10 Potential Cat Dewormer Side Effects & Tips
This post will address some potential cat dewormer side effects you should know and look out for each time you deworm your cat.
As a responsible pet parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your cat healthy.
One important part of that is keeping them free of parasites, that’s where dewormers come in.
Dewormers are medications that kill or remove parasites from your cat’s body.
They’re an important part of your cat’s health care, but they can also have side effects.
What are the cat dewormer side effects?
As with any medication, there are potential side effects of cat dewormers, and these set of effects are known as cat dewormer side effects.
The most common side effect is vomiting, which can occur within a few minutes to a few hours after administration.
Other potential side effects include diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
If your cat experiences any of these side effects, please contact your veterinarian.
Cat Dewormer Side Effects
There are some potential side effects to using a cat dewormer.
These typically include an upset stomach, diarrhea, and vomiting.
If any of these side effects are severe, please consult your veterinarian.
Here are some of the most common side effects of cat dewormers:
1. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is the most common side effect of cat dewormers. It can be mild or severe, and it usually goes away within a few days. If your cat has severe diarrhea, it may need to see a vet.
If your cat is diagnosed with worms, your veterinarian will likely prescribe a dewormer.
While most dewormers are effective and safe, they can sometimes cause side effects like diarrhea.
If your cat experiences diarrhea after being treated with a dewormer, it is important to contact your veterinarian.
They will be able to determine if the diarrhea is a side effect of the dewormer or if there is another underlying cause.
In most cases, the diarrhea will resolve on its own within a few days.
However, if it persists or is severe, your veterinarian may recommend additional treatment.
2. Vomiting
Vomiting is another common side effect of cat dewormers.
Like diarrhea, it can be mild or severe and usually goes away within a few days.
Vomiting is a common side effect of cat dewormers, but it’s not always a sign of a problem.
If your cat is vomiting regularly or has a lot of stomach cramps, it may be time to see a veterinarian.
3. Loss of appetite
There is a loss of appetite that can be a side effect of cat dewormer use. If this occurs, it is important to discuss it with your veterinarian.
It is also important to monitor your cat for any other changes in behavior or appetite.
Keep in mind that some cats may lose their appetite after taking a dewormer.
This is usually only temporary, but if it lasts for more than a few days, your cat should see a vet.
4. Weight loss
Some people believe that weight loss is a side effect of taking cat dewormer.
However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
In fact, there are potential weight loss benefits to taking cat dewormer, including reducing the risk of parasite infections.
So, while weight loss is not always a side effect of cat dewormer use, it is still possible.
Weight loss can be a side effect of dewormers, especially if your cat has a lot of parasites. If your cat is losing weight, take them to see a vet.
5. Increased thirst
Increased thirst is another side effect of dewormers.
If your cat is drinking a lot more water than usual after taking dewormer, take them to see a vet.
There are a few things you can do if your cat starts to experience increased thirst.
One is to make sure they are getting enough water. If that isn’t the issue, you can try a dewormer to see if that resolves the issue.
Consult with your veterinarian to determine if a dewormer is the right solution for your cat.
6. Increased urination
Some cats may urinate more than usual after being dewormed.
This side effect is usually temporary and goes away within a few days.
Dewormers can also cause increased urination which can lead to other problems if not handled well.
If your cat is urinating more frequently or in larger amounts after taking dewormer, take them to see a vet.
7. Lethargy
Some cats may seem more tired than usual after being dewormed.
This side effect is usually temporary and goes away within a few days.
Lethargy, or a general feeling of being tired, is a common side effect of dewormers.
If your cat is lethargic, it may not want to eat or drink, and it may sleep more than usual.
If your cat’s lethargy lasts for more than a day or two, they should see a vet.
8. Muscle weakness
Muscle weakness is another side effect of dewormers.
Some cats may seem weaker than usual after being dewormed.
This side effect is usually temporary and goes away within a few days.
If your cat seems to be having trouble walking after taking dewormer you should see a vet.
9. Seizures
Seizures are a rare but serious side effect of dewormers.
This is because some cat dewormers can contain ingredients that can cause seizures in cats.
If your cat has had a seizure, it is important to get him or her to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
10. Allergic reactions
Allergic reactions to dewormers are rare but can be serious.
