Discovering that your beloved dog has vomited after taking their regular NexGard flea and tick preventative can be alarming. As pet owners, we want to ensure our furry friends are healthy and protected from parasites, so understanding why this happened and what steps to take next is crucial. This comprehensive guide will explore the potential causes of vomiting after NexGard administration, what to monitor for, and when to seek veterinary advice.
Understanding NexGard and its Purpose
NexGard is a popular, chewable medication designed to protect dogs from fleas and ticks. Its active ingredient, afoxolaner, works by interfering with the nervous system of these parasites, leading to their paralysis and death. It’s generally considered safe and effective, but, like all medications, it can sometimes cause side effects.
NexGard is administered orally, typically once a month. Its palatability is usually high, making it easy to give to most dogs. However, even with its appealing flavor, some dogs may experience adverse reactions. Knowing what to expect and how to respond is essential for responsible pet ownership.
Potential Causes of Vomiting After NexGard
Vomiting after taking NexGard can stem from various factors. While NexGard is generally well-tolerated, some dogs are more susceptible to side effects than others. Identifying the potential cause is the first step in determining the appropriate course of action.
Gastrointestinal Sensitivity
Some dogs have more sensitive stomachs than others. The active ingredient in NexGard, afoxolaner, or the inactive ingredients that make the chew palatable, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to nausea and vomiting. This is particularly true for dogs with a history of digestive issues.
A sudden change in diet or the introduction of a new medication can sometimes upset a dog’s digestive system. If your dog already has a sensitive stomach, any new substance, including NexGard, could trigger a vomiting episode.
Administration on an Empty Stomach
Administering NexGard on an empty stomach can increase the likelihood of vomiting. When there’s no food to buffer the medication, it can irritate the stomach lining more easily. Following the manufacturer’s instructions and giving NexGard with or shortly after a meal can help minimize this risk.
Always try to give NexGard with food or immediately after your dog has eaten. This can help reduce the chances of stomach upset.
Dosage Issues
Administering an incorrect dosage of NexGard can also lead to vomiting. It’s crucial to use the correct chew size based on your dog’s weight. Giving too much medication can overload the system and cause adverse reactions, while giving too little might not provide adequate protection against fleas and ticks.
Always consult your veterinarian to ensure you’re using the correct dosage for your dog. Never guess or estimate the dose.
Underlying Health Conditions
In some cases, vomiting after taking NexGard could be a sign of an underlying health condition. Dogs with pre-existing gastrointestinal problems, liver disease, or kidney disease may be more prone to experiencing side effects from medications.
If your dog has a history of medical issues, it’s important to discuss the potential risks of NexGard with your veterinarian beforehand.
Allergic Reaction (Rare)
While rare, an allergic reaction to NexGard is possible. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from mild (such as hives or facial swelling) to severe (such as difficulty breathing). Vomiting can be a sign of a mild allergic reaction, but it’s crucial to watch for other, more serious symptoms.
If you suspect your dog is having an allergic reaction to NexGard, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Monitoring Your Dog After Vomiting
After your dog vomits after taking NexGard, careful monitoring is essential. Note the frequency and severity of the vomiting, as well as any other symptoms your dog is exhibiting. This information will be helpful for your veterinarian if you need to seek professional advice.
Frequency and Severity of Vomiting
Is it a one-time occurrence, or is your dog vomiting repeatedly? The frequency and severity of the vomiting can provide clues about the underlying cause. A single episode of vomiting may be less concerning than persistent vomiting, which could indicate a more serious problem.
Note the appearance of the vomit. Is it just food, or does it contain blood or bile? The presence of blood or bile can indicate irritation or inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
Other Symptoms to Watch For
In addition to vomiting, monitor your dog for other symptoms, such as:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration (signs include dry gums and decreased skin elasticity)
- Excessive drooling
- Tremors or seizures
- Difficulty breathing
Any of these symptoms, in combination with vomiting, warrant a call to your veterinarian.
Hydration Status
Vomiting can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous for dogs. Ensure your dog has access to fresh water and encourage them to drink. If your dog is unable to keep water down, consider offering small amounts of electrolyte solutions (such as unflavored Pedialyte) to help replenish lost fluids.
