Round Worm Medication for Cats
Roundworms (Ascarids) commonly infect cats and kittens, and can cause serious infections in humans. Cats consume roundworm eggs directly by licking contaminated dirt from their fur, or they prey on infected rodents and become infected. The worms live in the digestive tract, causing minor symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. A swollen belly is often a telltale sign of roundworm infection in kittens. In severe cases, roundworms can cause pneumonia. However, these parasites are easily treated.
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Piperazine
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Piperazine is the active ingredient in many over-the-counter (OTC) deworming medications. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends the use of these drugs only for kittens at least six weeks old. The dosage and formulation (i.e., pill, liquid) for OTC deworming medications varies greatly--the CDC recommends following the manufacturers' recommendations on dosage.
Mylbemycin Oxime
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Mylbemycin oxime is the active ingredient in Interceptor and Milbemax--the latter also includes the drug Praziquantel. Both Interceptor and Milbemax provide medication in pill form. According to the CDC, this medication can be given to kittens that are at least six weeks old and weigh at least 1.5 lbs. The CDC recommends a dosage of 2 mg per kilogram of body weight.
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Pyrantel Pamoate/Praziquantel
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Pyrantel pamoate is often given in combination with Praziquantel, and is the active ingredient in Strongid and other popular dewormers. These medications may be provided in liquid or tablet form, and can be given to pregnant and nursing female cats. According to the CDC, Pyrantel pamoate and Praziquantel can be given to kittens that are at least 1 month old and weigh 1.5 lbs. or more, at a dosage of 5 mg Pyrantel pamoate and 25 mg Praziquantel per kilogram of body weight.
Topical Medications
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Two topical treatments are available for removing and preventing roundworms in cats--these medications are also effective for a variety of other parasites. Selamectin is the key ingredient in Revolution, and the CDC recommends a dosage for cats of 6 mg per kilogram of body weight. Emodepside is the active ingredient in the topical medication Profender. Some veterinarians may not advise the use of these medications for cats.
Other Oral Medications
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Stronger medications that are often unnecessary for treating roundworm infections in cats include Fenbendezole, the active ingredient in Panacur, and Febantel, the main ingredient in Drontal.
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References
- Photo Credit a kitten image by Furan from Fotolia.com