If your cat has any of the following symptoms after taking a dewormer, they should see a vet immediately.
Other allergic sign to look out for include:
- Hives
- Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Difficulty breathing
- Collapse
11. Death
Death is a rare but possible side effect of dewormers.
If your cat dies after taking a dewormer, you should contact the manufacturer and your vet immediately.
If you’re concerned about any of the side effects of cat dewormers, talk to your vet.
They can help you decide if a dewormer is right for your cat and choose the best one for them.
Read more about common health conditions in cats.
Cat Died After Deworming
Deworming is a common practice for cats, but it can have side effects. Some cats may experience lethargy, grumbling, hissing, and meowing after deworming.
However, these symptoms are usually mild and temporary.
In rare cases, deworming can lead to life-threatening complications such as pulmonary inflammation, acute anaphylactic reactions, and thromboembolism.
It is important to follow the veterinarian’s instructions for deworming and to keep the cat indoors to limit their exposure to worms.
If a cat is suspected of having tapeworms, it is important not to give them Praziquantel without an accurate diagnosis.
Kittens need to be dewormed at two, four, six, and eight weeks of age, and then monthly until they are six months old.
How can you prevent cat dewormer side effects?
As a pet owner, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects of any medication you give your cat. Dewormers are no exception.
While they are generally safe and effective, there is a small risk of side effects.
The most common side effects of dewormers are vomiting and diarrhea. In some cases, more serious side effects can occur.
These may include allergic reactions, seizures, and liver damage.
There are a few things you can do to help prevent side effects from occurring:
- Use a dewormer that is specific to cats.
- Give the medication exactly as directed, and don’t skip any doses.
- Use a dewormer that is safe for cats to swallow.
- Be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully
Is cat dewormer a safe treatment?
As for the safety of cat dewormer for individual cats will vary depending on the particular product and dosage used.
However, most cat dewormers are considered to be safe for use in cats.
Most cat dewormers are composed of deworming doses of metronidazole or ivermectin, and are administered orally to cats.
While some cat owners may choose to give their cats a dewormer via injection, this is not generally recommended.
Cat dewormers are generally considered to be safe if properly given to a cat.
How to handle cat dewormer side effects
If your cat is prescribed a dewormer, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects.
The most common side effect of dewormers is vomiting. If your cat vomits after taking the medication, it is important to call your veterinarian.
Other potential side effects include diarrhea, lethargy, and lack of appetite. If you notice any of these side effects, call your veterinarian.
How to keep a cat from getting worms
There are a few things you can do to help keep your cat from getting worms.
The first is to make sure they are up to date on their vaccinations. Another is to keep them well fed and free from stress.
Lastly, you can give them regular worming treatments as a preventative measure.
FAQs
What are the common side effects of cat dewormers?
Common side effects of cat dewormers may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. However, not all cats experience these side effects, and they may vary depending on the type of dewormer used.
Are there any serious side effects of cat dewormers that I should be aware of?
While rare, serious side effects of cat dewormers can include allergic reactions, seizures, and neurologic symptoms. It’s important to consult your veterinarian if you notice any unusual symptoms in your cat after administering dewormer.
How can I minimize the risk of side effects when giving my cat a dewormer?
To minimize the risk of side effects, always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian or on the product label. Additionally, monitor your cat closely after administering the dewormer and contact your vet if you have any concerns.
Can kittens experience more severe side effects from dewormers?
Yes, kittens may be more sensitive to dewormers and may experience more severe side effects. It’s essential to use dewormers specifically formulated for kittens and consult your vet for guidance on dosage and potential side effects.
Are there natural alternatives to chemical dewormers to avoid potential side effects?
Yes, some natural alternatives, such as pumpkin seeds, can help control and prevent certain types of worms in cats. However, it’s crucial to discuss any alternative treatments with your veterinarian to ensure they are safe and effective for your cat.
When should I seek veterinary help if I suspect my cat is experiencing side effects from a dewormer?
If your cat experiences severe or persistent side effects, such as difficulty breathing, tremors, or excessive vomiting, seek veterinary help immediately. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your cat’s health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to cat dewormers, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects. Remember to follow the dosage instructions carefully and consult your veterinarian if you notice any unusual symptoms. By being proactive and informed, you can ensure your feline friend stays healthy and happy.
