🐾 NexGard Combo for Cats 🐱💊

NexGard Combo is a revolutionary, all-in-one topical parasite treatment for cats in the USA, offering broad-spectrum protection against fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. With its unique combination of three active ingredients—esafoxolaner, eprinomectin, and praziquantel—it’s the first and only topical solution for cats that kills tapeworms, setting it apart from competitors like Revolution Plus.


📝 Quick Key Takeaways: NexGard Combo for Cats

What does it protect against? Fleas, ticks, heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms.

How is it applied? Monthly, as a topical liquid at the base of the neck.

How fast does it work? Kills fleas within 8 hours, ticks within 24 hours, and worms within 48 hours.

Who can use it? Cats 8 weeks and older, weighing at least 1.8 lbs.

Is it safe? Generally well-tolerated, but caution is advised for cats with neurological disorders.

Prescription required? Yes, only available through veterinarians or licensed online pharmacies.

How much does it cost? Around $20–$30 per dose or $60–$90 for a 3-month supply.

How does it compare to alternatives? The only topical option covering tapeworms; broader protection than Revolution Plus.


🐜 What Parasites Does NexGard Combo Kill?

📊 Comparison of NexGard Combo vs. Other Popular Parasite Treatments

Parasite Type 🦟NexGard ComboRevolution PlusBravecto PlusAdvantage Multi
Fleas 🐜✅ Kills adult fleas & prevents eggs
Ticks 🕷️✅ Black-legged, Lone Star ticks
Heartworms ❤️✅ Prevents heartworm disease
Roundworms 🌀✅ Treats & controls
Hookworms 🪱✅ Treats & controls
Tapeworms 🦠Only topical product that kills tapeworms

💡 Why This Matters: Tapeworms are commonly overlooked but can cause weight loss, vomiting, and malnutrition in cats. Only NexGard Combo includes praziquantel, making it a true all-in-one solution.


📌 How Does NexGard Combo Work?

NexGard Combo works through three active ingredients that target different parasites:

Ingredient 💊What It Does 🩺How Fast It Works ⏳
EsafoxolanerKills fleas & ticks by disrupting their nervous system.Fleas: Within 8 hours 🕗 Ticks: Within 24 hours
EprinomectinPrevents heartworm & treats roundworms & hookworms.Eliminates larvae before they reach the heart. ❤️
PraziquantelKills tapeworms by breaking down their structure.Eliminates tapeworms within 48 hours.

🩺 Is NexGard Combo Safe for Cats?

📊 Common Side Effects & Risks

Side Effect 🚨How Common? 📊What to Do? ✅
Vomiting 🤢6.6% of catsUsually mild; offer water & monitor.
Mild skin reactions3.7%Avoid touching the site for 4 hours.
Lethargy 💤2.5%Normal; should resolve in a few hours.
Salivation if lickedOccasionallyBitter taste; distract with food or water.
Seizures (rare) ⚠️Possible in sensitive catsConsult vet immediately if tremors occur.

💡 Important: NexGard Combo contains an isoxazoline (esafoxolaner), which has been linked to rare neurological effects (seizures, tremors) in some pets. If your cat has a history of seizures, talk to your vet before use!

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📅 How to Use NexGard Combo: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Open the applicator and part your cat’s fur at the base of the skull.

Step 2: Apply the full contents directly onto the skin (not just the fur).

Step 3: Avoid touching the area until fully dry (~4 hours).

Step 4: Prevent licking by keeping your cat occupied.

Step 5: Apply once per month, on the same day each month.

📌 Storage Tip: Keep at room temperature (below 86°F) and out of direct sunlight.


💰 How Much Does NexGard Combo Cost in the USA?

📊 Average Prices for NexGard Combo

Pack Size 📦Approx. Cost 💵Cost Per Month 🏷️
Single dose$20–$30$20–$30
3-month pack$60–$90$20–$30
6-month pack$120–$180$20–$30

💡 Where to Buy: Available by prescription only through veterinarians, Chewy, PetSmart, and licensed online pharmacies.

💰 Money-Saving Tip: Some vet clinics and online pharmacies offer rebates (e.g., $10 off 3 doses, $45 off 12 doses). Check manufacturer promotions!


🔍 How Does NexGard Combo Compare to Revolution Plus?

📊 NexGard Combo vs. Revolution Plus

FeatureNexGard ComboRevolution Plus
Kills fleas & ticks✅ Yes✅ Yes
Prevents heartworm✅ Yes✅ Yes
Treats roundworms & hookworms✅ Yes✅ Yes
Kills tapewormsYesNo
ApplicationTopical, once a monthTopical, once a month
Prescription required?✅ Yes✅ Yes
Neurological risk?⚠️ Isoxazoline (seizure risk in rare cases)No isoxazoline

💡 Verdict: If you need tapeworm coverage, NexGard Combo is superior. If your cat has a neurological condition, Revolution Plus may be a safer choice.


