Can You Use Dog Dewormer On a Cat? No, Here’s Why

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As responsible pet owners, we want to keep our furry friends healthy and parasite-free. Unfortunately, one common issue that many cat owners face is intestinal worms. One of the most effective ways to treat this problem is using deworming medications.

However, there is a widespread belief that dog dewormers can also be used on cats. While dogs and cats share many similarities, their digestive systems are vastly different. As a result, using a dog dewormer on a cat may be unsafe and could lead to potentially harmful consequences.

Do not use dog dewormer on a cat under any circumstances.

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Why Can’t You Use Dog Dewormer on a Cat?

can you use dog dewormer on cats

Cat and dog digestive systems are different. For example, dogs are omnivorous and can digest a wider variety of foods than cats, who are obligate carnivores.

Dogs also have a longer digestive tract than cats, which allows them to break down and absorb certain types of medication differently than their feline counterparts.

When it comes to dewormers, the active ingredients in dog and cat dewormers are often different. If a pet owner uses a dog dewormer on their cat, the dosage may not be suitable, and it could cause adverse effects on your cat’s health.

Using the wrong dewormer could harm your feline friend. Common side effects of using dog dewormers on cats may include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and lethargy. Severe intoxication due to chemical toxicity is also possible.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), veterinarians caution against the use of dog dewormers on cats. The treatment for intestinal worms in cats differs from that of dogs because the active ingredients and dosages required are specific to feline physiology.

What to Do If Your Cat Ate Dog Dewormer

my cat ate dog dewormer

Contact your veterinarian immediately.

Here are some essential guidelines to follow in case you believe your cat has ingested dog dewormer:

  • DO NOT attempt to induce vomiting or force-feed your cat anything, as this could cause additional problems.
  • DO NOT attempt to administer any additional medication to your cat unless instructed by a vet.
  • DO NOT try to treat your cat at home without veterinary intervention, as this could be potentially harmful.
  • DO contact a veterinarian immediately and provide them with as much information as possible about the occurrence.
  • DO safely secure any remaining dewormer packaging or substances and bring them to the vet’s office.

What to Do if Your Cat Has Worms?

Treatment

Worms can occur in cats due to contact with infected animals or soil. It’s essential to know the signs of worms so that you can take action as soon as possible if they arise.

Symptoms of worms in cats include vomiting, weight loss, diarrhea, and changes in appetite or energy levels. If left untreated, worms can cause severe health issues for your pet and could even lead to death.

Dewormers are a safe and effective treatment for cats suffering from worms. Your veterinarian will be able to provide you with the best advice on the specific type of treatment depending on the severity of the infestation and the type of worm your cat has come into contact with (the most common is roundworms).

Preventing Worms

Dewormers are effective, but your cat will get reinfested if you don’t clear the dropped eggs.

Prevention is vital when it comes to worms in cats, as treating them once they have already become present can be difficult. Cleaning the litter box and any cat bedding is the minimum you’ll need to do.

You should also sweep, mop and vacuum all surfaces in the house, as well as wash any human bedding the cat has come in contact with.

Talk to your vet about appropriate preventative measures for your pet based on its lifestyle and environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using dog dewormer on cats is unsafe and not recommended. Pet owners should always choose cat-specific dewormers to treat their feline friends’ intestinal worm problems.

Consult with your veterinarian before choosing the appropriate dewormer medication and dosage to ensure your cat’s safety and the effectiveness of the treatment.

Prevention is always better than cure, so keep your cat’s living areas clean and practice proper hygiene to avoid a possible infestation of intestinal worms in the first place.

Abigail Stevens
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