Veterinarian-Recommended Dewormers for Cats: Top 6 Choices (Article Published on 02/09/2025 by Rhiannon Koehler, DVM, MPH)
Intestinal parasites can pose a significant health risk to cats, causing a variety of symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, weight loss, and visible worms in the stool. Other signs include a dull coat, excessive licking of the rear, low energy, poor appetite, weakness, and abdominal tenderness in severe cases [1][2][3][4].
Fortunately, treatment typically involves the use of deworming medications, which are specifically designed to target the type of parasite infecting the cat. Veterinarians prescribe medications like broad-spectrum antiparasitics to kill the worms. These medications may be administered orally or topically [1][4][5].
After initial treatment, follow-up examinations are essential to ensure that the parasite infestation has been successfully eliminated. Regular veterinary check-ups, proper hygiene, and the use of flea and tick control products can help prevent reinfection [4].
Preventing intestinal parasites involves several steps. Regular veterinary care, including annual examinations and deworming as needed, is crucial. Hygiene practices, such as cleaning litter boxes regularly and disposing of faeces properly, are also important [4].
Dietary considerations also play a role. Feeding cooked or prepared food instead of raw meat can help reduce the risk of parasite infection. Flea and tick control is another key preventative measure, as these pests can transmit parasites [4].
When choosing a dewormer, proper diagnosis is important. Dewormers for cats treat intestinal worm infections. Revolution PLUS, for instance, treats and controls roundworms and intestinal hookworms. Profender™ (emodepside, praziquantel) is a topical dewormer that treats five types of intestinal worms [4].
Other popular dewormers include Drontal® (praziquantel/pyrantel pamoate), a broad-spectrum dewormer for cats that treats five types of intestinal worms. Bravecto PLUS prevents heartworm disease, treats and prevents flea infestations, and treats three types of tick infestations [4].
Cost is a factor to consider when choosing a dewormer. One-time parasite treatments or cat dewormers typically cost between $20 to $50. The frequency of dosing is another factor to consider [4].
It's important to note that some dewormers are available over the counter, while others require a veterinary prescription. For example, Bravecto PLUS requires a prescription, while Revolution PLUS is suitable for kittens over 8 weeks old and weighing at least 2.8 lbs [4].
Advantage Multi is suitable for kittens over 9 weeks old and weighing at least 2 lbs. This product prevents heartworm disease, kills adult fleas, treats flea infestations, and treats ear mites [4].
However, it's crucial to avoid using dog dewormers on cats, as they can be harmful. Some dewormers, particularly those containing isoxazoline, have been associated with neurological side effects, such as tremors or seizures [4].
Overuse of dewormers may also encourage parasites to develop resistance. Therefore, it's important to follow the recommended dosage and frequency [4].
A 2020 study found that nearly one-fourth of client-owned cats had at least one intestinal parasite, emphasising the importance of regular preventative care [4].
In conclusion, by following a regimen of regular veterinary care, good hygiene practices, and the use of appropriate dewormers, cat owners can effectively manage and prevent intestinal parasites in their feline companions.
By adhering to a veterinary care routine that includes regular check-ups, deworming as needed, and proper diagnosis of parasites, cat owners can ensure the health and wellness of their pets [4]. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene practices, such as cleaning litter boxes regularly and disposing of faeces properly, can help prevent intestinal parasites [4].
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