Interceptor Spectrum Chews Large Blue

Short-dated: 6p expiry: Feb, 2024

Interceptor Spectrum Chews Large Blue is a tasty monthly chew which protects your dog against nasty worms such as heartworm, roundworm, whipworm, hookworm, and tapeworm. Giving tablets to dogs can be frustrating, however, Interceptor Spectrum Chews Large Blue come in a tasty chew with real chicken that dogs love. In fact, 95% of dogs like the taste of Interceptor so much that they eat it straight from the hand! Interceptor Spectrum Chews Large Blue are suitable for larger sized dogs from 22-45kg. The key features of Interceptor Spectrum Chews Large Blue include:

• Suitable for larger sized dogs from 22-45kg.
• Regular monthly dosing protects against heartworm in dogs and puppies as young as 2 weeks of age.
• Prevents infestation from intestinal worms, including roundworm, whipworm and hookworm.
• Protects against Hydatid tapeworm which is potentially lethal to humans.
• Active ingredients: milbemycin oxime and praziquantel.

Interceptor Spectrum Chews Large Blue can be safely used in puppies from 2 weeks of age, breeding males and females, pregnant and lactating females, and in Collies sensitive to ivermectin. If an animal with adult heartworm infection (and therefore circulating microfilariae) is given Interceptor Spectrum Chews, a transient shock-like reaction can occur. To avoid this, dogs should be tested for adult heartworm, and treated if necessary, before starting Interceptor Spectrum Chews.

Heartworm Life Cycle

After a bite from an infected mosquito, heartworm larvae migrate through the tissue. After 3 months, they enter the bloodstream and end up in the pulmonary artery. Left untreated, larvae can grow into adult worms up to 30cm in length in just over 6 months - leading to heart, lung, liver and kidney damage.

How to tell if your dog has worms

Dogs are constantly exposed to intestinal worms, even before they are born through the placenta. Puppies under 6 months of age need to be wormed more frequently than adults. Unwormed puppies are at risk of developing gastrointestinal problems like diarrhoea and vomiting, poor growth, anaemia and even death. To avoid this they should be wormed every 2 weeks from 2 to 12 weeks of age, then monthly until they are at least 6 months old. Worms are one of the most common issues impacting dogs but can often be difficult to notice until your dog’s health is already at risk. The more common worms infecting dogs are heartworms, roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms and whipworms. Here are the top 8 things to look for that may indicate your dog has worms.

1. Coughing: Increased coughing is a known symptom of some worms, particularly advanced cases of heartworm.

2. Worms or eggs in the faeces: While not all kinds of worms are visible to the naked eye, many are so it is worthwhile having a look.

3. Worms in vomit: Same as above, it is worthwhile having a look.

4. Scratching bottom along floor: Dogs often do this when itchy or irritated. While this can be caused by various things, worms is a possibility.

5. Bloated stomach: This is a more common side effect noticeable in puppies.

6. Food thieves: Worms steal food from their hosts so one noticeable symptom may be that your dog has lost weight or appears to be much hungrier than usual.

7. Diarrhoea: This can be another symptom of worms, particularly if the diarrhoea has blood in it.

8. Dull coat or loss of hair: While it varies between different breeds, a good sign of a healthy dog is a thick and shiny coat of hair. If you notice it appearing more dull or dry or significantly thinning out, this may be a symptom of worms.

If you think your dog has worms, speak to your vet to seek immediate treatment. Remember, prevention is better than a cure so make sure your pooch is up to date with his or her worming tablets! Looking for some treats to encourage and reward your dog for taking his or her medication? Check out our range of gourmet dog treats here!