Kittens are adorable. They have a sweet, innocent look that awakens our protective instinct, and so we do everything we can to try to keep them safe and, above all, happy. Sadly, they are often born with intestinal parasites that have been passed on to them by their mother, or after a few days of age fleas and ticks begin to bother them. What should we do in these cases?
Since they are still very small, we cannot use medication. antiparasitics for adult cats, since the recommended dose for these could be fatal for them. But, fortunately, we can use other things to protect them. Let's know how to deworm kittens.
What are the parasites that can affect kittens?
Before getting into the subject, let's see what the parasites that affect childrenThese are divided into two large groups: external and internal.
External parasites
- Fleas: they are tiny insects, about 0,5cm, and are reddish or black depending on what climate you live in. It can be the intermediate host for tapeworms, and it can also transmit feline infectious anemia. More information about fleas, here.
- Ticks: they are quite reminiscent of a tiny spider. They measure about 0,5cm, and its body increases in size as it sucks the blood of the animal.
- ScabiesAlthough it's not common in kittens, if the mother has them, her kittens are likely to become infected. It's caused by very small mites, usually of the Sarcoptes genus if they affect the skin, or Otodectes if they affect the ear. We'll know that the kitten has mange if it begins to have hairless areas, scabs, scaly skin, and dandruff. If you'd like to know more about the types of mange that affect cats, click.
- Ringworm or dermatomycosis: it is a fungal infection that is manifested by the appearance of circular bald spots.
- Lice: less frequent than fleas, may appear in weakened kittens or with poor hygiene. They cause itching, rough hair, and small nits visible in the fur.
- Ear mites (Otodectes cynotis): very common in puppies; they cause otitis with dark earwax, bad smell and intense itching.
In addition to causing discomfort, external parasites can transmit disease and, in cases of severe infestations, can cause anemia in puppies. Some species can also bite humans.
Internal parasites
- You had- These are flatworms the size of a grain of rice that can be seen in feces. Fleas are the main transmitters, but the kitten can become infested if it comes in contact with feces from a sick animal.
- roundworms: they are whitish and long, up to 18cm. They live in the small intestine, but the larvae carry out an entero-hepato-pneumo-tracheo-enteral migration. It can be transmitted from mother to fetus through the placenta, or through the mammary glands. The human being can be infected.
- Hookworms: they are whitish 20mm. The kitten can be infected by ingesting larvae. It is rare.
- tricuros: also called tricephalos, they live in the colon and in the blind. It is very hardy, but fortunately, it is rare.
- filaria: it is a whitish parasite between 20 and 30 centimeters, which is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Once it enters the cat's body, it goes to the heart and pulmonary arteries. The symptoms can be confused with those of asthma.
- Coccidia: they are transmitted by the ingestion of their eggs, which can be found in mice, birds or others.
- Giards: A kitten - or a person - can become infected by having contact with feces that contain parasites, or by ingesting contaminated food or water.
Internal parasites are especially dangerous in puppies because their immune system is still maturing. Common signs include diarrhea (sometimes with mucus or blood), vomiting, a bloated abdomen, pérdida peso, dull fur, and growth retardation. A high percentage of domestic cats can harbor these, with a higher incidence in young kittens.
How to deworm kittens
From 0 to 2 months
Now that we know what are the parasites, both internal and external, that can affect the little ones, let's know how to deworm younger kittens, between 0 and 2 months of age.
From experience, I can tell you that if you are looking for a product antiparasitic for kittens so smallYou'll get tired of searching. Why? Because, at least in Spain, there are hardly any. There are some for kittens starting at 2,5 kg, but not any less. So, to do?
Fight external parasites
Opt for the grandmother's remedy: vinegar. A bath with warm water (at 37ºC) and vinegar will eliminate all external parasites that are affecting them.. But, yes, it is extremely important that before bathing him we put the bathroom heating on at least 30 minutes before, since at this age they are still not able to regulate their body temperature well and they could get cold.
After bath, you have to dry them well, conscientiously, with a towel.
Additionally, in very young and orphaned kittens, it is usually safer to use flea comb and remove fleas and nits mechanically, reinforcing with cleaning the environment (beds and blankets at high temperature and frequent vacuuming). antiparasitic sprays that some veterinarians authorize from a few days of age; its use must be always supervised by the veterinarian and following the manufacturer's exact dosage.
… And the interns
But of course, this is for fleas, ticks and others, not for the inmates. What do we do with them? We can give the little felines a syrup called Telmin Unidia, sold in veterinary clinics and pharmacies. The dosage is 1 ml/kg, so if they weigh, for example, 0,300 kg, we should give them 0,3 ml. The treatment will last five days, and once finished, we can see how they seem to eat less frequently but with more enthusiasm .
