Essential Grooming: Cat Deworming Schedule & Precaution

Section 1: Types of Parasites Affecting Cats

Cats can host a variety of internal parasites, including roundworms, hookworms, coccidia, tapeworms, and liver flukes. Both internal and external parasites can drain the nutrients from a cat's body and secrete toxins that can harm the feline, leading to illness and the potential spread of diseases, some of which can be transmitted to humans. While keeping cats indoors can significantly reduce the risk of parasitic infections, it's important to note that this does not eliminate the need for regular deworming. Oh, and by the way, indoor living doesn't give you a free pass to skip deworming treatments!

This is especially true for stray cats that have just joined your home, cats that are allowed to roam freely, and those whose diet primarily consists of meat.

Section 2: Types of Deworming Medications

Common internal dewormers for cats include Bayer, Revolution, Panacur, and Drontal. For external parasites, Frontline is a popular choice. Bayer and Revolution are quite wellknown, though they can be a bit on the pricier side. It seems that Bayer is no longer available online and has shifted to being sold exclusively in physical stores. The price has also increased from around 20 to 45 yuan per pill, which can be quite a sting for pet owners.

However, there are still many excellent products available, such as the "One Pill Clean" from Raymi, a onetablet dewormer for both dogs and cats. It's a broadspectrum dewormer, and Raymi and Drontal are currently quite popular in the market.

Section 3: Dosage of Deworming Medications

Deworming medications can be toxic, so it's crucial to follow the instructions on the label. This is especially important for domestically produced dewormers. Always weigh your cat before administering the medication and calculate the dose based on its weight. Sometimes, there may be leftover medication, which can be given to stray cats if you feel it's a waste.

Section 4: Important Notes for Deworming

When deworming your cat, it's best to do so 3 to 4 hours after it has eaten. After giving the deworming medication, avoid feeding your cat for 5 to 6 hours to ensure the medication is effective. For a few days after deworming, you may notice dead parasites and eggs in your cat's feces. Some cats with weaker stomachs or poor health may experience vomiting or a lack of energy. If diarrhea occurs, it's best to consult with a veterinarian.