Currently, there is a wide range of products for cats on sale that will help get rid of fleas, ticks and other parasites. Drops are the most popular. They are easy to use, highly effective and completely safe for the animal. The main thing is to remember the rules for using such drops and strictly follow them. This article talks in detail about how to apply flea drops, what you must do, and what you should avoid.
How to recognize a parasite infestation?
It is important to start treatment as early as possible. Fleas, ticks and other insects can cause suffering and harm to your cat's health. Infection is especially dangerous for kittens, since their bodies are still weak and quickly depleted. You can determine that a cat is infected with parasites by the following signs:
- A cat may suddenly fall and bite itself in the tail area - this is a sure sign of flea infestation;
- If a pet scratches its sides, then its back, then its paws, most likely it is tormented by fleas;
- Spread the six parts of the animal in the back area and carefully inspect the skin. If it is affected by blood-sucking insects, red dots, irritation, and spots will be visible on it. If the infestation is too strong, then with such an inspection it will be possible to detect the insects themselves. Traces of their vital activity are often found, for example, grains of blood or parasite eggs.
Monitor your pet's condition carefully. If you notice any suspicious symptoms, conduct a thorough examination.
Symptoms of worms in cats
- The presence of fleas in a cat is a direct sign of the appearance of helminths.
- Since invasive parasites can live not only in the intestines, but also in the bronchi, muscles, and liver, a number of symptoms may be observed indicating the presence of helminths. Namely: general exhaustion of the body, dull fur, lethargic condition of the pet, refusal of food or, conversely, increased appetite, thirst, weight loss, vomiting in the cat and diarrhea (the presence of parasites can be seen in the vomit or feces). A small rash around the anus may also indicate the presence of worms.
- Kittens have swollen bellies, very pale mucous membranes (due to anemia), an upset stomach is replaced by constipation, bloody diarrhea.
Benefits of drops
Flea and tick medications in the form of drops are used more often than others. This is due to a number of their undeniable advantages:
- High efficiency. As a rule, one treatment is enough to protect the animal from parasites for one or two months. In this case, the drug begins to act 20 minutes after application. You will notice this by the improvement in your cat's well-being. She will become more active, her appetite will increase;
- The drops are safe and, when used correctly, cannot harm the animal. But at the same time, we should not forget about precautions;
- Convenient to use. Most often, the drops are packaged in a small pipette designed for one use. With its help, you can apply the drug to a specific area of the skin;
- After using the product, the cat will not need to be bathed. You don’t have to wear an uncomfortable collar that your pet tries to take off.
Article on the topic: Flea drops for cats and kittens
Due to these advantages, drops are used more often than other means to combat parasites. Veterinarians recommend using them.
In what cases should you choose drops?
A modern veterinary clinic offers a wide range of products for treating animals against helminths. These are all kinds of dosage forms in the form of tablets, suspensions and pastes. Antiparasitic injections are also known, which are administered to the animal subcutaneously or intramuscularly.
However, not every owner dares to give an injection to their pet at home. With tablets and suspensions the situation is even more complicated. Attempts to feed a stubborn furry dog with a tasteless medicinal drug often end with scratched hands of the owner and the pet crawling under the sofa.
Very convenient and easy-to-use anti-worm drops for cats come to the aid of animal lovers.
Special pipettes contain strictly dosed medicinal liquid. When used correctly, capliot wormers will safely and quickly cure your beloved cat of harmful parasites.
Unlike tablets, deworming drops on the withers do not affect the animal’s liver. Their effect on the cat’s body is milder. There is another important advantage of drops. They almost always have a complex effect.
The drugs have a detrimental effect not only on worms living inside the animal’s body, but also on ectoparasites (which are located on the surface of the body) fleas and ticks.
There is an opinion that if a cat does not walk outside, but is kept only in the house, it cannot become infected with worms.
Unfortunately, this is a deep misconception. Helminth larvae and mature individuals are literally everywhere. Walking down the street, the owner himself brings uninvited guests on the soles of his shoes or clothes. And a completely indoor cat picks them up.
