🐾 Services available in English, Mandarin & Tagalog. 🐾
Call us to book your pet's next appointment.

204.269.8162
cat-services

Deworming

All cat owners should discuss a regular program of parasite testing and control with one of our veterinarians. Knowing when to deworm a cat is as important as knowing how to deworm it. Obtain the necessary medication from our hospital. Oral, topical, and injectable medications are available depending on the target parasite. You should never try to medicate with over-the-counter dewormers without checking first with one of the veterinarians, especially with kittens.

What are some internal cat parasites?

Several types of worms can infect cats. The four most common are roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms, and heartworms. Not only do these worms pose a danger to your cat, but many can be spread to other household pets and some, on rare occasions, to humans (those with compromised immune systems and young children are at more risk). For the safety of everyone, in addition to deworming kittens, recently adopted cats, and cats with symptoms, all cat owners should discuss a regular program of parasite testing and control with one of our veterinarians. Knowing when to deworm your cat is as important as knowing how to deworm it.

What are worm infestation symptoms in cats?

Some worms can be seen in the cat’s stool, bedding or in their vomit. Segments can also be seen around your cat’s anus. Some cats may appear bloated “pot-bellied” or even be seen scooting their anus on the ground/carpet. Sometimes, they have a hard time gaining weight and worms can even cause intestinal blockages if they are severely infested. Intestinal worms can also cause diarrhea or loose stools.

Do worms affect humans?

Not only do these worms pose a danger to your cat, but some of them can also infect humans and all of them can infect other household pets. You can reduce the risk of parasitic infection to your family by eliminating parasites from pets; restricting access to contaminated areas, such as sandboxes, pet “walk areas,” and other high-traffic areas; and practicing good personal hygiene. Disposing of pet feces on a regular basis can help remove potentially infective worm eggs before they become distributed in the environment and are picked up or ingested by pets or humans.

What is the deworming schedule?

Your cat’s schedule will be based on the lifestyle of your cat. Cats who spend time outside or cats who hunt will require more frequent deworming and we recommend that these cats be given deworming medication on a regular basis. The treatment is not a one-time deal. It is still important to deworm indoor cats as they can still pick up parasites. Please discuss with one of the team members if you are concerned about deworming your cat.

Any deworming medication side effects?

Deworming and other parasite control medications are targeted to affect the parasite (the worm) and not the host (the cat), usually by taking advantage of the unique nervous system of the parasite. Some side effects include diarrhea and vomiting. If your cat shows any other signs, please call our hospital and report any other signs to make sure that your cat is reacting appropriately.

Blog

How to help injured and orphaned wild animals

Below are a few suggestions should you come across injured or orphaned wildlife.  First, you need to determine if the wild animal is indeed injured or abandoned without putting yourself in harm’s way. Try not to have too much contact with the animal or to disturb the surroundings. If you are unsure, it is best that you leave it be and call a wildlife specialist to notify them about the animal and its location. Certain animals like rabbits and deer often leave their young alone for long periods throughout the day. If it appears healthy and well, do not disturb the animal. 

Read More
See All Articles