Using tapeworm tabs for cats is an easy way to get rid of the most common intestinal parasites in cats. Tapeworm tabs can be bought over the counter, so you don’t need a prescription. The side effects of tapeworm tabs are mild and occur very rarely. Therefore, the use of tapeworm tabs is safe in cats, especially if you respect the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Tapeworm Tabs for Cats
Tapeworm tabs for cats help treat your pet of tapeworms. Tapeworms are the most common intestinal parasites in cats. Dipylidium caninum and Taenia taeniaeformis are tapeworms which affect both cats and kittens.
Tapeworm tabs for cats contain Praziquantel as the main active substance. Praziquantel is an efficient dewormer that helps fight tapeworms. Tablets contain 23 mg of Praziquantel.
Deworming needs to be performed both as curing treatments in infected pets and as preventative measures. It is recommended that you administer your cat medication to prevent parasitic infestations at least twice a year.
Administration of Tapeworm Tabs in Cats
Tapeworm tabs are designed for oral administration. They can be given separately or administered together with the meals. If you decide to mix the drug with food, you should give your cat less food than usual.
The recommended dosage of tapeworm medication varies depending on the cat’s age and weight. Kittens and cats that weigh less than 4 lbs. should get half a tablet. Cats that weigh between 5 and 11 lbs should be given 1 tablet while cats over 11 lbs. should receive 1 and a half. Tapeworm tabs can be administered both to cats and kittens older than 6 weeks. If your cat is younger than 6 weeks and has got tapeworms, you should consult your veterinarian.
Side Effects and Warnings for Tapeworm Tabs
Tapeworm tabs are typically safe for cats. The side effects are mild and consist of salivation and diarrhea. If your cat is weak or suffering from other diseases, it is recommended that you consult your veterinarian before starting the treatment. If the cat does not get the recommended amount of Praziquantel, the treatment might not be efficient in eliminating all the parasites.
Tapeworm Infection in Cats
Cats can get tapeworms after eating fleas and small rodents, which carry tapeworm larvae. Once the parasite gets into the cat’s body, it settles in the intestine affecting the cat’s digestive function and causing health problems. The parasite actually feeds on the cat and prevents him from getting properly nourished. The cat will lose weight and feel weakened.
Tapeworms can grow to be several inches long. They produce eggs which are released by the cat in the feces. Sometimes you can spot the eggs around the cat’s anus or in the cat’s bedding. The eggs are small and white or yellowish. When they dry, they look like small rice grains or sesame seeds. You should check your cat regularly for parasitic infections. It is also recommended to treat him for fleas and prevent him from getting into contact with rodents to prevent a tapeworm infection.