Every pet parent wants their furry companion to be happy and healthy. However, if you notice your dog scratching frequently, fleas and ticks could be one possible reason, which can seriously affect your dog’s comfort and may lead to other skin problems. To deal with it, you might have scrolled through many flea and tick treatments for your dog. If you’ve narrowed your options down to Bravecto Topical and Frontline Plus, surely the dilemma of choosing oneof them for your dog can feel overwhelming. In this blog, we compare Bravecto Topical and Frontline Plus and discuss their similarities and differences in detail.
Read on to know more…
Overview of Bravecto Topical Solution
What is Bravecto Topical for dogs?
Bravecto Topical is a topical flea and tick treatment for dogs. It comes in a Twist’n’Use applicator designed for hassle-free topical administration. Although applied topically, Bravecto works systemically, and a single dose provides up to 12 weeks offlea and tick protection for dogs.
What is the active ingredient in Bravecto Topical, and how does it work?
Bravecto Topical for dogs contains one active ingredient, fluralaner,which acts against susceptible fleas and ticks. It affectsthe nervous system of parasites.According to the product label, this topical treats fleas and ticks for 12 weeks (lone star ticks for 8 weeks) and begins killing fleas 2 hours after administration.
Bravecto Topical is labeled for which parasites?
According to the product label, Bravecto Topical is indicated for the following uses:
- Killing of adult fleas
- Treatment and prevention of flea infestations
- Treatment and control of black-legged tick, American dog tick, and brown dog tick infestations for 12 weeks
- Treatment and control of Lone Star tick infestations for 8 weeks
How often is Bravecto Topical applied, and which dogs are eligible?
Bravecto topical should be administered topically as a single dose every 12 weeks, with an 8-week dosing interval for Lone Star tick control. The appropriate dose is based on the dog’s body weight. It is indicated for dogs and puppies 6 months of age and older that weigh at least 4.4 pounds.
Overview of Frontline Plus for Dogs
What is Frontline Plus for dogs?
Frontline Plus is a monthly topical flea and tick product for dogs. It is applied directly to the dog’s skin and is formulated to protect against fleas, ticks, and chewing lice. Its formula is labeled as waterproof when used according to the product directions.
What are the active ingredients in Frontline Plus, and how do they work?
Frontline Plus contains two active ingredients, namely fipronil and (S)-methoprene.
Once applied, Frontline Plus for dogs spreads from the single application over the dog’s skin surface through the natural oils and gets collected in the oil (sebaceous) glands, which act as a reservoir. This action allows it to protect the dog for 30 days. Fleas and ticks are killed through contact with the treated dog’s coat and skin. Once-a-month application helps provide continued protection.
Frontline Plus is labeled for which parasites?
According to the product label, Frontline Plus:
Fleas:
- Kills adult fleas, flea eggs, and flea larvae
- Prevents all flea stages (eggs, larvae, and pupae) from developing
- Stops existing infestations and prevents establishment of new infestations
- Kills fleas that may cause flea allergy dermatitis
Ticks:
- Kills all life stages of ticks (larva, nymph, and adult), including brown dog ticks, American dog ticks, Lone Star ticks, and deer ticks
- Kills ticks that may transmit Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, haemobartonellosis, ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, anaplasmosis, and other tick-borne diseases
Lice:
- Rapidly eliminates chewing lice infestations
Mites:
- Aids in control of sarcoptic mange infestations
How often is Frontline Plus applied, and which dogs are eligible?
Frontline Plus is applied every 30 days for ongoing flea and tick protection. The appropriate dose depends on the dog’s body weight.
Frontline Plus for Dogs is labeled for use in puppies and dogs 8 weeks of age and older and weighing at least 5 pounds. According to the product label, this topical treatment is acceptable for use in breeding, pregnant, and lactating dogs when used as directed.
Similarities Between Bravecto Topical and Frontline Plus
- Both are topical products applied to a dog’s skin.
- Both kill adult fleas and treat and prevent flea infestations.
- Both treat and control black-legged ticks (deer ticks), American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and Lone Star ticks.
- Both are available in different sizes/strengths for appropriate dosage based on the dog’s body weight.
Differences Between Bravecto Topical and Frontline Plus
Active ingredients:
Bravecto Topical contains fluralaner, while Frontline Plus contains two active ingredients, fipronil and (S)-methoprene.
Duration of protection:
One dose of Bravecto Topical provides up to 12 weeks of protection against fleas and brown dog ticks, black-legged ticks, and American dog ticks;and 8 weeks of protection against Lone Star ticks.
Frontline Plus provides protection against fleas and ticks for 30 days.
Parasite coverage:
Frontline Plus rapidly eliminates chewing lice infestations and aids in the control of sarcoptic mange infestations, which Bravecto topical does not.
Water exposure:
Frontline Plus is labeled as a waterproof formula, with the manufacturer advising that your dog needs to remain dry for 24-hours after application.
According to the product label, bathing or water immersion of the dog 3 days after administration of Bravecto will not reduce its effectiveness against fleas and ticks.
Age & Weight requirements:
Bravecto Topical for Dogs is intended for dogs aged 6 months and older weighing at least 4.4 pounds. In comparison, Frontline Plus for Dogs can be used in puppies from 8 weeks of age weighing at least 5 pounds.
Bravecto Topical and Frontline Plus: A Side-by-Side Comparison
Final Thoughts
Both Bravecto Topical and Frontline Plus can play a worthy role in flea and tick prevention for dogs, when used as directed. The selection of one for your pet depends on your dog’s age, weight, parasite risk, and health condition. Talk to your veterinarian to determine the suitable option for your dog. You can explore these and other flea and tick products, and various dog care products at CanadaVetExpress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Bravecto Topical or Frontline Plus alongside a monthly heartworm preventive?
Both Bravecto topical and Frontline Plus for dogs are intended for flea and tick control and are not labeled to prevent heartworm disease in dogs. However, if your dog requires heartworm prevention, it’s better to consult your veterinarian before starting any new product.
How long after applying Frontline Plus can my dog get wet or have a bath?
According to the product label, your dog needs to be dry at the time Frontline Plus for Dogs is applied and remain dry for 24 hours after application. If they do come into contact with water before 24 hours, the efficacy of the treatment may be reduced, and reapplication may be needed. If this is the case, please contact your veterinarian for better guidance.
Can I use Frontline Plus for Dogs on my cat?
No, Frontline Plus for Dogs is specifically formulated and approved for use on dogs. It should not be used on cats or other animals.
Can I switch from Bravecto Topical to Frontline Plus, or vice versa?
Both Bravecto Topical and Frontline Plus are topical options for canine flea and tick prevention, but they should not be treated as interchangeable. It is always good to confirm with your veterinarian first for the right timing and to avoid any overlap or gap in the parasite protection of your dog.
