There are many different ways to treat intestinal worms in cats, and one of the most common oral medication for treating felines worms is Drontal (Praziquantel and pyrantel pamoate) tablets.
This drug comes in tablet form and is typically given once a day or as directed by the veterinarian, depending on the severity of the infection.
While Drontal is generally safe, effective, and FDA Approved for felines, there are some potential side effects that you should be aware of before giving your cat this medication.
In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits, side effects, and safe serving ideas of Dronaltal cat worm tablets.
Drontal Dosage For Cats
The safe and recommended dosage of Drontal for cats is: For kitten weight, 0.6-0.8 kg is 1/4 tablet, 1-1.3kg is 1/2 tablet, 2-3 kg is 1 tablet, 4-5 kg is 1 1/2 tablet, and 6 kg and above is 2 tablets.
Remember that Drontal can not be given to new burn kittens and kitties younger than 4 weeks and weightless than 0.5 kg. Also, the medication is not considered ideal for use during feline pregnancy but may be used during lactation.
Drontal Dosage Chart For Cats
| Cat Weight In Kg | Drontal Dosage For Cat |
|---|---|
| 0.6-0.8 kg | 1/4 Tablet |
| 1-1.3 kg | 1/2 Tablet |
| 2-3 kg | 1 Tablet |
| 4-5 kg | 1 1/2 Tablet |
| 6kg+ | 2 Tablets |
| Cat Weight in lbs | Cat Drontal Dosage |
|---|---|
| 1.5-1.9 lb | 1/4 Tablet |
| 2-3 lb | 1/2 Tablet |
| 4-8 lb | 1 Tablet |
| 9-12 lb | 1 1/2 Tablet |
| 13-16 lb | 2 Tablets |
Benefits of Drontal Worm Tablets For cats
There are many benefits to using Drontal tablets to treat your cat’s intestinal worms. Drontal is an FDA Approved medication that is safe and effective for cats of all ages older than 4-5 weeks. Drontal is used to treat tapeworms, hookworms, and roundworms in felines.
This drug comes in tablet form and is typically given once a day or as directed by the veterinarian, depending on the severity of the infection.
Side effects of Drontal for cats
Drontal is usually safe; however, may cause some side effects in cats and also if overdosed, including:
1. Diarrhea
2. Vomiting
3. Loss of appetite
4. Weight loss
5. Salivation
6. Lethargy or fatigue
7. Increased thirst and urination
If you notice any of these side effects in your cat, please contact your veterinarian immediately. Treatment for Dronatal toxicity in cats is typically supportive care, including IV fluids and aggressive symptomatic treatment.
If caught early, most kitties will recover without any long-term effects.
How to give Drontal to cats
1. Read the dosage instructions on the package label carefully before giving your cat the medication.
2. Give the medication to your cat with a small amount of food or by itself.
3. You can crush the tablet and mix it in your pet food if your kitty has difficulty in swallowing.
4. Give the chewable tablet to your cat directly or hide it in a small amount of wet food.
5. Give the medication at regular intervals as prescribed by your veterinarian.
6. Do not skip doses or stop giving the medication early unless directed to do so by your veterinarian.
7. Finish the entire course of treatment even if your cat seems to be doing better. Stopping the medication too soon may allow the infection to return and become resistant to the drug.
8. Contact your veterinarian if you have any questions about giving Dronatal to your cat.
How often to Give Drontal to cats
Drontal should be given to cats at regular intervals as prescribed by your veterinarian. The recommended Drontal for cats is a single dose, and the gap is every 3 months.
For treatment of tapeworms, hookworms, and roundworms in kittens use Drontal at 6, 8, 12 weeks, and then at 3 months intervals.
To treat internal worms in adult felines, use Drontal every three months.
For pregnant and lactating queens, the drontal should be administrated prior to matting 10 days before kittening and 2-4 weeks after kittening.
However, some infections may require more frequent dosing. Contact your veterinarian if you have any questions about giving Dronatal to your cat.
How effective is Drontal for cats?
Drontal is highly effective against common intestinal parasites in cats, including hookworms, roundworms, and tapeworms. It is important to follow the package directions and finish the entire course of treatment even if your cat seems to be doing better. Stopping the medication too soon may allow the infection to return.
What to expect after deworming a cat
After deworming your cat with Drontal, you may see small pieces of worms or eggs in your cat’s stool. This is normal and a sign that the medication is working.
Some cats may have mild gastrointestinal upset after deworming, but this typically resolves within a few days.
How long do Drontal side effects last in cats?
Drontal side effects are typically mild and are resolved within a few days. If you notice any severe or persistent side effects, please contact your veterinarian immediately.
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FAQ:
What should I do if I accidentally overdose my cat on Drontal?
If you think your cat has received an overdose of Drontal, please contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately.
Symptoms of toxicity can include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, and increased thirst and urination. Treatment for Dronatal toxicity is typically supportive care, including IV fluids and aggressive symptomatic treatment.
Can you mix Drontal with food?
Yes, Drontal can be given with a small amount of food. For the chewable tablet, you can give it directly to your cat or hide it in a small amount of wet food.
Is Drontal safe for pregnant cats?
Yes, Drontal is safe for use in pregnant and lactating cats. However, make sure to offer any parasite medication to your pregnant queen with the veterinarian’s advice. Consult your veterinarian if you have any questions about giving Drontal to your cat.
Where can I buy Drontal for cats?
You can purchase Drontal for cats at most pet stores or online. You may also be able to find it at your local veterinary clinic.
Do cats poop out worms after being dewormed?
Yes, it is common to see small pieces of worms or eggs in your cat’s stool after deworming. This is normal and a sign that the medication is working. Some cats may have mild gastrointestinal upset after deworming, but this typically resolves within a few days.
How long will my cat poop worms after deworming?
It is common to see small pieces of worms or eggs in your cat’s stool after deworming. After taking the dewormer, you can see the worms even in the first poop.
How much Drontal should I give my cat?
The recommended dosage of Drontal for cats is 5-10 mg/kg body weight. Please consult your veterinarian for specific dosing recommendations for your cat.
Can I sleep with my cat if it has worms?
If your cat has worms, it is best to keep it isolated from other animals and to wash your hands thoroughly after handling it. It is also important to clean up any feces immediately to prevent infection because there is a risk of getting the worms from your pet.
Final Thoughts
Although Drontal for cats is a common and safe medication to treat cats for worms, there are some potential side effects that you should be aware of before giving your cat this medication.
If you are wondering if your feline needs to take Drontal, look for the common symptoms of intestinal parasites in cats. These can include poor coat condition, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea.
It is important that you seek veterinary care if you believe that your cat may be infected with worms. The good news is that most cases of parasitic infection in felines can be treated with a simple oral medication like Drontal.
If you have any questions about the drug or whether it is the right treatment for your feline friend, please let us know in the comment section below. We will respond as soon as possible.