📌 Final Thoughts: Should You Use NexGard Combo for Your Cat?

Best For:

  • ✔️ Cat owners who want a single product for all parasites (including tapeworms).
  • ✔️ Cats in high-risk flea, tick, or heartworm regions (e.g., Southern USA).
  • ✔️ Multi-pet homes looking for easy monthly prevention.

⚠️ Not Recommended If:

  • ❌ Your cat has a history of seizures or neurological issues (consult a vet first).
  • ❌ You prefer an oral flea treatment (this is topical only).

FAQs 🐾💊


🗨️ Comment 1: “How long does NexGard Combo take to start working?”

NexGard Combo starts working within hours, but the exact timing depends on the parasite.

📊 How Fast Does NexGard Combo Work?

Parasite 🦠Time Until NexGard Combo Starts Killing 🕒When Full Protection Kicks In ✅
Fleas 🐜Kills fleas within 8 hours100% flea protection within 24 hours
Ticks 🕷️Kills within 24 hoursContinuous month-long protection
Heartworm Prevention ❤️Prevents larvae from maturingMonthly use required for full prevention
Roundworms & Hookworms 🪱Starts eliminating in 24–48 hoursFull parasite clearance within a few days
Tapeworms 🌀Eliminated within 48 hoursOngoing prevention with monthly application

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re dealing with an active flea infestation, vacuuming and washing bedding can help speed up elimination by removing flea eggs from your home.

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🗨️ Comment 2: “What happens if my cat licks NexGard Combo?”

⚠️ If your cat licks NexGard Combo off its fur, you may notice mild side effects due to its bitter taste.

📊 What to Expect if Your Cat Ingests NexGard Combo

Severity Level 🚨Symptoms to Watch For 👀What to Do? ✅
Mild (most common)Drooling, lip licking, mild nausea✅ Offer water, monitor for 1–2 hours
ModerateVomiting, reduced appetite✅ Contact your vet if symptoms persist
Severe (rare)Tremors, lethargy, trouble walking🚑 Seek emergency vet care

💡 Prevention Tip: Apply NexGard Combo at the base of the skull where your cat can’t reach it to lick it off.


🗨️ Comment 3: “Does NexGard Combo prevent ear mites?”

No, NexGard Combo does not treat or prevent ear mites (Otodectes cynotis).

📊 Parasites Covered by NexGard Combo vs. Other Treatments

Parasite Type 🦟NexGard Combo ✅Revolution Plus ✅Bravecto Plus ✅Advantage Multi ✅
Fleas 🐜
Ticks 🕷️
Heartworm ❤️
Roundworms & Hookworms 🪱
Tapeworms 🌀
Ear Mites 🦻

💡 Alternative: If your cat needs ear mite protection, Revolution Plus or Advantage Multi would be a better choice.


🗨️ Comment 4: “Can I use NexGard Combo on kittens?”

Yes, NexGard Combo is approved for kittens as young as 8 weeks old and weighing at least 1.8 lbs.

📊 NexGard Combo Safety for Kittens

Kitten Age 🐱Safe to Use NexGard Combo? ✅❌Notes
Under 8 weeks❌ NoNot tested for safety in very young kittens
8 weeks – 6 months✅ YesUse appropriate dose for weight
6 months+✅ YesStandard dosing applies

💡 Vet Tip: For kittens under 8 weeks, consult your vet for safe flea & parasite alternatives.


🗨️ Comment 5: “Does NexGard Combo work on indoor cats?”

Yes! Indoor cats are still at risk for fleas, ticks, and heartworms.

📊 Why Indoor Cats Need Flea & Parasite Protection

Risk Factor 🏠How It Happens 🕵️‍♂️Protection Needed? ✅
Fleas 🐜Fleas can enter homes on clothing, shoes, or other pets.✅ Yes
Ticks 🕷️Humans can carry ticks inside unknowingly.✅ Yes
Heartworm 🦟Mosquitoes can enter through windows and bite cats.✅ Yes
Tapeworms 🌀Indoor cats can ingest fleas carrying tapeworm larvae.✅ Yes

💡 Even strictly indoor cats can get fleas and parasites. NexGard Combo ensures they stay protected year-round.


🗨️ Comment 6: “Can I use NexGard Combo if my cat has a seizure disorder?”

