What pills can I give my cat when it starts going outside? - briefly
To protect your cat from potential hazards and parasites outdoors, consider giving it monthly flea and tick prevention medication such as Bravecto or Frontline Plus. Additionally, if your cat is not already vaccinated against rabies, consult with your veterinarian about administering a rabies vaccine.
What pills can I give my cat when it starts going outside? - in detail
When your cat begins exploring the outdoors, there are several precautions you should consider to ensure its health and safety. Among these measures, administering certain preventive medications can be highly beneficial. Here's a comprehensive guide on what pills you might give your cat when it starts going outside:
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Flea and Tick Preventives: Outdoor cats are particularly susceptible to fleas and ticks, which can cause skin irritation, anemia, and transmit diseases like Lyme disease or tapeworms. Common preventive medications include:
- Bravecto (fluralaner): A topical solution that provides up to 12 weeks of protection against fleas and ticks.
- Frontline Plus (fipronil and (S)-methoprene): A monthly topical treatment effective against both adult fleas and their larvae, as well as ticks.
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Heartworm Preventives: Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and can be fatal if left untreated. Regular administration of heartworm preventatives is crucial:
- Revolution (selamectin): A monthly topical solution that protects against heartworms, fleas, ear mites, and hookworms.
- Heartgard (ivermectin): An oral medication given monthly to prevent heartworm disease.
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Deworming Medications: Intestinal parasites such as roundworms and hookworms can be picked up from the environment or ingested prey. Regular deworming is essential:
- Pyrantel pamoate: An oral medication effective against roundworms and hookworms, often combined with other dewormers for broader coverage.
- Fenbendazole: A broad-spectrum dewormer that treats various intestinal worms, including tapeworms, whipworms, and hookworms.
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Vaccinations: While not pills, ensuring your cat is up to date with core vaccines like Rabies and FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia) is vital for outdoor cats. These protect against serious diseases that can be contracted outside.
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Microchip Identification: Although not a pill, microchipping your cat is highly recommended. If your cat gets lost, a microchip greatly increases the chances of it being returned to you.
Administration of these medications should always be done under veterinary guidance. Your vet can recommend the most suitable products based on your cat's specific needs and local parasite prevalence. Additionally, regular check-ups are important to monitor your cat's health and adjust the preventive care plan as necessary.