NexGard Spectra for Cats

NexGard Spectra is a monthly spot-on treatment for cats that combines flea, tick, mite, heartworm, and intestinal worm protection — including tapeworms — in a single application. It's manufactured by Boehringer Ingelheim and registered under Australia's APVMA for veterinary use. Smartway Pet Supplies ships genuine, Australian-sourced NexGard Spectra directly to customers in the US and Canada.

What NexGard Spectra Protects Against

A single monthly application covers fleas, ticks (including black-legged/deer ticks, American dog ticks, lone star ticks, and brown dog tick), ear mites, heartworm, roundworms, hookworms, lungworms, and tapeworms — the broadest coverage in our cat range in one product.

How NexGard Spectra Works

NexGard Spectra combines three active ingredients in one dose:

• Esafoxolaner — an isoxazoline compound that kills fleas, ticks, and ear mites by disrupting their nervous system.
• Eprinomectin — prevents heartworm disease and treats roundworms, hookworms, and lungworms.
• Praziquantel — eliminates tapeworm infections.

Together, these cover both external and internal parasites in one monthly treatment, without a separate wormer.

No Vet Prescription Required

In Australia, NexGard Spectra is sold over the counter. Smartway Pet Supplies ships genuine Australian stock directly to customers in the US and Canada, so no local prescription is required to order — you're purchasing from an Australian retailer and importing the product yourself. Customers are responsible for ensuring their order complies with import rules in their destination country. See our page on how this works for more detail.

Choosing the Right Size

• Purple (Small) — cats 1.8–5.3 lbs (0.8–2.5 kg), including kittens 8 weeks and older
• Yellow (Large) — cats 5.5–16.5 lbs (2.5–7.5 kg)

For cats over 16.5 lbs, two applications from the appropriate weight ranges may be used — always dose to your cat's current body weight.

How to Apply

1. Twist and remove the protective cap, then pull back the plunger slightly.
2. Part the fur at the back of the neck, between the skull and shoulder blades, until skin is visible.
3. Place the tip on the skin and press the plunger to dispense the full dose in one spot.
4. Let the area dry before allowing your cat to groom or touch the site.

Apply once a month, year-round, for continuous protection.

Safety and Side Effects

NexGard Spectra is approved for kittens 8 weeks and older weighing at least 1.8 lbs. Side effects are uncommon but may include mild, temporary skin irritation at the application site or occasional digestive upset. Use with caution in cats with a history of neurological conditions, and consult your vet if your cat is pregnant, lactating, or being bred. Contact your veterinarian if any symptoms persist.

NexGard Spectra vs Other Cat Treatments

• Revolution Plus — monthly spot-on covering fleas, ticks, heartworm, ear mites, and intestinal worms, but not tapeworms.
• Bravecto — extended-duration spot-on giving up to 2–3 months of flea and tick protection per dose, for owners who prefer less frequent dosing.

NexGard Spectra is the only option in our range that combines flea, tick, heartworm, and tapeworm coverage in a single monthly dose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a prescription to buy NexGard Spectra for cats?
No — SmartWay Pet Supplies ships NexGard Spectra as genuine Australian stock directly to the US and Canada, without requiring a local prescription at checkout.

Does NexGard Spectra treat tapeworms?
Yes — praziquantel in the formula treats and controls tapeworm infections, alongside fleas, ticks, mites, heartworm, roundworms, hookworms, and lungworms.

How often do I apply it?
Once a month, year-round. For heartworm prevention, continue treatment for at least three months after your cat's last potential mosquito exposure.

Can kittens use NexGard Spectra?
Yes — it's approved for kittens 8 weeks and older, weighing at least 1.8 lbs (0.8 kg).

For animal use only. Use only as directed on the packaging. Speak with your veterinarian for medical advice specific to your cat.