Advocate is a monthly spot-on treatment for dogs and cats manufactured by Elanco (formerly Bayer). It contains imidacloprid (kills fleas) and moxidectin (treats and prevents lungworm, roundworm, hookworm, and ear mites). It is the go-to product for lungworm prevention, which is increasingly important in the UK.
Price Comparison (Dogs, 3 Pipettes)
Advocate for medium dogs (4–10kg):
- From your vet: £35–£55
- Online pharmacies: £22–£35
- Saving per 3-pack: £10–£25
Prices by Weight Band
- Small dogs (up to 4kg): £20–£32 for 3 pipettes
- Medium dogs (4–10kg): £22–£35 for 3 pipettes
- Large dogs (10–25kg): £25–£40 for 3 pipettes
- Extra large dogs (25–40kg): £28–£45 for 3 pipettes
What Does Advocate Cover?
- Fleas: Kills adult fleas within 24 hours and prevents reinfestation for a month
- Lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum): The primary reason many vets recommend Advocate. Lungworm is spread by slugs and snails and can be fatal if untreated
- Roundworm and hookworm: Monthly treatment and prevention
- Ear mites: Treatment of ear mite infestations
Not covered: Advocate does not kill ticks or tapeworms. If your dog needs tick protection, you may need an additional product like a Seresto collar or a separate tick treatment.
Advocate for Cats
The cat formulation covers fleas, ear mites, roundworm, hookworm, and lungworm. Available in two weight bands:
- Small cats (up to 4kg): £18–£28 for 3 pipettes
- Large cats (4–8kg): £20–£32 for 3 pipettes
Lungworm: Why It Matters
Lungworm is now found throughout the UK and is spreading northward. Dogs become infected by eating slugs, snails, or frogs — or even just licking grass where slug slime trails are present. Symptoms include coughing, breathing difficulties, and in severe cases, blood clotting problems. Prevention with Advocate (monthly) or Milbemax (monthly) is strongly recommended in endemic areas.
Last updated: March 2026. Sources: VetCost pharmacy price data, VMD product datasheet.