How much stronghold to drip on a cat? - briefly
To administer Stronghold (selamectin) to a cat for flea prevention and control, the typical dosage is 6 mg/kg body weight. This means that for every kilogram of your cat's weight, you should give 6 milligrams of the medication, applied topically.
How much stronghold to drip on a cat? - in detail
Determining the appropriate amount of Stronghold (pyrantel pamoate) to administer to a cat requires careful consideration of several factors, including the cat's weight and the specific product instructions. Pyrantel pamoate is an anthelmintic medication commonly used to treat intestinal parasites such as roundworms and hookworms in cats.
Firstly, it is crucial to consult with a veterinarian before administering any medication to ensure the correct dosage and prevent potential adverse effects. The typical recommended dose of pyrantel pamoate for cats is 2-5 mg per kilogram of body weight. This means that the amount of Stronghold needed will depend on the cat's weight.
For instance, if a cat weighs 4 kilograms (8.8 pounds), the dosage would be calculated as follows:
- Lower end of the range: 4 kg * 2 mg/kg = 8 mg
- Upper end of the range: 4 kg * 5 mg/kg = 20 mg
In practical terms, this means that for a 4-kilogram cat, you would need to administer between 8 and 20 milligrams of pyrantel pamoate. It is important to note that these calculations assume the use of a liquid formulation where the concentration of pyrantel pamoate is known.
When using Stronghold, which is a topical solution containing 10% imidacloprid and 2.5% moxidectin for parasite control, the dosage is typically based on the cat's weight as well. However, the active ingredient in Stronghold for treating intestinal worms is moxidectin, not pyrantel pamoate. Therefore, it is essential to use the product according to the manufacturer's guidelines or under the supervision of a veterinarian.
In summary, the amount of Stronghold or any other medication containing pyrantel pamoate should be determined based on the cat's weight and the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer or the prescribing veterinarian. Proper administration ensures the safety and efficacy of the treatment for intestinal parasites in cats.