⚠️ Use caution! NexGard Combo contains esafoxolaner, an isoxazoline, which has been linked to neurological side effects (seizures, tremors, ataxia) in rare cases.

📊 Safer Alternatives for Cats with Seizures

Medication Type 💊Safe for Cats with Seizures? ✅❌Notes
NexGard Combo⚠️ Use with cautionContains an isoxazoline, which may trigger seizures.
Revolution PlusYesNo known seizure risk.
Advantage MultiYesNo isoxazoline ingredients.
Bravecto PlusNoAlso contains an isoxazoline.

💡 Vet Advice: If your cat has a history of seizures, discuss Revolution Plus or Advantage Multi as safer flea/parasite prevention options.

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🗨️ Comment 7: “What happens if I miss a NexGard Combo dose?”

Apply as soon as you remember! Delaying too long can increase the risk of fleas, ticks, or heartworm infection.

📊 Missed Dose Guide: What to Do?

Time Since Last Dose ⏳What to Do? ✅Risk Level 🚨
1–3 days lateApply immediately; continue monthly.❌ Low risk.
1–2 weeks lateApply as soon as possible; monitor for parasites.⚠️ Moderate risk—watch for flea/tick activity.
More than 2 weeks lateRestart monthly schedule; vet check may be needed.🚨 High risk—heartworm prevention may be compromised.

💡 Set a reminder on your phone to apply NexGard Combo on the same day each month for best protection.


🗨️ Comment 8: “Is NexGard Combo better than Revolution Plus?”

It depends on your cat’s needs!

📊 NexGard Combo vs. Revolution Plus: Which One is Better?

Feature ⚖️NexGard Combo ✅Revolution Plus ✅
Fleas & ticks✅ Yes✅ Yes
Heartworm prevention✅ Yes✅ Yes
Roundworms & hookworms✅ Yes✅ Yes
Tapeworms✅ Yes❌ No
Safe for seizure-prone cats?❌ No (contains isoxazoline)✅ Yes (no isoxazoline)
Prescription required?✅ Yes✅ Yes
  • 💡 Choose NexGard Combo if: Your cat needs tapeworm protection.
  • 💡 Choose Revolution Plus if: Your cat has seizure concerns or you want a slightly gentler formula.

🗨️ Comment 9: “How does NexGard Combo compare to other flea & tick treatments for cats?”

NexGard Combo stands out because it’s the only topical that kills tapeworms in addition to fleas, ticks, and heartworms. However, different flea treatments excel in different areas, so choosing the best one depends on your cat’s specific needs.

📊 Comparison of NexGard Combo vs. Other Flea & Tick Treatments

Feature ⚖️NexGard Combo ✅Revolution Plus ✅Bravecto Plus ✅Advantage Multi ✅
Kills Fleas 🐜✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes
Kills Ticks 🕷️✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes❌ No
Prevents Heartworm ❤️✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes
Kills Tapeworms 🌀Yes❌ No❌ No❌ No
Treats Roundworms & Hookworms 🪱✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes✅ Yes
Safe for Seizure-Prone Cats?❌ No (contains isoxazoline)✅ Yes❌ No✅ Yes
Duration of Protection1 month1 month3 months1 month
  • 💡 Best for All-in-One Coverage: NexGard Combo (covers tapeworms, heartworm, fleas, and ticks).
  • 💡 Best for Seizure-Prone Cats: Revolution Plus or Advantage Multi.
  • 💡 Best for Long-Lasting Protection: Bravecto Plus (lasts 3 months).

🗨️ Comment 10: “Can I use NexGard Combo along with other flea medications?”

⚠️ No, using NexGard Combo with another flea treatment is unnecessary and potentially harmful. Combining multiple parasite preventatives can increase the risk of side effects, toxicity, or overdose.

📊 When Can You Use Another Treatment with NexGard Combo?

Scenario 🧐Is It Safe? ✅❌What to Do? 🩺
Using another flea treatment at the same time❌ NoAvoid combining treatments to prevent overdose.
Switching to NexGard Combo from another product✅ YesWait until the previous treatment cycle ends before applying NexGard Combo.
Adding a dewormer like Drontal❌ Not neededNexGard Combo already kills tapeworms.
Adding an ear mite treatment✅ YesUse a separate treatment like Revolution if ear mites are an issue.

💡 If your cat has a severe flea infestation, consult your vet about additional home treatments (like flea sprays for carpets) rather than doubling up on medications.


🗨️ Comment 11: “Does NexGard Combo repel fleas and ticks, or just kill them?”

NexGard Combo does NOT repel fleas and ticks—it kills them after contact.

