Identifying When to Deworm Your Cat: A Quick Guide

Why is it Necessary to Deworm Cats?

Cats are commonly affected by internal parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, and hookworms, as well as external parasites like fleas, lice, ticks, and mites. These parasites can cause varying degrees of harm to cats, potentially severely impacting their health and even affecting their owners. Parasites can rob cats of vital nutrients, lead to skin diseases, render vaccinations ineffective, and weaken their immune systems. Therefore, it is crucial for cat owners to take deworming seriously and to start with preventive measures.

Which Cats Require Deworming and Which Do Not?

Generally, all cats should be dewormed regularly. However, there are certain situations where cats may temporarily avoid deworming. For instance, if a cat is sick and its body is too weak to withstand the side effects of deworming medications, which could worsen its condition. Cats that have just moved to a new home or environment should be observed for 35 days before deworming to avoid stressrelated reactions. Cats with anemia or malnutrition may not absorb deworming medications effectively. Additionally, cats that have recently been vaccinated should wait 57 days before deworming to prevent discomfort and to ensure the vaccine's effectiveness.

How to Deworm Cats Effectively?

Deworming Process:

Cats can be dewormed internally and externally simultaneously.

Deworming Schedule:

1. For treating internal parasites (intestinal), there are two types of treatment: preventive and therapeutic. For preventive deworming, cats over 45 days old should be dewormed monthly, those over 6 months old every three months, and kittens or cats with poor health should avoid internal deworming medications. For therapeutic deworming, which is for cats already diagnosed with internal parasites, the dosage and deworming cycle should be determined after consulting a veterinarian.

2. For treating external parasites (surface), cats should be at least 2 months old and dewormed monthly. For cats with existing parasites, broadspectrum deworming medications that can kill multiple types of parasites are recommended. The dosage and treatment cycle should be followed as directed by the medication.

Ensuring proper deworming for your cat is not only a responsibility but also a compassionate duty for every cat owner. It is essential for the health of both the cat and its human companion.