Chewable flea treatments can be a mess-free alternative to traditional topical treatments. When selecting the best product for you pet, you may wish to consider whether your furry friend is at risk of exposure to ticks, and whether you are treating dogs or cats.

Both of these chewable treatments kill adult fleas, preventing them from laying eggs and breaking the breeding cycle. Bravecto chews are only available for dogs, while Comfortis is available for both dogs and cats.

Bravecto requires less frequent administration than other flea treatments. It provides 12-week coverage against fleas and most ticks. For protection against the Lone Star tick (Amblyommaamericanum) you may reapply as often as every 8 weeks.

Comfortis chews provide month-long coverage against fleas but do not kill ticks.

Bravecto is safe for use on dogs and puppies 6 months of age and older, and weighing a minimum of 4.4 lbs(2kg). Comfortis may be used on slightly younger dogs, from 14 weeks, but they must weight a minimum of 5lbs (2.3kg). Comfortis is suitable for cats from 14 weeks weighing at least 4.1 lbs (1.9 kg).

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.