How to Deworm a Cat

Internal parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms are very common among cats and kittens. Many kittens are actually born with some form of intestinal worms that have been passed on from their mother. While these parasites can cause serious health problems, especially in young kittens, they are also easily treated. In fact, most veterinarians will treat young animals preventively. In addition, adult cats can be infected through the ingestion of fleas and small animals.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Stool sample from your cat or kitten
• Deworming medication such as Drontal, Interceptor, or Revolution
• Flea Preventive such as Frontline, Advantage, or Revolution

Identifying and Treating a Worm Infestation

1. Be aware of the symptoms of an infestation. The symptom most pet owners first notice is the presence of worms in the feces of the cat. Other symptoms may include lethargy, increased hunger, vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

2. Collect a stool sample and bring it to your veterinarian. Often, there are visible worms within the stool, but not always. Your veterinarian can determine the presence of microscopic parasite eggs during a fecal examination. Your veterinarian can also determine if the symptoms may be caused by other parasites, such as coccidia. Verifying which parasites, if any, are infecting your cat or kitten will make it easier for you veterinarian to prescribe an appropriate treatment plan.

3. Your veterinarian will prescribe an effective medication. This medication may be topical (i.e. Revolution), or oral (Drontal, Interceptor). Often, treatment consists of one to two doses, spaced a few weeks apart if a second dose is prescribed. Further treatment may be needed if your cat or kitten is exposed to fleas or has the opportunity to hunt live prey.

Preventing Re-infestation

4. Start your cat or kitten on a flea treatment program. There are several options available, including monthly treatments, some of which will also prevent certain intestinal parasites from returning.

5. Try to keep your cat indoors to limit the cat's access to small animals, such as rodents, which can be eaten and re-infest your pet with worms or other parasites.

6. Get yearly fecal examinations for your cat to detect possible recurrence of worm or parasite infestations.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not use the over-the-counter worming treatments available at many retail stores. They are far less effective than what your veterinarian might prescribe, and often don't have a broad enough spectrum to eradicate all of the potential parasites.

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