📊 Difference Between Repelling vs. Killing Fleas & Ticks

Effect 🔬Does NexGard Combo Do This? ✅❌How It Works ⚡
Repels Fleas 🐜❌ NoFleas must come into contact with the cat’s skin before dying.
Kills Fleas 🩸✅ YesFleas die within 8 hours after exposure.
Repels Ticks 🕷️❌ NoTicks can still attach but will die after 24 hours.
Kills Ticks ☠️✅ YesTicks are eliminated before they can transmit diseases.

💡 Why This Matters: If you live in a tick-heavy area, check your cat regularly and remove any ticks that haven’t died yet.


🗨️ Comment 12: “Can NexGard Combo be used on pregnant or nursing cats?”

⚠️ NexGard Combo has NOT been tested for safety in pregnant or lactating cats, so it is NOT recommended.

📊 Safe Flea & Tick Treatments for Pregnant/Nursing Cats

Product Name 💊Safe for Pregnant Cats? 🤰Safe for Nursing Cats? 🍼
NexGard Combo❌ No❌ No
Revolution Plus❌ No✅ Yes
Advantage II✅ Yes✅ Yes
Frontline Plus✅ Yes✅ Yes

💡 Alternative: If your cat is pregnant or nursing, consult your vet about using Advantage II or Frontline Plus instead.


🗨️ Comment 13: “What should I do if my cat has a reaction to NexGard Combo?”

Mild reactions like temporary lethargy or drooling are common and usually resolve on their own. However, severe symptoms require immediate vet attention.

📊 What to Do If Your Cat Has a Reaction to NexGard Combo

Reaction Type 🚨Symptoms 👀Action Needed ✅
Mild (most common)Lethargy, mild nausea, drooling, decreased appetite✅ Monitor for 24 hours; offer water and food.
ModerateVomiting, itching at application site, excessive grooming✅ Contact vet if symptoms persist beyond 24 hours.
Severe (rare)Seizures, tremors, difficulty breathing, extreme lethargy🚑 Seek emergency vet care IMMEDIATELY.

💡 If your cat has a history of neurological issues, discuss alternatives with your vet before using NexGard Combo.


🗨️ Comment 14: “Can NexGard Combo be used on outdoor cats?”

Yes! NexGard Combo is an excellent choice for outdoor cats because it covers fleas, ticks, heartworms, and intestinal worms—all common risks for cats that roam outside.

📊 Why NexGard Combo Is Ideal for Outdoor Cats

Outdoor Risk 🌳How NexGard Combo Protects 🛡️
Fleas & TicksKills fleas within 8 hours and ticks within 24 hours.
HeartwormsPrevents mosquito-borne heartworm disease.
Roundworms & HookwormsProtects against intestinal parasites picked up from the environment.
TapewormsEliminates tapeworms carried by fleas or prey animals.

💡 For feral or hard-to-handle outdoor cats, consider Bravecto Plus, which lasts 3 months per dose.


🗨️ Comment 15: “Is NexGard Combo waterproof? Can I bathe my cat after applying it?”

NexGard Combo is water-resistant once fully absorbed (about 4 hours after application).

📊 Bathing & Water Exposure After NexGard Combo Application

Scenario 🚿Safe? ✅❌Recommended Wait Time ⏳
Bathing immediately after application❌ NoWait at least 24 hours.
Bathing after 4+ hours✅ YesProduct is absorbed, but avoid excessive washing.
Swimming or rain exposure✅ YesSafe once fully dried.

💡 If you need to bathe your cat, do so before applying NexGard Combo, or wait a full day afterward.


🗨️ Comment 16: “Is NexGard Combo safe for senior cats?”

Yes, NexGard Combo is generally safe for senior cats, but age-related health conditions should be considered.

📊 Using NexGard Combo in Senior Cats

Factor 🧐Consideration for Senior CatsWhat to Do? ✅
Metabolism 🩺Older cats may process medications slower, leading to prolonged effects.✅ Monitor for increased lethargy or mild side effects.
Kidney & Liver Function 🏥Senior cats may have decreased organ function, which can affect drug clearance.✅ Vet check recommended before use, especially if your cat has CKD.
Neurological Health ⚠️Isoxazolines (esafoxolaner) have been linked to rare seizure risks.✅ If your senior cat has a seizure history, opt for Revolution Plus instead.
Existing Medications 💊Some older cats are on multiple medications.✅ Discuss potential interactions with your vet before using.

💡 Vet Tip: For senior cats (10+ years old), a pre-treatment blood test can confirm if NexGard Combo is a safe choice based on kidney and liver function.


