Kitten Tapeworm Treatment

Tapeworms are parasites that can enter the body of a kitten or cat by eating or swallowing fleas or small rodents that are carrying the parasite's larvae. Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea. These worms are comprised of small segments that can break off as they grow inside the kitten's intestines and later pass through the body in the feces. Tapeworms can range anywhere from 4 to 24 inches in length. It is critical to treat and destroy tapeworms in order to prevent transmissions to humans and avoid damage to the kitten's body. If not treated, the parasite will continue to feed on the kitten and absorb its nutrients, eventually leading to debilitation.

  1. How to Spot a Tapeworm

    • Tapeworm pieces can be found in the hair near the kitten's anus and underneath the tail. They look like dried, white to cream-colored grains of rice and collect in groups. However, some tapeworm species will break off into segments that are too small to be seen by the human eye.

      Tapeworms may also be diagnosed by seeing the worms moving around in the kitten's anus or feces. Kittens may bite or lick the anus, or drag themselves on the floor in response to the itching.

      If your kitten is showing these symptoms or appears to be weak or debilitated, consult your veterinarian before administering any type of medication.

    Tests and Species of Tapeworms

    • The tapeworm species includes Diplydium Caninum, Taenia, Echinococcus and Mesocestoids. Your veterinarian will perform a physical examination of your kitten and look for tapeworms in the anal sac or feces. If no evidence of tapeworm segments is found in these areas, the vet may use a fecal sample for lab testing. False negatives can occur, although most test results are conclusive.

    Treatment

    • Treatment, either by injection or oral medication, is given on an outpatient basis. Drontal tablets and Felex-Plus Paste are examples of the medication used to treat tapeworms in kittens and cats. Pyrantel Pamoate or Praziquantel are the active ingredients in tapeworm medication that should be taken orally after 1 month of age and more than 1.5 lbs. in weight. Praziquatel is found in Droncit and Tradewinds Tapeworm tablets, and the dosage is determined by number of tablets per body weight. Some tapeworm medications, such as Praziquatel and Cestex, cannot be used for kittens under 6 weeks of age.

      It is critical to finish the full course of prescribed medication to make sure that the tapeworms are completely removed from the body.

      Praziquantel used to require a prescription from veterinarians, however now it is available at online pet pharmacies and most pet supply stores. It is sold under the brand name "Tape Worm Tabs." Cats and kittens over 6 weeks old that are 4 lbs. and under should receive 1/2 tablet. Give the tablets directly to the kitten or crush the tablet and place it in food.

    Natural Remedies for Kittens

    • Natural remedies are recommended by veterinarians for kittens under 6 weeks of age. Wormwood, neem and cloves may help in the prevention or treatment of tapeworms in kittens. Wormwood cleanses the blood and digestive tract, cloves contain strong detoxifying agents, and the properties of neem may act as a natural repellent.

      Natural medications such as HomeoPet Worm Clear are safe for kittens of all ages and treat the tapeworm infestation.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The best form of protection against tapeworms is to keep your kitten free of flea infestation as it can be caused from the ingestion of flea larvae. Keep your kitten away from dead animals and garbage to help prevent the ingestion of tapeworms. If your kitten is infested with tapeworms, make sure to treat the environment in which your animal lives as well as the kitten in order to prevent recurring infestations.

      Frequent visits to the veterinarian are crucial to the prevention of health problems such as tapeworms. Kittens should be taken to the vet every three to four weeks until they are 4 months old.