Interceptor Plus vs. Simparica Trio
Both Interceptor Plus and Simparica Trio are excellent options for protecting your dog against heartworm and intestinal parasites. Interceptor Plus is a monthly oral heartworm preventive and dewormer that's typically paired with a separate monthly or every-three-month flea and tick treatment. Simparica Trio is a newer alternative—a single monthly oral medication that combines heartworm prevention, intestinal parasite treatment, and flea and tick protection all in one.
Key Differences
- Parasite coverage: Simparica Trio does not treat tapeworms (contracted from fleas or by eating rodents and rabbits) or whipworms. Interceptor Plus, when combined with a full-spectrum flea treatment, covers a wider range of parasites.
- Ease of dosing: Interceptor Plus requires two medications per month, while Simparica Trio is a single dose.
- Your dog's lifestyle: If your dog hunts, is frequently exposed to fleas, or has a history of whipworms, Interceptor Plus with a separate flea/tick medication is the better choice. In Mercer County, whipworm affects about 1 in 200 dogs, while hookworm affects about 1 in 50.
Which Is Right for Your Pet?
- Choose Interceptor Plus if your dog has outdoor exposure to rodents or rabbits, current or previous flea problems, or a known history of whipworms.
- Choose Simparica Trio if your dog has minimal exposure to whipworms and tapeworms, and you prefer the simplicity of one medication per month.
Both medications are equally effective at preventing heartworm and treating the most common intestinal parasites. Talk to our veterinary team about which option best fits your dog's lifestyle and your household routine. We're here to help you choose the right prevention plan.