If your veterinarian has recommended Interceptor Plus — or you're researching heartworm and dewormer options for your dog — you're in the right place. This guide covers everything Canadian dog owners need to know about Interceptor Plus: how it works, what it protects against, how to dose by weight, and how to get it legally in Canada.
What Is Interceptor Plus?
Interceptor Plus (milbemycin oxime / praziquantel) is a prescription-only, once-monthly chewable tablet for dogs and puppies. It is manufactured by Elanco and is one of the most comprehensive broad-spectrum parasite prevention medications available in Canada. A single tablet protects against heartworm disease and five types of intestinal worms simultaneously.
What Does Interceptor Plus Protect Against?
Interceptor Plus treats and controls the following parasites:
- Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) — prevention of heartworm disease transmitted by mosquitoes
- Roundworms (Toxocara canis, Toxascaris leonina) — treatment and control
- Hookworms (Ancylostoma caninum) — treatment and control
- Whipworms (Trichuris vulpis) — treatment and control
- Tapeworms (Taenia pisiformis) — treatment and control
This makes Interceptor Plus one of the few monthly tablets that addresses both heartworm prevention and intestinal deworming in a single dose — a significant convenience for pet owners and a strong recommendation from many Canadian veterinarians.
How Does Interceptor Plus Work?
Interceptor Plus contains two active ingredients that work together:
- Milbemycin oxime — disrupts nerve and muscle function in parasites, killing heartworm larvae (L3 and L4 stages) and intestinal worms
- Praziquantel — causes severe spasms and paralysis in tapeworm cells, leading to their disintegration and elimination
Together, these ingredients provide broad-spectrum coverage with a single monthly chew.
Dosing by Weight: Which Colour Is Right for My Dog?
Interceptor Plus comes in four weight-based strengths, each colour-coded for easy identification:
| Colour | Dog Weight | Milbemycin Oxime | Praziquantel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🟠 Orange | 0.9 – 3.6 kg | 2.3 mg | 22.8 mg |
| 🟢 Green | 3.7 – 11.3 kg | 5.75 mg | 57 mg |
| 🟡 Yellow | 11.4 – 22.7 kg | 11.5 mg | 114 mg |
| 🔵 Blue | 22.8 – 45.4 kg | 23 mg | 228 mg |
Always select the strength based on your dog's current body weight. If your dog falls between sizes, consult your veterinarian.
Is Interceptor Plus Safe?
Interceptor Plus is safe for dogs and puppies 6 weeks of age and older, weighing at least 0.9 kg. It has been extensively studied and is well-tolerated by most dogs. As with any medication, side effects are possible — the most commonly reported include vomiting, depression/lethargy, ataxia, anorexia, diarrhea, convulsions, weakness, and hypersalivation. These are uncommon. Always consult your veterinarian if you have concerns.
How Often Should I Give Interceptor Plus?
Interceptor Plus is administered once monthly. For heartworm prevention in Canada, it should be given:
- Within one month of your dog's first exposure to mosquitoes in spring
- Monthly throughout mosquito season
- Until one month after the last mosquito exposure in fall
- Year-round administration is also safe and recommended by many vets for consistent intestinal parasite control
Do I Need a Prescription for Interceptor Plus in Canada?
Yes. Interceptor Plus is a prescription-only veterinary medication in Canada. This means a licensed Canadian veterinarian must have examined your dog and established a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR) before issuing a prescription. We do not provide veterinary diagnoses or issue prescriptions — your vet does.
Once you have a valid prescription, you can submit it here and we will process your order and ship directly to your door across Canada.
Why Buy Interceptor Plus Per Tablet?
At PetMedsToYourHome.ca, we sell Interceptor Plus per tablet — so you only pay for exactly what your dog needs. Whether your vet recommends a seasonal course or year-round protection, you're never locked into buying more than necessary. Pricing starts from just $5.68/tablet for small dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I give Interceptor Plus to my puppy?
Yes — it is safe for puppies 6 weeks of age and older weighing at least 0.9 kg.
Does Interceptor Plus cover fleas or ticks?
No. Interceptor Plus does not protect against fleas or ticks. If your dog needs flea and tick coverage as well, speak to your vet about combining it with a flea/tick preventive.
Can I give Interceptor Plus to my cat?
No. Interceptor Plus is formulated for dogs only and should never be given to cats.
What if my dog misses a dose?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, then resume the monthly schedule. Do not double-dose.
Is Interceptor Plus available without a prescription in Canada?
No. It is a prescription-only medication in Canada. A valid veterinary prescription is required.
Ready to order Interceptor Plus for your dog?
Shop Interceptor Plus → — Submit your prescription and we'll ship directly to you across Canada.
