Cat Heartworm & Deworming

While deworming your cat at home is possible, you should consult your veterinarian before doing so. Deworming medications should be chosen based on the specific type of worms your cat may have, and the dosage needs to be appropriate for your cat's size and health condition. Additionally, some over-the-counter deworming medications may be less effective than prescription ones.

While some natural remedies are believed to help control or prevent parasites in cats, the effectiveness of these methods can vary, and not all natural options have been scientifically proven. If your cat has a confirmed worm infestation, it's best to consult with your veterinarian for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. That being said, these are some natural remedies that might help deworm your cat. Pumpkin seeds contain an amino acid called cucurbitacin, which is believed to have deworming properties. You can grind up pumpkin seeds and mix them into your cat's food. However, the evidence supporting the efficacy of pumpkin seeds in deworming cats is limited. Food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) is a powder that consists of the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms. Some people use DE as a natural dewormer by adding small amounts to their cat's food. However, the use of DE for deworming is controversial, and its safety and effectiveness are not well-established. Inhaling DE can be harmful, so use caution when handling it. Coconut oil is thought to have anti-parasitic properties. You can try adding small amounts of coconut oil to your cat's food. While coconut oil may have some health benefits, its effectiveness as a sole deworming agent is uncertain. Some natural health proponents suggest that fermented vegetables may help create an environment in the digestive tract that is less favorable for parasites. Introduce small amounts of fermented vegetables, such as sauerkraut or kimchi, to your cat's diet.

The use of dewormers in kittens should always be done under the guidance of a veterinarian. Kittens are more susceptible to the effects of medications, and the choice of a dewormer depends on the age, weight, and health status of the kitten, as well as the type of worms being targeted. Never use over-the-counter dewormers or medications without consulting your vet, as inappropriate use can be harmful. Pyrantel pamoate (Nemex, Strongid) is a commonly used and effective dewormer for roundworms and hookworms in cats, including young kittens and pregnant queens. It is safe for kittens as young as two weeks old. The American Association of Feline Practitioners recommends the use of pyrantel pamoate in kittens, and it's often administered at intake to all cats and kittens over two weeks of age. For kittens, a common protocol is to administer pyrantel every two weeks until they reach 16 weeks of age. This frequent deworming schedule helps address the vulnerability of kittens to internal parasites and reduces the risk of transmission to other animals or humans.

If you don't deworm your cat, there can be various consequences, as untreated internal parasites can lead to several health issues for your cat. Internal parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and others, can compromise your cat's overall health. They may compete with your cat for essential nutrients, leading to malnutrition and weight loss. Intestinal parasites can cause gastrointestinal problems, including diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal discomfort. Chronic gastrointestinal issues may impact your cat's well-being and quality of life. Severe infestations can lead to weakness, lethargy, and a general decline in energy levels. Cats may become less active and lose interest in play or other activities. Parasites can weaken the immune system, making your cat more susceptible to other illnesses and infections. A compromised immune system can also hinder the cat's ability to fight off the existing parasite infestation. Some internal parasites, such as certain types of roundworms, can be transmitted from cats to humans (zoonotic transmission). This poses a risk to the health of family members, especially young children and individuals with weakened immune systems. Pregnant cats can transmit certain parasites to their kittens, leading to potential developmental issues and health problems in young cats. Common symptoms of worm infestations in cats include a bloated belly, vomiting, loss of appetite, and diarrhea, particularly as these parasites affect the gastrointestinal tract. In severe cases, especially in young cats, untreated infestations can lead to significant health complications and, in some instances, may even result in death due to the impact on the intestinal system. Regular veterinary check-ups and fecal examinations can help identify and address parasite issues early.

In some cases, you may actually see worms in the kitten's feces or around the anal area. Different types of worms, such as roundworms and tapeworms, may be visible. Worms, especially roundworms, can cause the kitten's belly to appear distended or bloated. This is often more noticeable after eating. Worms can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to vomiting. If you notice persistent or recurrent vomiting in a kitten, it may indicate a worm infestation. Changes in bowel habits, particularly diarrhea, can be a symptom of intestinal parasites. The stool may also contain mucus or blood. Severe worm infestations can lead to malnutrition and weight loss in kittens. If a kitten appears underweight or fails to thrive, internal parasites could be a contributing factor. Worms can sap a kitten's energy, leading to lethargy and a lack of interest in play or normal activities. In the case of tapeworms, you may notice small, rice-like segments (proglottids) around the kitten's anal area or in their bedding. Malnutrition resulting from worm infestations can affect the health of a kitten's coat, leading to a dull and unkempt appearance.