Another commonplace way of infection is through raw meat and fish products or through tap water if consumed by a beloved pet.
Newborn kittens can become ill while still in the womb if the cat is infected with worms. Therefore, for prevention purposes, anthelmintic drugs should be used once every 3 months. The most convenient way to do this is with the help of anti-worm drops on the withers for animals.
Basic recommendations
Flea drops for cats are an effective and safe remedy that will quickly get rid of parasites. Today, such drugs are manufactured by various companies. When choosing, you should focus on the age and weight of your pet. Not all products are suitable for kittens and pregnant females. When using such drugs, the following recommendations must be observed:
- Before applying the product, carefully read the instructions. It tells you how many drops you will need and where it is best to drop them. Most often, it is enough to apply a couple of drops to the withers. Some products are recommended to be dripped at three points along the spine;
- Cat drops may not be effective if your cat gets wet after using them. Therefore, for several days after treatment, do not bathe the animal or let it go outside in rainy weather;
- Drops can also be used for preventive purposes. This is especially important if the cat is walking outside. In this case, it is sufficient to carry out the treatment once every six months;
- The product can only be applied to dry skin;
- Before using such products, it is better to consult a veterinarian, as they have some contraindications.
Following these recommendations will make the use of drops safe. The main thing is to start treatment as early as possible. Remember that a cat suffers greatly from a flea bite.
How can a cat get worms?
Worm larvae and adult parasites are found in the environment: in the soil, on the grass, in parks and gardens. Therefore, it does not mean at all that if your cat is an indoor cat and does not go outside, then he cannot become infected with worms; you yourself can bring larvae on the sole of your shoes or on your clothes.
It is also impossible to exclude infection:
- when your cat eats raw fish, meat, or tap water;
- when fleas appear, there is a possibility of your pet becoming infected with worms;
- upon contact with sick animals, contaminated objects (sand, soil) and feces;
- Intrauterine infection of kittens from a pregnant cat is possible.
Rules for applying the drug
Cat drops are very easy to use. Most often they are packaged in plastic pipettes, which facilitate the application process. Follow these rules on how to properly administer flea drops to your cat:
- Read the instructions for use included in the package with the drug. Determine how many drops need to be applied based on the weight and age of the animal;
- Break off or cut off the tip of the pipette containing the product;
- Have your cat sit next to you. Spread the fur at the withers;
- Then you need to drop the required number of drops onto the skin;
- Distribute the preparation over the skin with your fingertips so that it does not spread. You shouldn't rub it too hard.
In some cases, the application of the drug will have to be repeated. As a rule, their action lasts for a month. If a cat walks outside, there is a high probability of re-infection.
Mechanism of action of anti-worm drops
After applying the drug to the skin, it is absorbed by the skin and enters the bloodstream, which carries it throughout the body.
The active components that affect helminths can be different substances:
- selamectin;
- fipronil;
- moxidentin;
- emodepside;
- praziquantel;
- imidacloprid;
- ivermectin.
All of them affect the nervous system of the parasite, which leads to its paralysis. Helminths no longer cling to the intestinal walls and secrete substances that neutralize the effect of gastric juice, and are simply digested with food. The destruction of larvae located directly in the blood can lead to toxicity of the body, therefore treatment of helminthiasis is recommended to be carried out under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Video: Profender anti-worm drops
Precautionary measures
Flea drops, like other specialized medications, are not toxic to your pet. Despite this, when using them, precautions must be taken so as not to harm the animal. These include:
- Before using the drops, inspect the skin where they are applied. If there are open wounds, scratches or other damage on it, then the drug cannot be applied;
- It is forbidden to handle kittens that feed on their mother's milk. The cat constantly licks her babies. At the same time, she will definitely lick off the drops applied to them. This may provoke negative consequences for her health;
- The kitten is allowed to use only specialized medications. Products for adults are not recommended for use;
- The drops used should not get on the cat's nose, eyes or mouth. If this happens, they should be washed off immediately with plenty of running water. After this, it is best to show the animal to a veterinarian;
- In some cases, drugs can cause an allergic reaction. If this happens, consult your veterinarian;
- Be careful not to lick the product off, especially if it is applied in multiple places along the spine. If this happens, observe your pet's behavior. At the first symptoms of poisoning, seek help from a specialist.
