Various Cat Worming Medication

Cats can become infected with several types of worms, some of which can be lethal. Heartworms, tapeworms, roundworms, hookworms and whipworms are all common parasites that can infect cats. To combat this problem, there are several deworming medications on the market, and it can be helpful to understand a little about these products in the event one is prescribed for your cat.

  1. Fenbendazole (Panacur)

    • Fenbedazole is used to treat roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, whipworms and certain types of lungworms. Fenbendazole is often sold under the brand name Panacur, and is available as a liquid, granules or a paste. The granules are prescribed most often, because they are easy to mix in the cat's food, ensuring easy dosing. Fenbendazole is normally sold in small envelopes, and is given for three consecutive days to make sure the parasites have all been killed.

    Praziquantel

    • Praziquantel is a medication that is used to treat tapeworms in cats. The drug is commonly sold under the trade names Droncit and Drontal. It works by loosening the tapeworm's attachment to the intestinal wall, and allows the cat to pass the worm in its stool. Praziquantel is normally given as a tablet, and is is available in 23mg, 34mg, 136mg and 600mg. Dosing depends on the weight of the animal.

    Ivermectin

    • Ivermectin is one of the most common drugs used to treat and prevent heartworms in dogs and cats. Ivermectin is in many pre-packaged heartworm preventative medications, such as Heartgard. The drug is administered as a chewable treat in this form, but it is also available in liquid form and is used to treat mange and roundworms in addition to heartworms. Dosing is administered by weight of the cat. The liquid dose is 0.012 mg per pound, and the chewable tablets come in several sizes.

    Milbemycin Oxime (Interceptor)

    • Milbemycin Oxime is used to treat and prevent heartworms, roundworms, hookworms and whipworms. The drug is commonly known under the trade name Interceptor, and is manufactured by Novartis Animal Health. Interceptor is available in tablet form, and is produced in 2.3mg, 5.75mg, 11.5mg and 23mg tablets. Dosing is dependent on the weight of the cat, and should not be given to kittens under 6 weeks of age.

    Selamectin (Revolution)

    • Selamectin is used to treat and prevent heartworms, hookworms and roundworms in cats. It is also used to treat ear mites, mange and fleas. Selamectin is commonly known under the trade name Revolution, and is manufactured by Pfizer. The drug is available as a liquid, and is administered by applying the liquid to the back of the cat, between the shoulder blades. Dosing is dependent on weight, and Revolution is produced in two sizes. It should not be used on kittens under 8 weeks of age.