Essential Cat Care Medicines for Every Household
With my daily experiences and knowledge, I have compiled a list of essential medications that I hope will be helpful to all parents of pets.
Deworming Medications
Deworming medications are a staple in every pet owner's medicine cabinet. Generally, it's recommended to deworm your pet internally every three months and externally every month. However, always follow the instructions on the package for your furry friend's specific needs.
For more information on deworming, you can refer to our previous articles on the topic.
Maintenance | Deworming for Cats
Recommended combinations:
Big Love External Dewormer + Happy Dew Internal Dewormer
Love Walker External Dewormer + Bayer Internal Dewormer
Ringworm
Ringworm can be treated with shampoos containing 2% miconazole (the main ingredient in Daktarin). I will write a detailed article on the treatment method later.
Eyes
Inflammation
There are many eye drops available on the market, but be cautious with those containing dexamethasone. While they can quickly reduce swelling, overuse may lead to eye perforation. Use them with care.
Accidental Injuries
French Victor: Can be used to clean around the eyes
Sodium Hyaluronate Eye Drops: Used to alleviate eye fatigue, dryness, and inflammation
Speedy Quick: Effective for ulcers and eye injuries
Ears
Avoid cleaning solutions with salicylic acid at home.
Salicylic acid itself is not a problem as an ingredient, as it can dissolve earwax and remove it. However, if the cat's eardrum is broken, salicylic acid can cause neurological disorders, such as eye issues. To be safe, avoid using products with salicylic acid if you're unsure about your cat's eardrum condition.
Accidental Ingestion and Vomiting
Blackthorn syrup or 3% hydrogen peroxide can be used for emergency vomiting. Afterward, seek medical attention immediately.
Intestines
Heartburn
Famotidine tablets: Reduce stomach acid secretion, effective quickly but with weak power, not directly for vomiting, suitable for after vomiting without appetite or a small amount of vomiting.
Omeprazole: Reduce stomach acid secretion, effective slowly but with strong power, not directly for vomiting, needs frequent use, not suitable for emergencies.
Sucralfate chewable tablets: Mucosal protective drug, suitable for suspected esophageal bleeding, with a short duration, needs frequent use, with an interval of more than one hour.
Constipation
Cats can become constipated due to eating too much fire or other dietary issues. If the cat's feces start to appear granular rather than stringy, it's a sign of mild constipation. The following medications can help improve the situation:
Conditioning Cream: Also known as a soft stool agent, it lubricates the intestines to aid in defecation and is often used as a pet snack.
Lactulose: The most common and convenient anticonstipation medication, usually in the brand Duomik, can be taken orally or administered rectally. It's also effective for high blood ammonia in cats.
Polyethylene Glycol 4000 Powder: A very strong stool softener, not recommended as a first choice, consider when lactulose is not effective, and use with caution if there is a history of kidney disease.
Psyllium Husk Powder: Can be used for the prevention and maintenance of constipation, use with caution in severe constipation, as excessive consumption can lead to further constipation.
Diarrhea/Soft Stool
There are many reasons for diarrhea and soft stool, such as food intolerance, dysbiosis, and digestive system diseases. It's not recommended to selftreat. Use probiotics for maintenance first, and if there's no improvement, seek medical attention promptly.
Minor Injuries
For minor injuries, we recommend iodine tincture and chlorhexidine gluconate.
For small, shallow wounds, iodine tincture can be used for disinfection.
Chlorhexidine gluconate has a wide range of uses, including cleaning bite wounds, abrasions, wound infections, and even inhibiting dental plaque and cleaning cats' black necks, accelerating acne recovery.
Other
Emotional Soothing
Cats prone to stress and hair standing on end can be prescribed gabapentin by their veterinarian. Take one pill 12 hours before going out to effectively alleviate their tension and pain. The most common side effect is that the cat may become overly relaxed, with less common side effects including drooling and vomiting.
Pheromones are also a key medication for preventing cats from becoming overly emotional. F3 pheromones are suitable for moving and visiting the doctor, while F4 pheromones are better for preventing fighting between cats.