Feline Deworming Medicines

Feline deworming medication is important to a cat's health because parasites can cause anemia, reduced nutrient absorption or may be passed on to humans. Most felines need monthly deworming medicines to prevent the growth of some parasites. Though there are over-the-counter deworming medications available, understanding how these medications work and speaking to your veterinarian before choosing a medication will ensure your cat has the best health possible.

  1. Drug Types

    • Before giving your feline a deworming medicine, it is important to note that not all medications are equivalent. There is a broad spectrum of parasites a cat may contract, and the medication you use should treat the specific type of parasite your cat has. To determine the type of parasite, your veterinarian needs to examine a fecal sample. Your veterinarian will then make a specific suggestion about what type of deworming medication you require.

    Kittens

    • All cats under 1 year of age need to undergo a cycle of deworming medication to kill intestinal parasites present from birth. Your kitten needs to receive two to three treatments of a deworming drug, most commonly pyrantel pamoate. Your kitten would receive the medication every two to three weeks until the cycle is completed. If your kitten's fecal sample tested positive before you treated it with dewormer, you should test a second fecal sample after the dewormer to ensure the parasites are no longer present. Get your adult cat tested once a year for parasites throughout its life.

    Heartworm Prevention

    • One type of dewormer your feline needs on a monthly basis is heartworm prevention medication. Heartworms refers to a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes. It is difficult to diagnose and does not have a treatment once your cat contracts it. Indoor cats are more susceptible to heartworms than outdoor cats, and even one or two worms can be fatal. Only your veterinarian can prescribe heartworm medication. This type of medication may also treat intestinal parasites, fleas and ear mites depending on the product.

    Safety Concerns

    • Exercise caution when using deworming medicine if your cat is already very sick. The drug companies that manufacture dewormer medication do not test their products on severely sick animals, and unintended side effects may be possible. Some medications may not be appropriate for kittens under a certain age. Make sure that you consult your veterinarian before applying it to your cat.