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Praziquantel is a drug prescribed by veterinarians for the treatment of tapeworms in cats. The drug works by effectively arresting the tapeworms’ ability to hinder the cat’s digestion [1].
Praziquantel in combination with pyrantel pamoate (Drontal) also helps in removing large roundworms, and hookworms in cats. [8]
Quick Information |
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 Praziquantel |
Generic name: Praziquantel
Brand names: Droncit, Drontal FDA approved: Yes [5] Type: Anthelmintic drug Who can take it: Cats, dogs, most animals, including humans [1] [2] Availability: Veterinary prescription Available forms: Injection and tablets [6] |
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Make sure to follow the prescription of the vet. Dosage varies based on the size, weight, and medical history of your cat.
For animal tapeworm, 23 mg tablets are usually prescribed in half to cats weighing 4 lbs or less. For those weighing between 5-11 lbs, one whole tablet may be prescribed, while cats weighing more than 11 lbs may be given 1½ tablets [4].
It is usually not prescribed for kittens less than 6 weeks of age.
It starts the process of deworming after the first administration and subsequently eliminates tapeworms in their entirety within 3 weeks. This, however, depends upon the cat’s physiological characteristics, with some felines needing up to 5-6 weeks to get completely dewormed [7].
Even though the drug has not been found to cause any toxicity or serious negative effects in pregnant or nursing cats, it is always advisable to inform your vet about it [3].
Watch out for the following side-effects after administering praziquantel to your cat [1]:
If you find any of the side effects persisting, it is possible that there might have been an overdose. Immediately contact your veterinarian or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Helpline (1-888-426-4435).
