Introduction: Why Dewormers for Cats Are Essential
Worm infestations are one of the most common health issues cats face. From roundworms and tapeworms to hookworms, these parasites can harm your cat’s health and even spread to humans. That’s why choosing the right dewormer for cats is critical.
Whether your cat is an indoor-only pet or an outdoor adventurer, regular deworming is part of responsible care. Here are the 5 best dewormers for cats you should know about, along with their pros, cons, and costs.
1. Drontal Cat Deworming Tablets (Prescription)
Best for: Broad-spectrum coverage
Targets: Roundworms, hookworms, tapeworms
How it works: Contains pyrantel pamoate + praziquantel
Cost: About $5.49 per dose
Drontal is a trusted prescription option that kills multiple types of intestinal worms with just one dose. However, it’s not suitable for kittens under 8 weeks or cats under 2 pounds.
2. Safeguard (Fenbendazole)
Best for: Off-label broad-spectrum use
Targets: Roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, lungworms, giardia
Cost: ~$0.74 per dose (requires multiple doses)
Although not FDA-approved for cats, fenbendazole is widely used off-label by veterinarians. It comes in an oral suspension and is affordable, but it does not treat common tapeworms.
3. Elanco Tapeworm Dewormer Tablets
Best for: Tapeworm infestations
Targets: Tapeworms only
How it works: Contains praziquantel
Cost: ~$5.39 per dose
If your cat’s stool sample confirms tapeworms, these over-the-counter tablets are effective and widely available. One dose usually clears the infestation within 7 days.
4. Hartz UltraGuard Rid Worm Liquid Dewormer
Best for: Roundworms (budget-friendly option)
Targets: Roundworms
How it works: Piperazine citrate liquid formula
Cost: ~$0.32 per dose
This OTC liquid is affordable and easy to administer, but doses are larger (up to a teaspoon). It requires repeat treatment after 14 days and is less versatile than other dewormers.
5. Revolution or Revolution Plus (Prescription Preventative)
Best for: Monthly prevention of multiple parasites
Targets: Heartworm, roundworm, ear mites, fleas (Plus also protects against ticks)
Form: Topical
Cost: ~$24 per monthly dose
Revolution and Revolution Plus are prescription preventatives that keep cats protected year-round. They’re ideal for outdoor cats or households in tick-heavy areas.
5. Revolution or Revolution Plus (Prescription Preventative)
While pumpkin seeds, wormwood, and diatomaceous earth are sometimes suggested, there’s little scientific evidence that they effectively treat internal parasites. Relying on unproven remedies may allow infestations to worsen.
👉 For more veterinary guidance on parasite prevention, see the American Veterinary Medical Association’s parasite control recommendations.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Dewormer for Cats
Finding the right dewormer for cats depends on your pet’s lifestyle, age, and risk factors. Prescription medications like Drontal or Revolution Plus provide reliable protection, while OTC options like Elanco Tapeworm Dewormer can be useful in specific cases.
The best approach? Work with your veterinarian to create a parasite prevention plan tailored to your cat. Regular deworming keeps your feline healthy, safe, and worm-free.