Choosing a Cat Wormer Medicine

Choosing a cat wormer medicine can be easy and tailored to the specific needs of your feline. Various prescription and non-prescription cat wormers are available online and at pet stores.

Causes of Worm Infestation

Feline roundworm is a common illness in nearly all cats. There are three main types of cat worm: tapeworm, hookworm and roundworm. These enter the feline through an intermediary host, such as a flea or tick. Once in the body, they absorb the nutrients around them, resulting in heavy discomfort for the host.

When to Deworm

Frequently worming adult cats every three months generally treats and prevents infestation. New cats should be wormed immediately and two weeks afterwards for best results. Kittens can start treatment at 6 weeks old and then at 8 and 10 weeks. Since kittens commonly obtain worms from their moms, frequent worming can prevent further infestation and other symptoms of tapeworm such as anemia and bloatedness. When preparing to deworm, keeping the feline's environment clean and parasite-free will help prevent further infestation.

Non-prescription Cat Wormers

Non-prescription medicines typically treat just one type of worm, and not all three. Penicillin, carried in pet or feed stores, is a commonly used cat wormer, administered subcutaneously in small doses. Another effective tapewormer is praziquantel, found as an active ingredient in medicine tablets such as Tradewinds.

Prescription Cat Wormers

Prescription wormers can treat all types of worms along with acting as an antibiotic. An active ingredient in prescription wormers, sulfadimethoxine treats bacterial infection, and kills worms. However, most prescription wormers are unsuitable for pregnant or nursing felines.

Make sure you consult your veterinarian prior to treating your cat to ensure the dosages are safe and that there should be no ill side effects.

 

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