Cats, especially outdoor cats, are unfortunately exposed to troublesome parasites such as roundworms and tapeworms. In Norway, there are a variety of medications available that are effective against different types of parasites. Nevertheless, it is good to familiarize yourself with how deworming for cats works, and how to proceed for the best possible treatment of puss.
Is deworming for cats available without a prescription?
Deworming for cats and dogs is a prescription-only treatment to avoid unnecessary medication. To prevent the development of resistance, it is important that the animal receives the right medication, which is adapted to the individual situation. A veterinarian will be able to make a correct diagnosis and prescribe the most suitable medication for your cat. At the same time, the veterinarian can give you useful information about how your cat should be dewormed, as well as any customized treatment.
Deworming for kittens and adult cats
Some types of intestinal worms can be transmitted from mother to kitten through breast milk. For this reason, it is recommended that kittens receive regular treatment for intestinal worms during their first year of life. You can get a prescription for this treatment at our veterinary clinic A-Vet Smådyrklinikk .
Recommended treatment plan for deworming kittens in the first year:
- At 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks of age
- Then at 6 months and 12 months of age
How often should cats be dewormed?
How often an adult cat should be dewormed varies depending on whether it is an indoor or outdoor cat. An indoor cat will usually not need deworming unless worms are detected in the stool.
For cats that go on outdoor adventures and love to catch mice, rats and small birds, it is recommended to regularly deworm them. This may be a good idea especially in spring, summer and autumn. However, for less active cats that are not as keen on hunting, it is not as important. Your cat also needs deworming if you notice worms in their stool or white, rice-grain-like lumps in the fur around the anal opening.
If you own a mother cat who is still nursing, it is a good idea to treat both mother and kittens at the same time when the kittens are 2, 4 and 6 weeks old. Remember to inform the vet that the mother has kittens so that you can get a prescription for the correct worming treatment.
How quickly does deworming work on cats?
How quickly a deworming treatment works on your cat varies depending on the type of medication used and your cat's individual response. Some deworming treatments may start working within a few hours, while others take a little longer, usually within a couple of days. It is important to follow the instructions given to you by your veterinarian to ensure that the treatment is effective.
How much does deworming for cats cost?
The price of deworming for cats varies depending on several factors. Among other things, the type of deworming, manufacturer and dosage will affect the price. In addition, the prescription will also cost money. For more information, you can take a look at the price list in our veterinary clinic here .
Summary
Deworming for cats can be given as a regular treatment for outdoor cats, and when needed for indoor cats. In Norway, deworming for animals is a prescription-only treatment to ensure proper medication and avoid the development of resistance, and you must therefore contact a veterinarian to have the treatment prescribed. Intestinal worms can be transmitted from mother to kittens, and it is therefore recommended to treat kittens with deworming during the first year of life.
Want to learn more about cats? Also read about ticks on cats and how many kittens a cat can have !
