Over the Counter Dewormer for Cats

Worms in cats are a common health problem because of their tendency to eat a wide variety of things both accidentally and on purpose. Fortunately, worm infections are easily detectable and treated. Cat owners should consult veterinarians for an accurate diagnosis, and then they have the option to choose from a variety of over the counter dewormers to treat their cat.

  1. Types of Worms

    • Tapeworms, roundworms and hookworms are the most prevalent worms in cats. Cats contract these worms when they consume infected food. Roundworms can be found in a mother cat's milk and as a result, are the most common worm found in kittens. On the other hand, tapeworms are the most common worm found in adults because adult cats groom themselves often and accidentally swallow tapeworm-carrying fleas in the process. Hookworms are the less common of the three and is usually found in more humid climates.

    Symptoms and Diagnosis

    • Fortunately for cat owners, worm symptoms can be very noticeable which allows for quicker treatment. Kittens infected with roundworms usually have a pot belly appearance as the most prominent symptom accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea and weakness. Roundworms in adults exhibit the same symptoms as a tapeworm infection which are worm segments or eggs in the cat's stool. Hookworms have a more serious effect than the previous two in that it can cause severe weight loss, diarrhea and anemia. Since symptoms among the three types of worms can be relatively similar, a stool sample should be collected and given to a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis.

    Over the Counter Dewormers

    • Each of the three kinds of worms require different deworming treatments. Over the counter dewormers are available for less severe infections. Praziquantel is the only FDA approved over the counter dewormer for tapeworms and is sold under the name Tape Worm Tabs. Medications containing the chemical Piperazine are available for roundworm treatment for both kittens and adults cats. As for hookworms, many over the counter heartworm medications for dogs and cats such as Interceptor also serves to control hookworm infections.

    Side Effects

    • Side effects from over the counter dewormers may appear in some cats. The most common reactions are vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination and shaking, which can be indicative of toxic levels of the medication in the cat's system. A veterinarian should be contacted immediately upon the first sign of any adverse reaction.

    OTC vs. Prescription

    • Serious worm infections should always be treated by veterinarians who will either administer a shot or prescribe a dewormer. Prescription dewormers are often much stronger than their over the counter equivalents, but are considered somewhat safer since they are more closely regulated. One major concern regarding over the counter dewormers is the dosage of the medication since there are generally no guidelines regarding the size and weight of the cat. As a result, these dewormers can be very toxic to cats and sometimes even cause fatalities.