Recommended Roundworm Medications for Cats

Roundworms commonly occur among cats and kittens. In fact, according to Dr. Holly Nash of Doctors Foster and Smith, roundworms are the most common intestinal parasite that affect dogs and cats. Cats can contract roundworms through a number of methods, including eating infected stool and receiving them from the mother while they are still in the womb. Roundworms live in the small intestine and cause diarrhea, vomiting and other symptoms. Fortunately, roundworms are often easy to eliminate with the help of certain medications.

  1. Milbemycin Oxime

    • Milbemycin oxime is a popular heartworm prevention medication, but treats intestinal parasites, including roundworms, as well, states Dr. Dawn Ruben of the Pet Place website. Milbemycin oxime also treats other intestinal parasites, such as hookworms and certain whipworms. You should use this medication only on cats that are at least six weeks of age and weigh no less than 1 1/2 lbs. While generally safe, milbemycin oxime can cause side effects in some animals. Milbemycin oxime is a prescription drug that is only available through veterinarians.

    Selamectin

    • Nash states that selamectin is another effective treatment for roundworms in cats. Along with feline roundworms, this drug also eliminates fleas, ticks, hookworms, ear mites and sarcoptic mange. Selamectin works by attacking the nervous systems of worms and other parasites, which ultimately leads to their death. This topically applied medicine absorbs into the body and circulates through the bloodstream. Available exclusively through veterinarians, selamectin is only for use on cats at least eight weeks of age.

    Pyrantel Pamoate

    • According to Ruben, pyrantel pamoate is one of the most commonly used drugs to eliminate roundworms in cats. You can use pyrantel pamoate alone or in combination with another drug called praziquantel. Use pyrantel pamoate on cats older than four weeks of age and that weigh at least 1 1/2 lbs. This drug affects the nervous systems of parasites and typically causes paralysis and death among them. Pyrantel pamoate is generally safe; however, side effects, such as vomiting, are possible.

    Imidacloprid and Moxidectin

    • According to Nash, imidacloprid and moxidectin are combined in a popular product that treats feline roundworms. These medications treat external parasites, such as fleas and ticks, along with internal parasites, including hookworms and whipworms. This topically applied product spreads throughout the oils in the skin---it does not enter the cat's blood stream. Cats that use this product should weigh at least 2 lbs. and should be nine weeks of age or older.