As a pet owner, ensuring your dog’s health and well-being is of utmost importance. One of the most effective ways to protect your dog from fleas and ticks is by using NexGard, a popular flea and tick prevention medication. However, if you have a smaller dog, you might be wondering if it’s safe to cut NexGard in half to avoid wasting medication and reduce costs. In this article, we will delve into the details of NexGard, its dosage, and the potential risks associated with cutting it in half for smaller dogs.
What is NexGard and How Does it Work?
NexGard is a chewable tablet that contains the active ingredient afoxolaner, which is used to kill fleas and ticks on dogs. It is a systemic medication, meaning it works from the inside out, and is usually given orally once a month. NexGard is designed to be easy to administer, as it is a palatable chew that dogs love to eat. The medication works by inhibiting the flea’s and tick’s nervous system, causing them to become paralyzed and eventually die. NexGard is a highly effective medication, killing fleas and ticks within four to six hours of administration.
Importance of Proper Dosage
When it comes to administering NexGard, it’s essential to follow the recommended dosage instructions carefully. The dosage of NexGard is based on your dog’s weight, and it’s crucial to ensure that your dog receives the correct amount to avoid any potential side effects. The recommended dosage of NexGard is 2.5-6.8 mg/kg of body weight, and it’s available in four different strengths: 9 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg, and 80 mg.
Risks of Cutting NexGard in Half
While it might be tempting to cut NexGard in half to save money or to administer it to a smaller dog, it’s not recommended by the manufacturer. Cutting NexGard in half can lead to several problems, including:
- Inconsistent dosing: When you cut NexGard in half, it can be challenging to ensure that your dog is receiving the exact correct dose. This can lead to inadequate protection against fleas and ticks or, conversely, to an overdose.
- Reduced efficacy: Cutting NexGard in half may affect its efficacy, as the medication may not be released into the system as intended.
- Potential side effects: Altering the dosage of NexGard can increase the risk of side effects, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and itching.
Alternatives for Smaller Dogs
If you have a smaller dog and are concerned about the cost or dosage of NexGard, there are several alternatives you can consider:
- Consult with your veterinarian: Your veterinarian can help you determine the best flea and tick prevention medication for your smaller dog, taking into account their weight, age, and health status.
- Look for smaller dosage options: Some flea and tick prevention medications are available in smaller dosages or formulations specifically designed for smaller dogs.
- Consider a different formulation: Topical treatments or collars may be more suitable for smaller dogs, as they often come in smaller sizes or can be adjusted to fit your dog’s weight and size.
NexGard Dosage for Smaller Dogs
If your veterinarian recommends NexGard for your smaller dog, it’s essential to follow their guidance on dosage. The manufacturer provides a dosing chart that outlines the recommended dosage based on the dog’s weight. For dogs weighing between 4-10 pounds, the recommended dosage is 9 mg, and for dogs weighing between 10.1-24 pounds, the recommended dosage is 20 mg.
NexGard Administration Tips
To ensure that your smaller dog receives the correct dose of NexGard, follow these administration tips:
– Administer the medication directly into your dog’s mouth, ensuring they swallow the entire tablet.
– Make sure your dog has eaten before giving them NexGard, as this can help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.
– Avoid crushing or breaking the tablet, as this can affect the medication’s efficacy.
Conclusion
While it might be tempting to cut NexGard in half for a smaller dog, it’s not recommended due to the potential risks associated with inconsistent dosing, reduced efficacy, and increased side effects. Instead, consult with your veterinarian to determine the best flea and tick prevention medication for your smaller dog, taking into account their weight, age, and health status. By following the recommended dosage instructions and considering alternative formulations or medications, you can ensure that your smaller dog remains protected against fleas and ticks while minimizing potential risks. Remember, always prioritize your dog’s health and well-being by following the guidance of a veterinary professional and adhering to the recommended dosage instructions for any medication.
In order to provide the most accurate and helpful information, it is crucial to understand that calculating the right dosage for your dog depends on various factors including the dog’s weight, age and health status. Always seek advice from a veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s medication regimen.
| Weight Range | Recommended Dosage |
|---|---|
| 4-10 pounds | 9 mg |
| 10.1-24 pounds | 20 mg |
| 24.1-60 pounds | 40 mg |
| 60.1-120 pounds | 80 mg |
Always consult with a veterinarian before making any decisions about your dog’s medication. A veterinarian will be able to provide the most accurate and up-to-date advice on flea and tick prevention for your dog.
Can I Cut NexGard in Half for a Smaller Dog?
Cutting NexGard in half for a smaller dog may seem like an easy solution to ensure the right dosage, but it is not recommended by the manufacturer. NexGard is designed to provide a specific amount of the active ingredients afoxolaner and milbemycin oxime in each chewable tablet. The tablets are formulated to be given whole, and splitting them could potentially affect the efficacy of the medication. If the tablet is not split evenly, it could result in an overdose or underdose, which could lead to adverse reactions or reduced effectiveness against fleas and ticks.
