Deworming your cat is an important part of keeping them healthy. There are a variety of dewormers available, so it’s important to talk to your veterinarian about which one is right for your cat. Some dewormers require a prescription, while others are available over-the-counter.
The most common types of worms that affect cats are roundworms and tapeworms.
- Get a dewormer from your veterinarian specifically for cats
- Do not use a dog dewormer on your cat as it can be toxic
- Mix the correct amount of dewormer with your cat’s food according to the package directions
- Feed the treated food to your cat according to the package directions
- Repeat the treatment in 2-4 weeks as needed until your cat is no longer infected with worms
How to Deworm Cats at Home
If your cat has worms, don’t panic! Many types of worms can be treated at home with over-the-counter medication. Here’s what you need to know about deworming your cat.
There are two main types of worms that can infect cats: roundworms and tapeworms. Both types of worms are internal parasites that live off their host (in this case, your cat). Roundworms are the most common type of worm found in cats, and they’re usually acquired through contact with contaminated soil or feces.
Tapeworms, on the other hand, are typically transmitted via fleas.
The good news is that both roundworms and tapeworms can be treated with over-the-counter deworming medication. The active ingredient in most dewormers is piperazine, which paralyzes the worms so they can be expelled from the body through the intestine.
When treating your cat for worms, it’s important to follow the instructions on the package carefully. Some products require a single dose, while others may need to be given for several days in a row. It’s also important to keep in mind that worming medication only kills adult worms – it won’t prevent new ones from infecting your cat down the road.
For this reason, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet about long-term prevention strategies such as regular deworming or using a monthly spot-on treatment like Revolution® .
What to Expect After Deworming a Cat
If you’ve recently dewormed your cat, you might be wondering what to expect next. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect after deworming your cat:
1. Increased Appetite: It’s common for cats to have an increased appetite after being dewormed, as their bodies are finally getting the nutrients they need.
If your cat is eating more than usual, don’t worry – this is totally normal!
2. More Energy: Along with an increased appetite, most cats also have more energy after being dewormed. This is because their bodies are no longer being drained by the parasites, and they can finally start feeling like themselves again.
If your cat seems extra playful or active, it’s probably due to all that newfound energy!
3. Improved Digestion: Many cats suffer from digestive issues caused by parasites. After being dewormed, you may notice that your cat’s digestion improves significantly.
They may have fewer accidents outside the litter box, and their stools may become more regular in both appearance and frequency.
Deworming for Cats Dosage
Deworming for cats is an important part of keeping them healthy. There are a variety of dewormers available, and the type you use will depend on the type of worms your cat has. The most common types of worms in cats are roundworms and tapeworms.
Roundworms are the most common type of worm found in cats, and they can be treated with a variety of oral dewormers. The most common roundworm dewormer is pyrantel pamoate, which is available over the counter at most pet stores. The dosage for this dewormer is based on the weight of your cat, so be sure to read the label carefully before giving it to your cat.
Tapeworms are less common than roundworms, but they can still be a problem for cats. Tapeworms are usually treated with an oral dewormer called praziquantel. This medication is only available through a veterinarian, so you will need to take your cat to the vet for treatment.
The dosage for this medication is also based on the weight of your cat.
It’s important to follow the directions on the package when giving your cat any medication, and to make sure that you give them the correct dose based on their weight. If you have any questions about deworming your cat, or if you think they may have worms, please call your veterinarian for advice.
Worming Kittens under 12 Weeks
If your kitten is under 12 weeks old, you’ll need to care for them differently when it comes to worming. Kittens this age are still developing and their immune systems aren’t fully formed yet. This means they’re more susceptible to parasites, including worms.
There are a few different types of worms that can infect kittens. The most common are roundworms and hookworms. These parasites live in the intestines and feed off of the food your kitten eats.
They can cause severe intestinal distress and even death if left untreated.
The best way to protect your kitten from these dangers is to have them regularly wormed by your veterinarian. Your vet will know which products are safe for use in young kittens and will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment for your pet.
Can I Feed My Cat After Deworming
Yes, you can feed your cat after deworming. In fact, it is recommended that you continue to feed your cat a regular diet during and after the deworming process. Deworming can be a stressful time for cats, so continuing to provide them with their regular food will help to keep them calm and comfortable.
Can I Deworm My Cat Myself?
Yes, you can deworm your cat yourself with the proper medication and tools. However, it is always best to consult with a veterinarian first to make sure that your cat does not have any other underlying health issues that could be exacerbated by self-medication.
How Can I Naturally Deworm My Cat?
There are a few different ways that you can naturally deworm your cat. The first thing you can do is to feed them garlic. Garlic is a natural anthelmintic, which means that it will kill off any worms living in your cat’s digestive system.
You can either add garlic to their food, or give them a raw clove to chew on.
You can either grind up the seeds and mix them into their food, or give them a handful of whole seeds to snack on. Finally, you can also give your cat wormwood extract. Wormwood is very bitter, so most cats won’t eat it willingly.
However, you only need to give them a small amount mixed into their food in order for it to be effective. If your cat is currently suffering from a heavy infestation of worms, then you may want to consult with your veterinarian before trying any of these home remedies. In severe cases, prescription dewormers may be necessary in order to completely eliminate the parasite problem.
When Should Cats Be Dewormed?
When Should Cats Be Dewormed?
Cats should be dewormed at least once a year, and more often if they live in close proximity to other animals or go outdoors. Kittens should be dewormed starting at 2-4 weeks of age, then every 2 weeks until they are 16 weeks old.
After that, cats should be dewormed at least once a year. If your cat has never been dewormed, or it’s been longer than a year since their last treatment, your vet may recommend a more frequent schedule.
There are many different types of worms that can infect cats, but the most common are roundworms and tapeworms.
Roundworms are long and thin, while tapeworms look like flat ribbons. Both types of worms feed off of the food your cat eats, robbing them of vital nutrients. This can lead to weight loss, poor coat condition, and general ill health.
In severe cases, worms can cause blockages in the intestines which can be fatal.
Conclusion
If you have a cat, chances are you’ll need to deworm them at some point. There are a few different types of worms that can infect cats, so it’s important to know which one your cat has before beginning treatment. The most common type of worm is the roundworm, which is typically found in young kittens.
Treatment for roundworms is relatively simple and can be done at home with over-the-counter medication. If your cat has tapeworms, they will need to be treated by a veterinarian as this type of worm is more serious. Deworming cats is important for their overall health and wellbeing, so be sure to talk to your vet if you’re unsure about which type of worm your cat has or how to treat it.