Parasite Treatment for Pregnant Cats: Safe Deworming Op
Can Pregnant Cats Be Dewormed?
The gestation period for cats typically spans around two months, during which time they may be prone to internal and external parasites due to changes in diet or environment. Therefore, if you plan to breed your cat, it's essential to implement deworming measures at least one week before the mating process.
Why is it not recommended to administer deworming medication to pregnant cats?
Firstly, most deworming medications have some level of toxicity. During pregnancy, a cat's immune system is weaker, making them more susceptible to the side effects of deworming drugs. Mild reactions may include gastrointestinal discomfort, but severe cases could lead to miscarriage.
Secondly, it's generally advised not to give pregnant cats deworming medication or other drugs, as the ingredients could pass through the bloodstream to the fetus, potentially affecting its health and causing deformities.
Lastly, if a pregnant cat shows signs of excessive fleas or other external parasites, or symptoms of intestinal parasites, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian before administering deworming medication.
What to Watch Out For During a Cat's Pregnancy
During the early stages of pregnancy, pet owners should limit the cat's physical activity to prevent accidents, such as jumping or running too fast, which could harm the kitten's developing belly and lead to a miscarriage.
Avoid feeding raw meat to your cat and maintain a clean environment to prevent infections and parasitic infestations that could harm both the mother and the developing kittens.
In multicat households, it's important to isolate the pregnant cat to prevent the spread of parasites or diseases from other cats and to avoid conflicts that may arise due to changes in the cat's personality.
After giving birth, it's not advisable to deworm the mother immediately, as she needs to nurse her kittens. The medication could pass through her milk to the kittens, so it's recommended to deworm the cat after the kittens have weaned.
Some cats may become pregnant unexpectedly, even when their owners are unaware. To prevent heavy parasitic infections in pregnant cats, it's crucial to maintain regular deworming and keep them indoors during pregnancy. If you wish to avoid unwanted pregnancies, consider spaying or neutering your cat at an appropriate age.
