Cat Licks External Dewormer: What to Do?

Regular deworming is a crucial task for pet owners, and many opt for the convenience of fastacting external deworming drops. However, these drops are not to be ingested, as consuming them can lead to poisoning symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea, and in severe cases, even liver and kidney damage or death. What should you do if your cat accidentally licks these drops? Today, we'll provide some answers to this question.

What to Do If Your Cat Licks External Deworming Drops?

1. Stay Calm: When you discover your cat has licked deworming drops, the first step is to remain calm. These drops are generally lowtoxic, and if your cat ingests a small amount, it's usually not a big concern.

2. Rinse the Mouth: If you catch the incident early, use plenty of water to rinse your cat's mouth to prevent swallowing the dewormer. Then, encourage your cat to drink plenty of water to help expel the drug quickly.

3. Use a Collar: To prevent your cat from further licking the dewormer, put on an Elizabethan collar and clean any areas on your cat's fur or in the environment where the dewormer might be present.

4. Monitor Your Cat: Keep a close eye on your cat's health. If you notice symptoms like vomiting, seizures, diarrhea, drooling, dilated pupils, listlessness, or loss of appetite, take your cat to the vet immediately. Typically, the vet will induce vomiting, wash the stomach, administer enemas, and provide intravenous fluids to minimize the drug's impact on your cat.

How to Properly Use Pet External Deworming Drops

1. Check the Instructions: Before applying deworming drops to your cat, always read the label to determine the correct dosage. Generally, you should apply the drops along a straight line on the skin of your cat's neck, ensuring there are no breaks or issues with the skin before use.

2. Use an Elizabethan Collar: To prevent particularly agile cats from licking the dewormer, it's advisable to keep them in an Elizabethan collar for 23 days after applying the drops. If the dewormer gets on your cat's fur, be sure to clean it off promptly.

3. Dispose of Packaging Properly: Many cats have a habit of rummaging through trash cans. Therefore, after using deworming medication, make sure to dispose of the packaging outside and store any remaining deworming drops out of reach in a locked cabinet.

In summary, if your cat licks external deworming drops, remain composed and take immediate action. Keep a close watch on your cat's health, and if any abnormalities arise, seek veterinary care promptly to prevent liver and kidney damage. If you frequently encounter such issues, consider switching to a safer oral deworming medication for your cat.