What Is Deworming for Cats
What Is Deworming for Cats? Deworming for cats, also called anthelmintic therapy, is the process of removing parasitic worms from the gastrointestinal tract of felines. The most common types of worms that affect cats are roundworms and tapeworms. Deworming is typically done through the administration of oral medication, although some topical products are available as well. In severe cases, deworming may need to be performed by a veterinarian.
Most healthy adult cats will not require routine deworming, as their immune system is generally able to keep worm populations in check. However, kittens and cats with weakened immune systems may benefit from regular deworming treatments. Additionally, outdoor cats are at greater risk of acquiring worms, so they may require more frequent deworming.
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The frequency of deworming will vary depending on the cat’s individual needs, but it is typically recommended that kittens be treated for worms every two to four weeks until they are six months old. After that, adult cats should be dewormed at least once a year. If your cat goes outside, you may need to increase the frequency of treatments to every three to six months.
Why Is Deworming Important for Cats?
Deworming is important for cats because it helps them stay healthy and free of disease. Parasitic worms can cause a variety of health problems in cats, including anemia, weight loss, and diarrhea. Worms can also make it difficult for cats to absorb nutrients from their food. In some cases, parasitic infections can be fatal.
How Is Deworming Done?
Deworming can be done through a variety of methods, including medication, natural remedies, and surgery. Medication is typically used to treat mild to moderate infections. The most common type of medication used for deworming is an anthelmintic drug, which kills the parasites without harming the cat. Natural remedies may also be effective against some types of worms; however, these should only be used under the supervision of a veterinarian. Surgery is typically reserved for severe infections that have not responded to other treatments.
What Are the Benefits of Deworming?
The benefits of deworming include improved health, increased energy levels, and a reduced risk of infection. Cats that are infected with worms often appear lethargic and may have a poor appetite. After successful treatment, most cats will regain their energy and appetite within a few days. Deworming also reduces the risk of your cat spreading the infection to other animals or humans.
What Are the Risks of Deworming?
The risks of deworming include side effects from the medication, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. These side effects are typically mild and go away on their own within a few days. Natural remedies may also have side effects; however, these are usually less severe than those associated with medication. Surgery is generally considered safe; however, there is a small risk of complications such as infection or intestinal blockage.
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Top 10 Best Cat Dewormers in 2022
1. Bayer Quad Dewormer Chewable Tablets
These chewable tablets from Bayer are designed to kill four types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. The tablets are flavored with beef so they’re easy to give to your cat, and they start working within 24 hours.
2. SENTry Capguard Oral Gel for Cats
This oral gel from SENTry is designed to kill four types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. The gel is easy to administer, and it starts working within 24 hours.
3. Merck Safeguard Dewormer for Cats
This dewormer from Merck is designed to kill four types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. The tablets are flavored with chicken so they’re easy to give to your cat, and they start working within 24 hours.
4. Virbac Catego Dewormer for Cats
This dewormer from Virbac is designed to kill four types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. The tablets are flavored with beef so they’re easy to give to your cat, and they start working within 24 hours.
5. Bayer Drontal Allwormer for Cats
This dewormer from Bayer is designed to kill four types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. The tablets are flavored with liver so they’re easy to give to your cat, and they start working within 24 hours.
6. SENTry Purrscriptions Worm Away 7 For Cats
This dewormer from SENTry is designed to kill four types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. The tablets are flavored with chicken so they’re easy to give to your cat, and they start working within 24 hours.
7. Zoetis Defendex Dewormer for Cats
This dewormer from Zoetis is designed to kill four types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. The tablets are flavored with liver so they’re easy to give to your cat, and they start working within 24 hours.
8. Purina Pro Plan Focus Dewormer for Cats
This dewormer from Purina is designed to kill four types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. The tablets are flavored with beef so they’re easy to give to your cat, and they start working within 24 hours.
9. Elanco Effitix Topical Solution for Cats
This topical solution from Elanco is designed to kill four types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. The solution is easy to apply, and it starts working within 24 hours.
10. Vetoquinol Enzadent Oral Care Chews for Cats
These oral care chews from Vetoquinol are designed to kill four types of worms: roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and whipworms. The chews are flavored with chicken so they’re easy to give to your cat, and they start working within 24 hours.
Conclusion
Deworming is an important part of keeping your cat healthy. It can be done through a variety of methods, including medication, natural remedies, and surgery. The benefits of deworming include improved health, increased energy levels, and a reduced risk of infection. The risks of deworming are typically mild and go away on their own within a few days.