Sentinel Spectrum vs Interceptor Spectrum
We compare the difference between Sentinel vs Interceptor.
The Brands
They have similar looking packaging and names, which can make it a bit difficult distinguishing between the products.
What They Treat
Sentinel Spectrum treats for fleas long-term, controls flea allergy dermatitis, prevents heartworm infection and controls roundworm, whipworm, hookworm & tapeworm. Interceptor Spectrum prevents heartworm infection and controls roundworm, whipworm, hookworm & tapeworm. As you see Interceptor does not treat fleas of any sort, where as Sentinel does. We must note that Sentinel will not kill adult fleas, however it will control flea infestations.
What Is In Them
Sentinel Spectrum contains lufenuron, milbemycin oxime & praziquantel to treat for worms. Interceptor Spectrum cotains milbemycin oxime & praziquantel. Ingredients Treat:
- Lufenuron: Fleas
- Milbemycin oxime: Heartworm, roundworm, whipworm & hookworm
- Praziquantel: Tapeworm
How Old Do Dogs Need To be
Interceptor can be given to puppies from 2 weeks of age. Sentinel can be given to puppies from 6 weeks of age.
How To Administer
Both of these products are chewable tablets that can be given with food or on there own. Both Heartgard and Interceptor should be given to your dog on a monthly basis. Please note: dog should be tested for heartworm before using either of these products.
What Size Dogs
Interceptor Spectrum and Sentinel Spectrum are both color coded the same to match the weight ranges and dosage amounts. The sizes, color and ingredients are as follows:
Product |
Weight Range |
Color Pack |
Lufenuron |
Melbemycin oxime |
Praziquantel |
| Interceptor | 2-10lbs (up to 4kgs) | Orange | None | 2.3 mg | 22.8 mg |
| Sentinel | 2-10lbs (up to 4kgs) | Orange | 46 mg | 2.3 mg | 22.8 mg |
| Interceptor | 11-25lbs (4-11kgs) | Green | None | 5.75 mg | 57 mg |
| Sentinel | 11-25lbs (4-11kgs) | Green | 115 mg | 5.75 mg | 57 mg |
| Interceptor | 26-50lbs (11-22kgs) | Yellow | None | 11.5 mg | 114 mg |
| Sentinel | 26-50lbs (11-22kgs) | Yellow | 230 mg | 11.5 mg | 114 mg |
| Interceptor | 51-100lbs (22-45kgs) | White/Blue | None | 23 mg | 228 mg |
| Sentinel | 51-100lbs (22-45kgs) | White/Blue | 460 mg | 23 mg | 228 mg |
Product Pack Sizes
You can buy Sentinel & Interceptor in a single dose which will treat 1 dog for 1 month, 3 pack which will treat 1 dog for 3 months, 6 pack which will treat 1 dog for 6 months and 12 pack which will treat 1 dog for 12 months.
The Price
Sentinel Spectrum is going to cost you more as it has the flea component in it. If you are already using a flea control, then either of these products can be used in conjunction to it.
Conclusion
Sentinel is the better product as it does treat fleas long term. However it does not treat for adult fleas. If you are using a flea treatment, you will just need to use Interceptor Spectrum to fully cover your dog.
To learn more about Sentinel Spectrum see Sentinel for dogs frequently asked questions and to learn more about Interceptor spectrum see Interceptor for dogs frequently asked questions.
Compare Sentinel vs Interceptor below in this detailed chart with what each product does
Component |
Sentinel Spectrum for Dogs |
Interceptor Spectrum for Dogs |
| Adult Fleas | No | No |
| Flea Eggs | No | No |
| Adult Larvae | Yes | No |
| Flea Allergy Dermatitis | Yes | No |
| Ticks | No | No |
| Heartworm | Yes | Yes |
| Roundworm | Yes | Yes |
| Hookworm | Yes | Yes |
| Whipworm | Yes | Yes |
| Tapeworm | Yes | Yes |
| Sarcoptic Mange | No | No |
| Earmites | No | No |
| Lice | No | No |
| Insects | No | No |
Not for sale to customers in the USA.