Compliance with such precautions will allow you not to worry about the health of the animal during treatment. Don't neglect them.
Deworming drops – Bayer Advocate for cats up to 4 kg
- It is used for the treatment and prevention of flea infestation (Ctenocephalides felis), the treatment of allergic flea dermatitis, the treatment of otodectosis (caused by Otodectes cynotis), the prevention of dirofilariasis (destroys microfilariae L 3 and L 4 Dirofilaria immitis), the treatment of gastrointestinal nematodes (L 4 larvae, immature and adults Toxocara cati, Ancylostoma cati, Ancylostoma tubaeforme).
- Completely rids cats of fleas, lice, lice, as well as the larval stages of these parasites, within 12-24 hours after application and prevents re-infection for 4 weeks.
- It destroys parasites in the animal’s habitat, so the owner does not have to carry out complex and labor-intensive insecticidal treatments of animal care items, floors and furniture in the house.
- The only drug in the EU that is officially registered for the treatment of demodicosis. The effectiveness of the drug against demodicosis at the end of treatment is 97.8%.
- Effective against mature and larval forms of all types of roundworms, hookworms, uncinaria and whipworms. Thanks to its larvicidal effect (effective against helminth larvae), the animal is reliably protected from re-infestation by parasites.
- Advocate destroys microfilariae in the animal's blood, preventing their development into adult nematodes, and also helps prevent infection with dirofilariasis, including in animals that travel with their owners to exotic countries.
- It is important that with the help of the drug Advocate you can not only treat parasitic diseases, but also prevent them in time
Composition: imidacloprid 10% and moxidectin 2.5%.
Contraindications to the use of drops
Modern drugs are not toxic to animals. Despite this, in some cases they can cause health problems. In this regard, there are several contraindications to the use of such drugs:
- Age up to 10 weeks;
- Weakened condition of the animal, a serious degree of exhaustion. In this case, complex treatment will be required. Be sure to consult your veterinarian;
- Pregnant and lactating females. In exceptional cases, we use specialized medications, the instructions for which indicate the possibility of use during this period of life. An example of such drops is “Frontline Spot On”;
- Individual intolerance to the components of the product.
If there are such contraindications, the use of drops can seriously aggravate the situation. We will have to look for other ways to combat parasites.
Popular anti-parasite medications for cats in the form of drops
In the pet store you can find a huge number of medications for helminths. The effectiveness of the drops depends directly on the composition. Do not pay attention to the advertising and price of the drug. The first thing you need to do is familiarize yourself with the composition of the drug.
Most drops contain fipronil or intermectin, which in isolated cases can cause allergic reactions. The medicine has one or more active ingredients. Some drugs depress the nervous system of parasites, others lead to paralysis and death, and still others affect metabolism. In addition to the composition, it is necessary to look at the dosage and toxicity. Drugs with the first and second toxicity do not affect the functioning of the animal’s internal organs.
Prazicide-complex
The drug is intended for external use. The drops look like a clear yellow liquid and contain levamisole and ivermexin. The active ingredients effectively deal with worms. In addition, levamisole strengthens the cat’s immunity. For treatment and prevention, use once every three months. Not recommended for kittens less than two weeks old. Drops should be used with caution for pregnant and lactating cats.
