Worming tablets vs spot-on for Aussie pets

Introduction

Both worming tablets and spot-ons can protect pets when used correctly. The best choice is the one that fits your pet and your routine so you can give it on time, every time. This guide was prepared with input from our lead vet and founder, Dr. Feargus McConnell, BVSc.

Worming tablets and chews: how they help

Oral products are easy for many dogs and cover common intestinal worms. Some also prevent heartworm and control fleas and ticks in one dose. Giving a chew with food is simple for most households. Tablets can be harder for fussy cats.

Spot-on wormers: how they help

Spot-ons suit many cats and some dogs. They are applied to the skin and can cover roundworm and hookworm in cats, often with flea and tick control included. You must keep the coat dry for the time stated on the label after you apply it.

Coverage differences you should know

• Tapeworm: Many cat spot-ons do not treat tapeworm. Your vet may add a tablet that contains praziquantel if tapeworm is a risk.

• Heartworm: Some monthly products include heartworm prevention. Others do not. Check your label.

• Fleas and ticks: Many spot-ons and some chews include flea and tick control. This helps break the reinfection cycle.

How to choose for your home

• Dogs that swim or are bathed often: Oral chews are easier to keep consistent.

• Cats or fussy eaters: Spot-ons avoid the struggle of tablet giving.

• Households wanting one product for many parasites: Look for labels that include heartworm prevention and intestinal worms.

• Tapeworm risk from hunting or fleas: Plan for a tapeworm tablet when your vet advises.

Dosing and reminders

Most products are monthly. Some tapeworm tablets are given as needed. Set a repeating phone reminder and tie dose day to an easy date. If you use different products for different parasites, follow the shortest interval so you do not leave gaps.

Missed a dose

Give it as soon as you remember, then reset your reminders from today. If you missed by more than a couple of weeks, refresh house hygiene and ask your vet whether any testing is needed before restarting heartworm prevention.

Safety you should always check

• Match species, weight band, and minimum age every time.

• Dog products for dogs only. Never use a dog product on a cat.

• Do not stack wormers or double-dose unless your vet tells you to.

• Ask your vet before dosing if your pet is pregnant, breeding, or unwell.

Products we trust

• Dogs: Simparica Trio Chewable Tablet for Dogs — monthly chew that covers heartworm prevention and common intestinal worms, plus fleas and ticks when used as directed.

• Cats: Revolution Plus Spot-On for Cats — monthly spot-on that covers roundworm and hookworm in cats, with fleas, ticks and mites when used as directed.

• Cats: Revolution Topical Solution for Cats — monthly spot-on with heartworm prevention, fleas and mites. Pair with a tapeworm tablet if your vet advises.

FAQ

Which is better, a tablet or a spot-on?
Both work when used on time. Choose the format you can give without fail each month.

Do spot-ons cover tapeworm in cats?
Often not. Your vet may add a tapeworm tablet if your cat hunts or has fleas.

What if my pet refuses tablets?
Use a spot-on for cats or a flavour chew for dogs. Pick what you can give on time, every time.

Not sure which format fits your pet and household?
Tell us your pet’s age, weight, and routine and we will help you choose — contact us.

Shop trusted parasite protection for dogs and cats. Our vet-led team can help you set a simple, monthly plan that sticks.