Side Effects of Drontal in Felines

Drontal is a medication that is used to treat parasitic diseases in cats. Drontal is effective in controlling hookworms, roundworms, and the most common type of tapeworm (Dipylidium), which is spread from cat to cat by fleas. Drontal is a prescription drug and can only be obtained by with a prescription from a veterinarian. Drontal has been associated with some side effects in cats.

  1. Allergic Reaction

    • Drontal can cause an allergic reaction in some cats with a hypersensitivity to the drug. The symptoms of an allergic reaction may include hives, swelling of the lips, swelling of the tongue, difficulty breathing and wheezing. Cats that have an allergic reaction may need emergency medical treatment, as this can be a life-threatening condition. For this reason, Drontal should never be used in cats with a known sensitivity to the drug.

    Gastrointestinal Effects

    • Drontal is relatively safe and has few incidents of side effects in cats. However, some gastrointestinal side effects can occur with its use. These side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and lethargy. Some cats also experience excessive salivation. These side effects may decrease over time with extended use of the drug.

    Pain and Swelling

    • Drontal is available in table form and in an injectable form. A small number of cats that receive the injectable dose of medicine have adverse effects after the medicine is administered. In cats, the maximum injectable dose is 0.6 ml and is usually given once. Some cats experience pain upon injection, inflammation and swelling at the injectione site. Your veterinarian will determine how many injections your cat will need, based on the condition for which he is being treated.