The presence of tapeworms is indicated by the observance of tapeworm segments
passed in the cat's feces. Tapeworm segments are white, pinkish-white or
yellow-white in color and are similar in size and shape to flattened grains of
rice. The segments are most frequently observed lying on a freshly passed stool.
Segments may also be found on the hair around the anus of the animal or on the
animal's bedding. Cats become infected with tapeworms after eating fleas or
small mammals (rabbits, mice) which may be infected with tapeworm larvae.
Hookworms are small whitish or reddish-brown worms less than one inch in length
that live in the intestinal tract and feed on blood. Cats can become infected
with hookworms by swallowing infected larvae while grooming or when larvae from
the environment burrow through the skin. Cats infected with hookworms may have
poor physical condition, dull hair coat, and reduced body weight and diarrhea,
sometimes with the presence of dark blood.
Large roundworms are white or yellow-white strands 2-7 inches in length (similar
in size and color to smooth strings of spaghetti) that may be observed in the
cat's vomit or feces. Cats become infected with large roundworms by swallowing
infective eggs, particularly while grooming, or by ingestion of mice that may be
infected with larval stages.
Large roundworms and hookworms pass eggs in the feces of the cat that can only
be observed with the aid of a microscope.
The presence of these parasites should be confirmed through identification of
parasite eggs in the feces.
Consult your veterinarian for assistance in the diagnosis, treatment and control
of parasites.
Large roundworms and hookworms may be observed in the feces of the cat a day or
so after the cat has been treated with Drontal Tablets. The majority of
tapeworms, however, are digested and are not found in the feces after treatment.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
To assure proper dosage, weigh the
cat prior to treatment. Select the number of whole or partial tablets needed for
the cat from the following table.
Body Weight* (lbs.) | Number of Tablets |
1.5 - 1.9 | 1/4 |
2 - 3 | 1/2 |
4 - 8 | 1 |
9 - 12 | 1-1/2 |
13 - 16 | 2 |
*NOT FOR USE IN KITTENS LESS THAN ONE MONTH OF AGE OR WEIGHING LESS THAN 1.5 LBS.
Drontal Tablets may be given directly by mouth or offered in a small amount of food. Do not withhold food from the cat prior to or after treatment.
EFFICACY:
A total of 93 cats with naturally
acquired parasite infections were included in two well-controlled laboratory
studies to establish the efficacy of Drontal Tablets. In addition, 85 cats and
kittens of various sizes, ages and breeds were included in clinical field
studies conducted at six veterinary clinics at different geographic locations
throughout the United States. Data indicate 98% of the cats were completely
cleared of parasite infections within 7 days of treatment. These studies
demonstrated Drontal Tablets are safe and efficacious for the removal of the
parasite species indicated on the label when used as directed.
SAFETY:
Cats treated with 10 times the
highest recommended Drontal Tablet dosage during safety studies showed signs
of vomiting and salivation without other adverse effects. Eighty-three of 85
cats treated with the recommended dosages of Drontal Tablets in a clinical
field study did not exhibit any drug related side effects. A temporary loss of
appetite was reported for one cat and transient loose stools were observed in a
second cat.
RETREATMENT:
Steps should be taken to
prevent parasite infections, otherwise retreatment will be necessary.
Tapeworms transmitted by fleas will likely reoccur unless measures are taken to
control fleas. Flea control procedures must include insecticide treatment of the
cat's environment (i.e. bedding and resting areas) as well as direct treatment
of the cat with dips, powders, sprays or other approved insecticides.
Roundworms and hookworms are controlled in cats by maintaining an environment
free of infective eggs and larvae. Feces and soiled litter should be removed on
a daily basis to prevent build-up of eggs and larvae in the environment.
Certain parasites such as tapeworms and large roundworms are transmitted to the
cat after they eat infected rodents. Controlling the predatory habits of cats,
i.e., catching and eating rodents, will prevent these parasite infections.
Cats maintained under conditions of constant exposure to parasite infections
should have a follow-up fecal exam within 2 to 4 weeks after the first
treatment.
If reinfection with tapeworms, hookworms or large roundworms occurs, treatment
with Drontal Tablets may be repeated.
WARNING:
KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
Consult your veterinarian before administering to sick or pregnant animals.
