Essential Tips for Cat External Deworming
Cats can be susceptible to parasites throughout the year, making regular deworming a crucial part of their care. However, deworming medications can be toxic, so it's essential to be cautious when administering them to ensure your cat's safety. In this article, Dr. Oxygen Pet will guide you through the key considerations for external deworming in cats, offering valuable insights for new cat owners.
Understanding External Deworming Medications for Cats
The most common external deworming products for cats come in the form of sprays or topical drops. These products vary in their active ingredients and the parasites they target. Here's an overview of some popular options:
1. Seresto (Selamectin)
Composition: Selamectin
Parasite Spectrum: Fleas, ear mites, mange mites, lice, roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms
Description: A broadspectrum dewormer that can eliminate several common internal and external parasites. However, it targets a limited range of parasites. If your cat frequently plays outdoors or consumes raw food, it's advisable to alternate with other deworming products.
2. Frontline Plus (Fipronil and Methoprene)
Composition: Fipronil and Methoprene
Parasite Spectrum: Adult fleas, flea eggs, larvae, and ticks
Description: Available in both drop and spray forms, Frontline Plus is suitable for cats over 8 weeks old. It effectively kills adult fleas and larvae, offering high safety and efficacy. It's recommended to use it in conjunction with an internal dewormer.
3. Advantix (Permethrin and Pyriproxyfen)
Composition: Permethrin and Pyriproxyfen
Parasite Spectrum: Fleas, flea larvae, ticks, lice, mosquitoes, and sandflies
Description: A wellestablished dewormer with good effectiveness. However, there are many counterfeit versions on the market, so purchase only from reputable sources. It's also best used in combination with an internal dewormer.
How to Use External Deworming Medications for Cats
Most deworming medications are topical drops. While their application is generally straightforward, there are important considerations:
Application: Typically, deworming drops are applied to the cat's back, along a straight line, ensuring the skin is undamaged.
Bathing: Avoid bathing your cat for three days before and three days after applying deworming drops, as the medication is distributed through the skin's sebaceous glands, and bathing can interfere with its effectiveness.
Dosage: Always follow the dosage instructions based on your cat's weight, as overuse can be toxic.
Prevent Licking: After applying the drops, consider using an Elizabethan collar to prevent your cat from licking the medication. Also, dispose of the packaging promptly.
Frequency of External Deworming
The frequency of deworming should be tailored to the cat's age, season, environment, and health status. Generally, cats should start deworming around 2 months old, with monthly treatments before adulthood. After reaching maturity, treatments can be spaced to every 13 months. Cats that stay indoors can be dewormed every 3 months, while those who venture outdoors may require monthly external deworming and quarterly internal deworming. During peak parasite seasons in spring and summer, consider monthly external deworming, and every 3 months in fall and winter. If your cat is infected, consult with a veterinarian for an adjusted deworming schedule.
Precautions Before and After Deworming
Avoid Deworming When Sick: Cats with illnesses should not be dewormed, as it can lead to adverse reactions.
Vaccination Interval: Wait at least one week between deworming and vaccination.
Environmental Hygiene: If your cat is infected, clean and disinfect the environment to prevent reinfestation.
Monitor Health: After deworming, keep an eye on your cat's health. If symptoms like lethargy, loss of appetite, or vomiting persist, seek veterinary care immediately.
These are the essential considerations for external deworming in cats. Paying close attention to these details can help keep your feline friend healthy and happy. For any further questions about cat deworming, consult with a professional pet veterinarian at the Oxygen Pet website.
