Oral treatments, such as chewables, are a popular alternative to traditional topicals when it comes to protecting your dog from fleas and ticks. Simparica (Sarolaner) and Bravecto (Fluralaner) are two such products that fight fleas and ticks in similar ways.

When administered as directed, Simparica and Bravecto kill adult fleas on your dog, eliminating them before they can lay eggs, and thus breaking the breeding cycle. They also kill adult ticks including the black-legged tick, American dog tick, brown dog tick and Lone Star tick. In addition, Simparica provides protection against the Gulf Coast tick.

Simparica has a monthly dosage schedule, while Bravecto provides 12-week coverage against fleas and most ticks, and 8 weeks protection against Lone Star ticks.

Simparica may be used on dogs and puppies from 6 months of age, and with a body weight of 2.8 pounds (1.3kg) minimum. Bravecto is safe for use on dogs and puppies 6 months of age and older, and weighing a minimum of 4.4 lbs (2kg). These products are for canine use only should not be given to cats.

Top tip: Fleas and ticks can carry nasty diseases, but protecting your pet doesn’t need to be difficult. Use our comparison chart to weigh up the pros and cons of the most popular products.