If your dog shows signs of dehydration, such as dry gums or decreased skin elasticity, contact your veterinarian immediately.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
While a single episode of vomiting may not be cause for alarm, there are certain situations when you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
Repeated Vomiting
If your dog vomits multiple times after taking NexGard, it’s important to seek veterinary advice. Repeated vomiting can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be harmful.
Presence of Blood or Bile in Vomit
The presence of blood or bile in your dog’s vomit can indicate a more serious problem, such as inflammation or ulceration in the gastrointestinal tract. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice either of these substances in your dog’s vomit.
Other Concerning Symptoms
If your dog is exhibiting other concerning symptoms, such as lethargy, loss of appetite, diarrhea, dehydration, tremors, seizures, or difficulty breathing, in addition to vomiting, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention right away. These symptoms could indicate a serious underlying problem.
History of Medical Conditions
If your dog has a history of medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal problems, liver disease, or kidney disease, it’s especially important to contact your veterinarian if they vomit after taking NexGard. Dogs with pre-existing health issues may be more prone to experiencing adverse reactions from medications.
Steps to Take After Vomiting
If your dog vomits after taking NexGard, there are several steps you can take to help them feel better and determine the best course of action.
Withhold Food
After your dog vomits, it’s generally a good idea to withhold food for a few hours to allow their stomach to settle. This can help prevent further irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
Offer Small Amounts of Water
While withholding food is recommended, it’s important to ensure your dog stays hydrated. Offer small amounts of water frequently, rather than allowing them to gulp down large quantities at once.
Monitor Your Dog Closely
Continue to monitor your dog closely for any other symptoms, such as lethargy, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Keep track of the frequency and severity of the vomiting, as well as any other changes in their behavior or condition.
Contact Your Veterinarian (If Necessary)
If the vomiting persists, or if your dog is exhibiting any other concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian for advice. They can help determine the underlying cause of the vomiting and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Alternative Flea and Tick Preventatives
If your dog consistently vomits after taking NexGard, it may be necessary to consider alternative flea and tick preventatives. There are many different options available, each with its own set of benefits and risks.
Topical Medications
Topical flea and tick medications are applied directly to the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. These medications work by being absorbed into the skin and spreading throughout the body. Some popular topical options include Frontline, Advantage, and Revolution.
Oral Medications (Different Active Ingredients)
There are other oral flea and tick preventatives that contain different active ingredients than NexGard. These medications may be better tolerated by dogs who are sensitive to afoxolaner. Examples include Bravecto (fluralaner) and Simparica (sarolaner).
Flea and Tick Collars
Flea and tick collars are another option for preventing parasites. These collars release medication over time, providing continuous protection. Seresto collars are a popular choice, offering protection for up to eight months.
Before switching to a different flea and tick preventative, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian. They can help you choose the best option for your dog based on their individual needs and health status.
Preventative Measures for the Future
While vomiting after taking NexGard can be concerning, there are several preventative measures you can take to minimize the risk of it happening again in the future.
Administer NexGard with Food
As mentioned earlier, administering NexGard with food can help reduce the likelihood of stomach upset. Make sure to give the chew with or shortly after a meal.
Split the Dose (Consult Your Vet First)
In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend splitting the NexGard chew into smaller pieces and giving them over a longer period of time. This can help reduce the concentration of the medication in the stomach at any one time. However, always consult your veterinarian before splitting the dose.
Consider a Different Formulation
If your dog consistently vomits after taking NexGard, talk to your veterinarian about switching to a different formulation or preventative. There are many different options available, and one may be a better fit for your dog.
Rule Out Underlying Health Conditions
If your dog frequently experiences gastrointestinal issues, it’s important to rule out any underlying health conditions. Your veterinarian can perform diagnostic tests to identify any potential problems and recommend appropriate treatment.
Dealing with a dog who vomits after taking medication can be stressful. By understanding the potential causes, monitoring your dog closely, and seeking veterinary advice when necessary, you can help ensure their health and well-being. Remember, your veterinarian is your best resource for addressing any concerns you have about your dog’s health.
Why did my dog throw up after taking NexGard?
