Infections caused by pinworm shows up as an intestinal condition among school-going children. These worms are pin-shaped and hence the name; they are at times found in rectum and colon of humans. Drugs of a genre called anthelmintics are widely administered to treat pinworm infections. Pyrantel is a popular anthelmintic med. It is also used for treating infections caused by hookworm and roundworm. But, what is the right dosage level of Pyrantel for cats and kittens? It is necessary to know more about the right dosage level.
There are many types of parasitical worms that reside in intestines of human beings. Hookworm, pinworms and roundworms are more common. In case of infections caused by hookworms, you may notice itchiness (in the area infected), pain in lower abdomen, watery discharge of stools and an inexplicable loss of body weight. In some cases, drop in red cells of blood can show up; this is known as anemia. Children are more vulnerable to intestinal parasites. If you child is unable to gain weight or has learning difficulties, it is a good practice to check the incidence of parasitical worms.
What is Pyrantel?
This med is administered for the treatment of infection caused by worms. It is taken orally. Key ingredients of this med paralyses the worms; this action makes them to lose their attachment to the walls of intestines. The good thing is the human body does not absorb most of the chemicals used in Pyrantel. Owing to this, smaller dosage forms are unlikely to cause much adverse effects.
It is a category C pregnancy med for humans; this means the risks of fetal damage are no completely ruled out. However, for pets such as cats, it is grouped under category A. This indicates no major risks are likely to occur (as evidenced from controlled studies).
What is the right dosage level of Pyrantel for cats and kittens?
A safe dosage level for cats is 2.5 to 5 milligrams (mg) per pound of body weight. This translates to 5 to 10 mg per kg. Such doses are repeated in 21 days i.e., 3 weeks. However, Pyrantel is also sold as a suspension (liquid form). Dosage strengths of this form range from 2.26 mg per ml onwards. Regardless of the strength, liquid / suspension form must never be given to cats and kittens without talking to your treating veterinarian.
Of the many forms of deworming meds, Pyrantel is commonly given to fight hookworm and roundworm infections in cats and kittens. This med is more effective against roundworms (known as ascarids). Pyrantel belongs to a sub-genre called pyrimidine anthelmintic meds. Kittens can also be treated with this anthelmintic; in fact, this is used as an empirical deworming med for kittens.
Side effects cats and kittens may develop
Adverse or undesired side effects are very rare among cats and kittens. However, pets with a sizable burden of hookworm or roundworm (ascarids) may experience pain in abdomen, vomiting as well as drop in appetite level. Owing to the poor absorbing capability, the drug works mostly on the infected area only. This is also a reason why the drug (and its ingredients) does not cause adverse reactions among your cats and kittens.
However, in case of an overdose – your pet may witness acute side effects like increase in respiratory cycle, sweating profusely as well as ataxia (a condition wherein the pet may find it difficult to walk about). In case of profuse sweating, you can detect sweat at the bottom of your cats’ feet. Last but not least, Pyrantel has a narrow treatment range. Your vet may prescribe other meds if your cats and kittens are down with whipworm infections and / or toxoplasma.
Disclaimer
Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.
Education: Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from New York University. Experience: 5 years of experience writing for physiotherapy and sports medicine blogs, providing expert insights on injury prevention and rehabilitation.
Exclusive 30% OFF for New Customers!