The manufacturer’s recommendation is to administer the medication as directed, without splitting or crushing the tablets. For smaller dogs, the company offers various sizes of NexGard chews, each containing a specific amount of the active ingredients based on the dog’s weight. Pet owners should consult with their veterinarian to determine the correct size and dosage of NexGard for their dog. Veterinarians can also provide guidance on how to ensure the safe and effective administration of the medication, including any potential alternatives or adjustments that may be needed for smaller dogs.
What Are the Risks of Cutting NexGard Chews in Half?
Cutting NexGard chews in half can pose several risks to the health and well-being of smaller dogs. One of the primary concerns is the potential for an uneven distribution of the active ingredients, which could lead to an overdose or underdose. An overdose can cause adverse reactions such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and in severe cases, seizures or even death. On the other hand, an underdose may not provide adequate protection against fleas and ticks, which could lead to infestations and the transmission of diseases.
In addition to the risks associated with uneven dosing, cutting NexGard chews in half can also compromise the integrity of the medication. NexGard is designed to be given whole, and splitting the tablet could affect the way the body absorbs the active ingredients. This could lead to reduced efficacy or increased side effects, which could be detrimental to the dog’s health. To avoid these risks, pet owners should consult with their veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment for their smaller dog, including the use of alternative flea and tick preventatives or adjusting the dosage of NexGard according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Can I Use a Smaller Size of NexGard for My Dog?
Yes, the manufacturer of NexGard offers various sizes of chews, each formulated for specific weight ranges of dogs. For smaller dogs, it is essential to use the correct size of NexGard to ensure the right dosage of the active ingredients. Using a larger size of NexGard on a smaller dog could lead to an overdose, while using a smaller size on a larger dog may not provide adequate protection against fleas and ticks. Pet owners should consult with their veterinarian to determine the correct size of NexGard for their dog based on its weight and other health factors.
The different sizes of NexGard chews are designed to provide a specific amount of afoxolaner and milbemycin oxime, the active ingredients responsible for killing fleas and ticks. The chews are available in various sizes, including those for dogs weighing between 4-10 pounds, 10.1-24 pounds, 24.1-60 pounds, and 60.1-121 pounds. By using the correct size of NexGard for their dog, pet owners can help ensure the safe and effective administration of the medication, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions or reduced efficacy.
What Are the Alternatives to NexGard for Smaller Dogs?
For smaller dogs, there are several alternatives to NexGard that pet owners can consider. One option is to use a different flea and tick preventative medication, such as Frontline or Advantix, which are available in various formulations and sizes. Another option is to use a topical treatment, such as a spray or spot-on medication, which can be more easily adjusted to the individual dog’s weight and needs. In addition, some pet owners may prefer to use natural or holistic approaches to flea and tick control, such as dietary supplements or herbal remedies.
It is essential to consult with a veterinarian before switching to an alternative flea and tick preventative medication or using a natural approach. Veterinarians can help determine the best course of treatment based on the individual dog’s health status, weight, and other factors. They can also provide guidance on the safe and effective use of alternative medications or natural approaches, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions or reduced efficacy. By working with a veterinarian, pet owners can find the best solution for their smaller dog’s flea and tick control needs.
How Do I Administer NexGard Safely to My Smaller Dog?
To administer NexGard safely to a smaller dog, pet owners should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult with their veterinarian. The medication should be given orally, with or without food, according to the veterinarian’s recommendations. It is essential to use the correct size of NexGard for the dog’s weight, as specified on the packaging or as directed by the veterinarian. The chews should be given whole, without splitting or crushing, to ensure the even distribution of the active ingredients.
Pet owners should also monitor their dog’s behavior and health after administering NexGard, watching for any signs of adverse reactions, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If any of these symptoms occur, the pet owner should seek veterinary care immediately. In addition, pet owners should ensure that their dog has access to plenty of fresh water and a balanced diet to help minimize the risk of side effects. By following the manufacturer’s instructions and consulting with a veterinarian, pet owners can help ensure the safe and effective administration of NexGard to their smaller dog.
Can I Use NexGard for Puppies or Pregnant Dogs?
NexGard is approved for use in puppies as young as 8 weeks old, but it is essential to consult with a veterinarian before administering the medication to puppies or pregnant dogs. The veterinarian can help determine the correct dosage and ensure that the medication is safe for the puppy or pregnant dog to use. Puppies and pregnant dogs may require special consideration when using flea and tick preventatives, as their developing bodies may be more susceptible to the effects of the medication.
In general, NexGard is considered safe for use in puppies and pregnant dogs when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions and under the guidance of a veterinarian. However, pet owners should always consult with their veterinarian before using any medication on their puppy or pregnant dog, as the veterinarian can provide personalized guidance and recommendations based on the individual dog’s health status and needs. By working with a veterinarian, pet owners can help ensure the safe and effective use of NexGard for their puppy or pregnant dog.