Vomiting is a potential side effect of NexGard, although it’s not extremely common. It can be due to several reasons, including sensitivity to one of the ingredients, an underlying health issue that’s exacerbated by the medication, or simply taking the medication on an empty stomach. It’s also possible your dog might have eaten something prior to or shortly after administration that disagreed with them, leading to the upset stomach.
Observe your dog closely for any other symptoms like diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, or abdominal pain. If the vomiting continues or worsens, or if you notice any other concerning signs, it’s important to contact your veterinarian promptly. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment or alternative parasite prevention methods.
Is vomiting after NexGard a serious concern?
In most cases, a single episode of vomiting after taking NexGard is not a cause for immediate alarm. It’s often a mild and temporary reaction that resolves on its own within a few hours. However, persistent vomiting, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like blood in the vomit, weakness, or changes in behavior, warrants immediate veterinary attention. These could indicate a more serious problem.
Keep a close watch on your dog’s overall condition and behavior. Dehydration can become a concern if the vomiting is frequent or prolonged. Ensure your dog has access to fresh water and try offering small amounts of clear liquids like unflavored Pedialyte or bone broth. If your dog is unable to keep fluids down, seek veterinary help to prevent dehydration.
Should I give my dog another dose of NexGard if they threw up shortly after taking it?
Generally, if your dog vomits within two hours of taking NexGard, it’s likely that they didn’t absorb the medication properly. In this case, contacting your veterinarian is crucial. They can advise on whether to administer another dose and, if so, when and how to do it safely. Do not administer another dose without veterinary guidance, as this could lead to an overdose or other adverse reactions.
Your vet may recommend waiting a few days before attempting another dose, or they might suggest an alternative method of parasite prevention. They might also want to examine your dog to rule out any underlying health conditions that could be contributing to the vomiting. Following your vet’s advice will ensure your dog remains protected from parasites without jeopardizing their health.
What can I do to prevent my dog from vomiting after taking NexGard in the future?
One of the simplest ways to minimize the risk of vomiting is to administer NexGard with food. Giving it with a meal can help buffer the medication and reduce the likelihood of stomach upset. You can also try breaking the chewable tablet into smaller pieces and mixing it with your dog’s food to make it easier to digest. Avoid giving NexGard on an empty stomach.
If your dog has a history of sensitivity or gastrointestinal issues, discuss this with your veterinarian before administering NexGard. They may recommend a different parasite prevention medication or suggest pre-treating with an antiemetic (anti-vomiting medication) to help prevent nausea and vomiting. It’s also important to ensure your dog isn’t eating anything unusual or potentially toxic around the time they take the medication.
Are some dogs more prone to vomiting after taking NexGard than others?
Yes, some dogs are more susceptible to experiencing side effects like vomiting after taking NexGard. Dogs with sensitive stomachs, a history of gastrointestinal problems, or certain underlying health conditions may be more likely to react negatively to the medication. Breed predispositions or individual sensitivities can also play a role.
Puppies, especially those with immature digestive systems, and older dogs may also be more vulnerable. If you know your dog has a sensitive stomach, discuss this with your veterinarian before starting them on NexGard. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits and recommend the most appropriate parasite prevention strategy for your dog’s individual needs.
How long does the vomiting typically last after a dog takes NexGard?
If your dog vomits after taking NexGard, it usually resolves within a few hours. In many cases, it is a one-time occurrence, and your dog will return to normal within a short period. However, it’s important to monitor your dog closely to ensure the vomiting doesn’t persist or worsen.
If the vomiting continues for more than 12-24 hours, or if your dog exhibits other symptoms like lethargy, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian. Prolonged vomiting can lead to dehydration and other complications, so prompt veterinary attention is essential to address the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
What are the alternative flea and tick prevention options if my dog can’t tolerate NexGard?
Several alternative flea and tick prevention options are available if your dog doesn’t tolerate NexGard well. These include topical treatments, other oral medications with different active ingredients, and even flea and tick collars. Some topical medications are applied directly to the skin and offer protection for a month or longer.
Talk to your veterinarian about the best alternative for your dog. They can consider your dog’s individual health needs, lifestyle, and potential sensitivities to recommend the most effective and safe option. They can also discuss the pros and cons of each alternative and help you make an informed decision about parasite prevention.