Essential Cat Deworming Precautions: A Comprehensive Gu

Part 1: How to Properly Deworm Your Cat

Cats require regular deworming to maintain their health. Generally, they should be dewormed externally every month and internally every three months. While visiting a veterinarian for deworming can be costly and timeconsuming, many pet owners opt to deworm their cats at home to save both money and time. While it's true that cats can be dewormed at home without a vet's visit, many new owners may find themselves overwhelmed with questions, especially regarding the proper care and precautions. Here are some key points to consider:

1. When Should You Avoid Deworming Your Cat?

Cats that are sick, anemic, or malnourished should not be dewormed, as deworming medications can have side effects such as vomiting and diarrhea. Deworming during these times can exacerbate the cat's condition.

Cats should not be dewormed within 5 to 7 days after receiving vaccinations, as their immune systems are weakened. Deworming at this time can further compromise their health and may counteract the vaccine's effects.

Cats experiencing stress should not be dewormed, as it is crucial to prioritize their health. If you plan to take your cat on a long trip or leave them in a boarding facility, it's best to deworm them in advance.

2. How Often Should You Deworm Your Cat?

Typically, cats can be dewormed starting at 6 to 8 weeks of age. External deworming should be done every month, but for indoor cats that do not venture outside frequently, it can be extended to every three months.

Adult cats should be dewormed internally every three months, with some exceptions allowing for deworming every six months, particularly for cats living in cold climates.

It's important to note that deworming medications should not be given on an empty stomach. They should be administered after the cat has eaten, which minimizes stomach irritation. Additionally, the cat should be kept from eating for 6 hours after the medication to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.

3. Should You Bathe Your Cat Before Deworming?

There are various deworming medications available, each with its own application method. Most external deworming medications require a bath before application, but it's essential to avoid bathing the cat within one week after deworming. For instance, when using ivermectin spoton solutions, this is the case. However, some external deworming drops are designed to be absorbed through the cat's skin, so bathing may not be recommended to prevent the removal of the medication. If your cat is sensitive to baths and may experience stress, it's best to avoid bathing them during deworming. Always follow the instructions provided with the deworming medication and consider your cat's specific needs.

By addressing these common concerns, we hope to assist new cat owners in providing the best care for their pets. If you have any further questions, feel free to leave a comment below, and a pet doctor will be happy to provide online guidance.