What Are the Treatments for Feline Roundworms?

Most cats become infected with roundworms at some point in their lives. Whether obtained as kittens or contracted during adulthood, roundworms are common parasites that live in the intestines of animals. While roundworms can be dangerous to cats if left untreated, they can be eliminated fairly easily with worming medication.

  1. Visit Your Veterinarian

    • The most effective roundworm medications can be obtained by a prescription from your veterinarian. In addition, it is important for your animal to be examined by a veterinarian if you are suspicious that your cat has roundworms. Roundworms can cause weight loss, diarrhea and vomiting, so a veterinary consultation is essential to prevent any secondary problems, such as dehydration.

    Treating Roundworms

    • Most kittens are born with roundworms and contract them from their mothers when they nurse. The only safe wormers to use on kittens under six weeks of age are pyrantel pamoate and praziquantel, also called Strongid and Drontal. Strongid comes in a liquid form, while Drontal is available as pills. Many veterinarians administer strongid because it is easier to give. Kittens need to weigh at least 1.5 pounds before taking this medication.

      For kittens six weeks and older who weight at least a 1.5 pounds, milbemycin oxime, or Interceptor, can be given safely. Interceptor is also used as a heartworm preventive in dogs and cats. Kittens who are at least eight weeks can be given selamectin and emodepside, also called Revolution and Profender, to eliminate their roundworms. Both wormers are topical treatments and are to be placed between the shoulder blades. These medications are advantageous to use in kittens or cats that won't take oral medications. Kittens need to be at least 2.2 pounds to take Profender safely.

      Cats who are at least nine weeks of age and weigh over two pounds can be given Advantage Multi for Cats to eliminate roundworms. Containing imidacloprid and moxidectin, Advantage is a topical treatment and is also effective against terminating and preventing fleas.

    Worming Basics

    • Humans can contract roundworms by ingesting the eggs. Therefore, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands after handling infected stool. After you have treated your cat with worming medication, you may see the worms in the cat's vomit or stool. Remove them from the environment and clean the area. Since most worming medications only kill the adult worms, most need to be repeated in three weeks to ensure that all life cycles of the worm are terminated.