🗨️ Comment 17: “Can NexGard Combo be used for multi-cat households?”

Yes! NexGard Combo is a great choice for households with multiple cats, but careful application is key to prevent ingestion.

📊 Tips for Using NexGard Combo in Multi-Cat Homes

Potential Issue 🏡Risk Factor 🚨Prevention Tips ✅
Cats Grooming Each OtherOne cat licking the other’s application site may cause drooling or mild nausea.✅ Apply at the base of the skull where licking is impossible.
Cross-Contamination 🛏️Cats rubbing against each other could transfer some product.✅ Keep cats separated for 4 hours until dry.
Dose MixingMixing up doses for different weight classes may lead to under- or overdosing.✅ Label each dose by cat name & weight.

💡 Pro Tip: If you have kittens under 8 weeks, keep them separated from treated adult cats until the medication fully absorbs.


🗨️ Comment 18: “Can I use NexGard Combo if my cat already has fleas?”

Yes! NexGard Combo is designed to kill active flea infestations.

📊 What to Expect When Treating an Active Flea Infestation

Stage of Flea Life Cycle 🐜How NexGard Combo Works 🛡️Timeline for Results ⏳
Adult FleasKilled on contact before they can lay eggs.Dead within 8 hours.
Eggs & LarvaePrevents eggs from developing into adult fleas.Full life cycle break takes 3–4 weeks.
Flea Dirt (Droppings)Remains on the fur until cleaned off.Bathe or brush your cat for faster removal.
Environmental Fleas (Carpet, Bedding, Furniture)NexGard Combo doesn’t kill fleas in the home.Vacuum frequently & wash bedding.

💡 Fastest Results: If fleas are severe, combine NexGard Combo with environmental flea control, like sprays or flea traps, to prevent reinfestation.


🗨️ Comment 19: “Does NexGard Combo have any smell or greasy residue?”

No strong smell, and dries quickly!

📊 Texture & Absorption of NexGard Combo

Feature 🧴NexGard Combo ✅Other Topicals ❌
Greasy Feel?❌ No✅ Yes (some leave an oily residue for days).
Strong Odor?❌ No✅ Some have a chemical smell.
Drying Time?Fast (~4 hours)Varies (some take 24+ hours).

💡 Owner Feedback: Most cat owners say it’s less messy than Frontline or Advantage but suggest avoiding petting the area for a few hours after application.


🗨️ Comment 20: “What happens if I accidentally apply NexGard Combo to the wrong spot?”

⚠️ If applied incorrectly (e.g., too low on the back or near the mouth), it may be ingested or spread unevenly.

📊 What to Do If NexGard Combo Is Misapplied

Issue ❌Risk Level 🚨Solution ✅
Applied too low on the backFleas may survive in untreated areas.✅ Next time, apply at the base of the skull for even absorption.
Cat licked itMild drooling or nausea due to bitterness.✅ Offer water & distract with treats.
Too much in one spotLocalized irritation or oily fur.✅ Gently wipe excess with a dry tissue.

💡 Key Takeaway: If misapplied, do NOT reapply right away—wait until the next scheduled dose.


🗨️ Comment 21: “Can NexGard Combo be used year-round?”

Yes! Year-round use is recommended, especially in warm climates or flea-prone areas.

📊 Why Use NexGard Combo Year-Round?

Season ❄️☀️Flea & Tick Activity 🦠Should You Use NexGard Combo? ✅❌
Spring & Summer 🌞Peak flea, tick, and mosquito activity.Yes! Most important time to use it.
Fall 🍂Fleas and ticks still active, but declining.✅ Recommended.
Winter ❄️Indoor fleas survive; ticks in warmer states stay active.✅ Still needed—parasites don’t fully disappear.

💡 Misconception: Even if fleas seem gone in winter, eggs and larvae can remain in carpets and bedding, hatching when temperatures rise again.


🗨️ Comment 22: “Does NexGard Combo protect against Lyme disease?”

Indirectly, yes! NexGard Combo kills ticks that carry Lyme disease before they can transmit the infection.

📊 Tick-Borne Diseases NexGard Combo Helps Prevent

Disease 🦠Carrying Tick 🕷️Does NexGard Combo Kill the Tick? ✅
Lyme DiseaseBlack-legged Tick✅ Yes
Cytauxzoonosis (Deadly in Cats)Lone Star Tick✅ Yes
AnaplasmosisBlack-legged Tick✅ Yes

💡 Vet Tip: Check your cat for ticks after outdoor exposure, especially around ears, face, and paws—even with NexGard Combo, some ticks may attach before dying.

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