You might have been asked to administer strongid to your cat but might have some questions about it. Read on if you’re wondering about side effects, dosage information, using it for your cat’s tapeworm or what exactly it treats in your cat.
What is Strongid?
Strongid is a brand of Pyrantel Pamoate which is used by veterinarians to treat certain types of infectious parasites in both dogs and cats. It works to either paralyse or completely eradicate the parasite by targeting their immune system.
They will then release their grip on the infected area; usually, your cat’s’ intestines. Alternative brands include Nemex, Drontal and RFD Liquid Wormer. The drug is available over the counter in America, but you should not administer it without your vet’s instructions. It is available in either the form of a solid pill or a syrupy liquid.
What is Strongid Used for?
Your cat is likely to be prescribed Strongid for roundworms or hookworms. These are parasites which can be picked up by your pet from soil which has infected faeces.
You should be aware of the symptoms of such infections because they will be damaging to the health of your pet. Roundworm, for example, causes small lesions devoid of hair. Hookworms will affect your cat’s eating habits and appearance.
They may also present symptoms such as diarrhea or constipation. These conditions may affect humans, so it is important not to give them a chance to spread.
Young children are particularly prone to picking them up, as they are transmitted via tainted soil. Young kittens are commonly born with similar internal parasites. It is advisable to consult your vet about the use of Strongid during the incipient stages of their lives.
They are prone to catching hookworms from their mum, who often find themselves the victim of dormant roundworm cysts. Pregnancy compromises a cat’s immune system and leads to re-infection. Hence, your kitten is possibly filled with worms when it is born.
As such, Strongid is used to treat young kittens. It can also be used to treat such conditions in adult pets and is done so without a huge risk of further damage to already quite enervated pets. Since kittens are so disposed to picking up parasites, it may be a good idea for you to organize a regular de-worming plan with your vet.
Even house-proud indoor cats can pick up an infection if they eat infected insects or rodents, or if they pick up worm eggs from contaminated bedding or clothing. All cat owners should be vigilant against the worm.
Strongid Side Effects
There’s only a small probability of any side effects resulting from the use of Strongid. Caution is always prudent as there are known consequences for some specific cases. If your kitten is very seriously affected and there is a high amount of worms present in her intestine, she will likely develop a bit of a bulge. This is because of her intestines reacting to the change of losing the worms.
If your pet is particularly ill, you should avoid using Strongid if there is no evidence of the cause of their illness. Also avoid use if your cat is allergic or sensitive to the drug.
Your cat’s digestion habits may be disrupted – which can present itself either by diarrhea, constipation or sickness. If the intensity of their reaction seems to be unusual, take him to the vet. Generally, your pet shouldn’t expect too much disturbance as Strongid is a rather mild medication.
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Using Strongid for Tapeworms
Tapeworms are different to other kinds of parasites such as hookworms, and they can’t be treated with Strongid. It is important to distinguish the nature of your pet’s infection. Your vet should easily be able to prescribe a suitable medication by examining some droppings.
If you are vigilant, you could discriminate between tapeworm and other sorts of infection by their distinct symptoms.
Firstly, cats will only be affected with tapeworms if they either eat an infected mouse or have fleas. Once infected, there will be little whitish markings on their poo. These will resemble small grains of rice or sesame seeds, and will be bigger than the eggs which are present in feces infected with hookworm.
You should always be careful with Strongid. It can be dangerous to cats if incorrectly administered. It is always advisable to consult a vet before you start any round of treatment.
Is One Dose Enough for My Cat?
Upon consultation with your vet, he may prescribe you Strongid for your cat. The specific dosage prescribed can vary according to individual circumstance. One dose may well be enough to end the condition.
Often, vets will propose that this initial Strongid dose should be followed up after a few weeks with another. This is the most common prescription, but it really depends on whether there are any signs of infection after treatment.
Usually, the first Strongid dose is strong enough to kill off the worms themselves, but aren’t able to get rid of the eggs as well. Thus, it important to keep an eye on the poo until you are sure that your cat is completely clean.
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How long does it take for the first dose of Strongid liquid to work in cats?
How long does Strongid stay good in the jar? What is the usual expiration date for some Strongid that has been newly acquired?
If there are no signs of diarrhea or constipation, at what age or weight should the first dose of Strongid be administered to kittens that are about 4 weeks old now?