Cat Deworming: Do You Need to Fast Before & After?
Section 1: Do Cats Need to Fast Before and After Deworming?
Generally speaking, there's no need for cats to fast before or after deworming. For those felines that are reluctant to take deworming medication, you can also mix the medication with their food. However, it's advisable to monitor your cat for about 46 hours after administering the dewormer to check for any adverse reactions such as vomiting, diarrhea, or a lack of energy. If everything seems to be fine, then you can feed your cat. During this time, ensure your cat stays wellhydrated. It's recommended to give the deworming medication in the morning to prevent your cat from going too long without eating and to allow for prompt medical attention if any abnormalities occur.
Section 2: Important Considerations for Deworming Cats
Be cautious not to change your cat's diet before or after deworming, as their digestive system is quite sensitive. A sudden change in food can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.
Cats should be at least 2 months old before being dewormed, and kittens under 1KG should not be dewormed.
While cats don't need to fast before or after external deworming, avoid bathing them for 3 days before and after treatment. External dewormers are typically applied as drops and rely on the skin's oils to disperse, so bathing can interfere with their effectiveness.
Young cats under 6 months should be dewormed monthly, while cats over 6 months old may require deworming every 23 months. If your cat frequently goes outdoors or eats raw meat, monthly deworming is recommended.
External deworming is generally suggested monthly, but during colder winter months when parasite populations are lower, you can extend this to every 2 months.
For more detailed information on whether cats need to fast before and after deworming, as well as the frequency of deworming, refer to "How to Determine If Your Cat Needs Deworming." If you have any other questions, feel free to consult with an online veterinary expert for free advice.
