoma braziliense, Uncinaria stenocephala): Common intestinal parasites that can cause anemia and other health issues.
- Roundworms (Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina): Another prevalent intestinal parasite, particularly in puppies.
However, NexGard does not treat all types of worms that can infect dogs. For example:
- Tapeworms: NexGard isn’t effective against tapeworms, which are often transmitted through fleas or by consuming infected prey.
- Whipworms: Another type of intestinal parasite that NexGard does not target.
- Heartworms: NexGard is also not a heartworm preventative.
The Importance of Broad-Spectrum Deworming
Because NexGard doesn’t cover all common intestinal parasites, it’s essential to consider a broad-spectrum dewormer as part of your dog’s preventative care. A comprehensive deworming strategy will protect your dog from a wider range of parasitic infections. This is important to consider when asking, Is NexGard a dewormer for dogs?.
How to Deworm Your Dog Effectively
Here’s how to effectively deworm your dog:
- Consult Your Veterinarian: The best first step is to consult with your veterinarian. They can perform fecal tests to identify specific parasites present in your dog’s system.
- Choose a Broad-Spectrum Dewormer: Select a dewormer that targets multiple types of worms, including tapeworms and whipworms, which are not covered by NexGard.
- Follow Dosage Instructions Carefully: Administer the dewormer according to your veterinarian’s instructions and the product label.
- Repeat Treatment as Needed: Depending on your dog’s risk factors and the type of dewormer used, repeat treatments may be necessary. Your vet will advise on the optimal schedule.
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Practice good hygiene by promptly cleaning up your dog’s feces to prevent the spread of parasites.
The Difference Between NexGard and Heartworm Preventatives
It’s crucial to distinguish between NexGard and heartworm preventatives. NexGard primarily targets fleas and ticks, with limited deworming capabilities. Heartworm preventatives, on the other hand, specifically protect against heartworm disease, which is transmitted through mosquito bites. Many heartworm preventatives also include broad-spectrum deworming capabilities. Some combination products, like NexGard Spectra, combine afoxolaner with milbemycin oxime, providing heartworm prevention and treatment for roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms.
NexGard Spectra: A Combination Product
NexGard Spectra is a variation of NexGard that combines afoxolaner with milbemycin oxime. Milbemycin oxime adds heartworm prevention and broadens the deworming spectrum to include whipworms. However, even NexGard Spectra may not cover all types of tapeworms. This product is a step closer to answering Is NexGard a dewormer for dogs? with a “yes” but is still not a complete deworming solution.
Choosing the Right Parasite Prevention for Your Dog
Selecting the appropriate parasite prevention strategy depends on several factors:
- Geographic Location: The prevalence of different parasites varies by region.
- Lifestyle: Outdoor dogs are generally at higher risk of parasite exposure than indoor dogs.
- Individual Needs: Your dog’s breed, age, and overall health can influence the best prevention plan.
Consult with your veterinarian to develop a tailored preventative care strategy that addresses your dog’s specific needs. This may involve using NexGard for flea and tick prevention in combination with a separate dewormer for comprehensive parasite control.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming NexGard is a Complete Dewormer: One of the biggest mistakes is assuming that NexGard provides comprehensive protection against all internal parasites.
- Ignoring Fecal Testing: Regular fecal exams are essential for identifying parasites and tailoring treatment accordingly.
- Overlooking Heartworm Prevention: Heartworm disease is a serious threat, so ensuring your dog is protected is crucial.
- Self-Treating Without Veterinary Guidance: Always consult with your veterinarian before starting any new medications or treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is NexGard safe for all dogs?
NexGard is generally safe for most dogs when used as directed. However, it should be used with caution in dogs with a history of seizures or neurological problems, as afoxolaner can potentially trigger neurological adverse reactions in susceptible individuals. Always consult with your veterinarian before administering NexGard, especially if your dog has any underlying health conditions.
How often should I deworm my dog if they are on NexGard?
The frequency of deworming depends on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors. For dogs on NexGard, which provides some deworming coverage, a typical recommendation is to administer a broad-spectrum dewormer every 3-6 months, or as advised by your veterinarian based on fecal testing results and your dog’s environment.
What are the side effects of NexGard?
Common side effects of NexGard include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and decreased appetite. These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. In rare cases, more serious side effects, such as seizures, have been reported. Contact your veterinarian if you observe any concerning signs after administering NexGard.
Can I use NexGard in combination with other medications?
Generally, NexGard can be safely used with other medications, but it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian before combining it with other drugs. This will help avoid potential drug interactions or adverse effects. Always inform your vet about all medications and supplements your dog is taking.
How long does it take for NexGard to kill fleas?
NexGard starts killing fleas within 30 minutes of administration and achieves 100% efficacy within 24 hours. This rapid action helps quickly relieve your dog’s discomfort and prevent flea infestations.
Does NexGard require a prescription?
Yes, NexGard is a prescription medication, meaning you’ll need a valid prescription from your veterinarian to obtain it. This is because your vet can assess your dog’s individual needs and ensure NexGard is the appropriate treatment.
What is the difference between NexGard and Frontline?
NexGard and Frontline are both flea and tick preventatives, but they differ in their active ingredients and administration methods. NexGard is an oral medication containing afoxolaner, while Frontline is a topical solution containing fipronil. NexGard is generally considered more effective against ticks, while both are effective against fleas.
Is there a natural alternative to NexGard?
While some natural remedies may offer flea and tick repellent properties, they are generally not as effective or reliable as prescription medications like NexGard. Relying solely on natural alternatives may leave your dog vulnerable to parasite infestations. Always consult your veterinarian for safe and effective parasite prevention options.
Can NexGard be used on cats?
No, NexGard is specifically formulated for dogs and should not be used on cats. The active ingredient, afoxolaner, can be toxic to cats. Use only products specifically labeled for cats to ensure their safety.
How do I know if my dog has worms if they are on NexGard?
Even if your dog is on NexGard, regular fecal exams are crucial for detecting worms. Symptoms of worms can include diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and a pot-bellied appearance. However, some dogs with worms may show no visible signs, making fecal testing even more important.
What if my dog vomits after taking NexGard?
If your dog vomits shortly after taking NexGard, contact your veterinarian. They may recommend redosing or suggest an alternative preventative. Do not administer another dose without consulting your vet.
Is NexGard Spectra better than regular NexGard?
Whether NexGard Spectra is “better” than regular NexGard depends on your dog’s individual needs. NexGard Spectra offers the added benefit of heartworm prevention and treatment of whipworms, in addition to the flea, tick, roundworm, and hookworm protection provided by regular NexGard. If your dog is at risk of heartworm disease and/or requires whipworm treatment, then NexGard Spectra may be a more comprehensive option.