Treatment for Hookworms in Cats

Kittens should be treated for hookworms during their vaccination series.

One of the most common parasites infecting cats are hookworms. (Reference 1) Hookworms get their name from the prominent hook-like mouth the worms use to hook onto the intestinal wall for feeding. (References 1, 2, 3) Fortunately, hookworms in cats are relatively easy to treat.

Symptoms

Hookworms can cause many different symptoms, including anemia, weight loss, pale gums, weakness and stunted growth in kittens. In extreme cases, death can occur. (References 1, 2, 3)

Treatment for Kittens

For most kittens, the vaccination series administered by the veterinarian will involve deworming treatments for hookworms, given at 2-week intervals. (References 1, 2)

Treatment for Adult Cats

Adult cats that contract hookworms will be given two deworming treatments at 2- or 3-week intervals. (References 1, 2)

Deworming Medication

Various deworming medications can be used to kill hookworms in a cat, depending on the age of the cat. Kittens 4 weeks of age or older may receive pyrantel (ProWormer-2), while praziquantel (Tradewinds Tape Worm Tabs) can be used in cats 6 weeks of age and older. (Reference 1)

Prevention

Today, monthly medications can be used to help prevent hookworm infestations. For example, Interceptor and Revolution are monthly medications that can help prevent roundworms and hookworms, as well as other parasites. (Reference 1)

References

• Hookworms: (A. braziliense, A. tubaeforme, Uncinaria stenocephala)
• Hookworm Infections in Cats
• Hookworms