Profender
The German drug Profender is an effective remedy in the fight against parasites. Drops are available in pipettes with a volume of 0.35, 0.7 and 1.2 ml. The active ingredients emodepside and praziquantel are excellent remedies against nematodes, cystodes and other pests. The drug is approved for use during pregnancy and lactation. It is recommended to use drops when the kitten reaches eight months. You can buy Profender drops at the pharmacy, the average price is from 400 to 650 rubles.*
Inspector
Deworming drops Inspector antiparasitic for cats. The drug is available in pipettes of 0.4 and 0.8 ml. The main active ingredients are fipronil and moxidectin. The product effectively fights not only worms, but also ticks, lice and lice. Suitable for use in lactating and pregnant cats. Kittens can be given the drug upon reaching 7 weeks of age.
Stronghold
Stronghold drops on the withers for cats are produced in the USA and have a comprehensive effect in destroying parasites. Often used in preventive measures. The main active ingredient is selamectin, which kills internal and external parasites. The drug is not recommended for kittens less than two months old. The drug is moisture resistant, and water on the withers does not reduce its effectiveness. In addition, stronghold has an anthelmintic effect.
Leopard
Bars is intended for the treatment of adult cats. Drops are contraindicated for lactating, pregnant and weakened animals. The product has a wide spectrum of action, fights against ticks, worms, fleas, and lice. The drug is often counterfeited. Some cat owners note that the drops sometimes cause negative reactions. It is recommended to use under the supervision of a veterinarian.
Advocate
Advocate drops have a wide spectrum of action. Used as a medicine for flea dermatitis and otodectosis. The drug contains two active ingredients: imidacloprid and moxidectin.
It is not advisable to give drops to kittens under 8 weeks of age, sick and weakened pets, lactating and pregnant cats.
Dironet
The drug Dironet is used for prevention against internal and external parasites. Contains praziquantel and ivermectin. As soon as the drug hits the withers, it begins to act and destroy parasites. Dironet not only effectively destroys insects, but also prevents infection by them over a certain period. After a day, the worms come out along with the feces. They destroy helminths at different stages of development (from eggs to adults).
Drontsit
The drug droncit has proven itself to be effective for the treatment of cats suffering from ascariasis and cestodiasis. Available in plastic capsules. After application to the withers, deworming drops for cats are quickly absorbed into the blood. Parasites that feed on blood and fragments of the mucous membrane quickly receive their dose and die.
Helmintal K
Helminthal oil drops for external use. The drug is used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes for intestinal nematodes, cestodiases, entomoses caused by fleas, otodectosis and notoedrosis, as well as for the prevention of dirofilariasis. Release form: plastic capsules with a volume of 0.4 and 1 ml. The medicine takes effect two hours after application and is excreted in the urine within three weeks. Drops are not recommended for use in animals with kidney and liver disease.
Cases of overdose
An overdose of such drugs is possible only if the instructions for use are violated. It is accompanied by the following symptoms:
- Excessive salivation;
- Severe vomiting;
- Muscle cramps;
- The cat becomes lethargic and may refuse to eat.
If alarming symptoms appear, the animal must be shown to a veterinarian. If there are still traces of the drug on the body, they must be washed off as soon as possible.
When used correctly, flea drops will not harm your cat's health. You will help your pet quickly get rid of parasites and regain health.
If you find an error or inaccuracy, please select a piece of text and press Ctrl+Enter.
How to treat worms with drops on the withers
Before applying drops to the withers, you need to weigh the cat and calculate the required amount of product. Anthelmintic drugs can also be used for healthy animals to prevent the disease.
Drops of worms are applied to clean and dry skin of the withers of a cat or kitten, between the shoulder blades. This place is ideal because animals tend to lick all foreign bodies on their skin, and they simply cannot reach there.
After stroking and calming the cat, you need to smooth its fur so that the product gets on the skin. After applying the drops, you need to hold the animal. This will help prevent your cat from simply shaking off the medicine.
The structure of the drops is quite greasy and thick, so while the therapy is being carried out, the cat’s fur at the site of their application will look untidy.
To prevent worms, you need to wet clean your home every day and treat your cat for various parasites (fleas, ticks, helminths) every three months. This will help reduce the risk of helminthiasis in the animal and the need for its treatment.