In this age group, many professionals recommend guidelines with syrups or pastes safe for newborns and repeat deworming at short intervals. As a general guideline, the first regimen can be started between 2 and 3 weeks (especially in early weaned kittens), repeat every 2 weeks until 8-12 weeks, and continue monthly until the juvenile schedule is complete. The exact product selection, dosage, and repetitions should be indicated by your veterinarian.
From 2 to 12 months
From this age, the problems to find suitable antiparasitics disappear. In fact, both in veterinary clinics and in pet stores we will find the products we need.
Eliminate external parasites from your kittens
To eliminate fleas, ticks, and others you can put a pipette for kittens, or antiparasitic necklace, also specific to them. With any of them they will be protected for at least a month.
In active infestations, they can be supplemented with sprays or specific shampoos (if the veterinarian deems it appropriate) and remove ticks with tweezers appropriate. Remember to apply the pipette to the nape of the neck, parting the hair to make contact with the skin, and avoid baths 48 hours before and after its application.
… And the interns
For internal parasites they can be given antiparasitic pills -for sale in veterinary clinics-, or take advantage and put a pipette that serves both to eliminate external and internal. They are somewhat more expensive, but they are highly recommended if we do not want to have to force you to swallow a pill.
Many current products cover spread spectrum (nematodes, cestodes, and even some protozoa). The regimen may be a single dose or several days, depending on the drug and the type of parasite. Your veterinarian will adjust the repetition frequency depending on the kitten's lifestyle and the epidemiological situation in your area.
With these tips and tricks, your kittens won't have to worry about pesky parasites .
Indicative deworming schedule for puppies
- 6 weeks: 1st antiparasitic dose.
- 8 weeks: 2nd dose (booster).
- 12 weeks: 3rd dose.
- 16 weeks: 4th dose and veterinary check-up.
If the kitten arrives very baby (2-3 weeks), can be started earlier with paste/syrup for internal use and spray or comb for external use, depending on veterinary assessment. It is important complete deworming before starting the vaccination schedule.
How to administer antiparasitics without stress?
- Prepare the environment: a quiet, quiet place; have your product and a towel ready.
- Gentle handling: Wrap the kitten in a “burrito” blanket, leaving its head free.
- Associates with positive: caresses, calm voice and his favorite snack by the end.
- Alternate formats: If you refuse pills, ask for them liquids o pipettes that cover internal/external.
- Help: If possible, have someone else hold you gently while you apply the dose.
Deworming frequency according to lifestyle
- Kittens up to 6 months: internal every 2-4 weeks at the beginning and then monthly; external depending on the product (usually monthly).
- Indoor adults: internal every 3-6 months; external monthly or seasonal, according to veterinary criteria.
- Cats with access to the outside: continuous prevention, with a monthly pipette or long-lasting collar and environmental reinforcement.
Symptoms of parasitosis: warning signs
- Diarrhea or vomiting, sometimes with mucus or blood.
- Swollen abdomen, weight loss and rough coat.
- Lethargy, apathy or lack of appetite.
- anal itching and dragging of the bottom (tapeworms).
- Intense scratching, wounds or scabs on the skin; dark earwax.
- Presence of worms or “rice” segments in feces.
Prevention and hygiene of the environment
- Wash the bed and blankets at high temperatures and vacuum sofas/carpets frequently.
- Clean the litter box daily and disinfect periodically.
- Usa flea comb in times of higher risk, check your ears and perianal area.
- Prevents the kitten from hunt prey or contact with infested animals.
Feeding after deworming
After internal treatments, the digestive system may be sensitive. It offers digestible wet food, good hydration (the fountains encourage drinking), don't change your diet abruptly and incorporate, if your veterinarian suggests it, probiotics to restore intestinal flora.
Common mistakes and myths to avoid
- Do not use dog products on cats. (e.g., permethrin): may be toxic.
- Don't improvise doses: Respect age/weight and guidelines; do not overprotect with several products at once without indication.
- Avoid dangerous “home remedies”: Garlic, onion, or essential oils can be harmful to cats. Vinegar can help occasionally in outdoor baths, but do not use it orally nor substitute veterinary treatment for it.
- Do not bathe 48 hours before/after a pipette; may reduce its effectiveness.
- Treat all animals from home and the environment to break the cycle.
Whether it's an indoor or outdoor cat, the key is prevent and review regularlyIf you have any doubts or persistent symptoms, consult your veterinarian to adapt the deworming plan to your cat's age, weight, and lifestyle. With a well-planned schedule, choosing the right format (pipettes, collars, tablets, syrups, or sprays), and good home hygiene, your kitten will be protected against the most common parasites, you will grow up healthy and enjoy a long and happy life.