What to give cats for worms? - briefly
To effectively treat worms in cats, veterinarians often recommend deworming medications such as praziquantel or fenbendazole. Always consult your vet before administering any medication to ensure proper dosage and safety for your cat.
What to give cats for worms? - in detail
Cats are susceptible to various types of intestinal parasites, commonly known as worms. These include roundworms (Toxocara cati), hookworms (Ancylostoma tubaeforme), and tapeworms (Dipylidium caninum and Taenia taeniaeformis). To effectively manage and treat worm infestations in cats, it's crucial to understand the available options for deworming.
The primary methods for treating worms in cats are through oral medications, topical treatments, or injectable solutions. Each approach has its advantages and considerations.
Oral Medications:
Oral dewormers are among the most common and effective treatments for worms in cats. They come in various forms such as tablets, liquids, or chewable treats. These medications work by disrupting the parasite's life cycle, often targeting different stages of the worm's development.
Common Oral Dewormers:
- Pyrantel: This is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic that targets both roundworms and hookworms. It paralyzes the worms, preventing them from attaching to the intestinal wall, thus allowing the cat's immune system to eliminate them.
- Fenbendazole: This medication is effective against a wide range of intestinal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, and whipworms. It works by inhibiting the worms' glucose metabolism, leading to their death.
- Praziquantel: Specifically designed for tapeworm infestations, praziquantel causes the tapeworm to disintegrate, making it easier for the cat's body to expel them.
Topical Treatments:
Topical dewormers are applied directly to the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. They are absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body, targeting various stages of worm development.
Common Topical Dewormers:
- Selamectin: This topical solution is effective against both roundworms and hookworms. It works by paralyzing and killing the parasites.
- Eprinomectin: Similar to selamectin, eprinomectin is a broad-spectrum anthelmintic that targets various intestinal worms and is often used in combination with other treatments for comprehensive coverage.
Injectable Solutions:
Injectable dewormers are typically administered by a veterinarian. They provide immediate and systemic action against worms, making them ideal for severe infestations or when oral or topical treatments are not feasible.
Common Injectable Dewormers:
- Moxidectin: This injectable solution is highly effective against a wide range of intestinal parasites, including roundworms and hookworms. It works by paralyzing the worms, preventing them from attaching to the intestinal wall.
- Ivermectin: While primarily used for heartworm prevention in dogs, ivermectin can also be used for treating certain types of worm infestations in cats under veterinary supervision.
Prevention and Regular Check-ups:
Regular deworming is essential to prevent reinfestation and maintain the health of your cat. Most veterinarians recommend deworming kittens every two weeks from 2 to 8 weeks of age, followed by monthly treatments until they are 6 months old. For adult cats, routine deworming should be done every 3-6 months or as advised by a veterinarian.
Conclusion:
Treating worms in cats requires careful consideration of the type of infestation and the cat's overall health. Consulting with a veterinarian is crucial to determine the best course of treatment. Regular deworming, proper hygiene, and prompt attention to any signs of infestation are key to maintaining your cat's health and preventing the spread of parasites.